Metaphysics of Maya - Part -6 : Significance of Lalitha Sahasranamam

Welcome to my blog site .

I will walk you through this blog with an important agenda of explaining the significance of Lalitha Sahasranamavali. I wish to share with you a video of the Abishekam performed on the idol of Lalitha Parameswari at Thirumeeyachur temple, as a prelude. Please click on the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zh8S78DLUn8

The story goes that Saint Agastya was not fully satisfied with all his knowledge and felt something missing. He approached Lord Hayagriva, the avatar of Vishnu and begged him to make him to impart complete knowledge. Lord Hayagriva taught Saint Agasthya the balancing knowledge through Lalitha Sahasranama and Agasthya immediately felt happy and fulfilled. 

Puranam SriPuram iva Shakthynam Lalitha Thatha 

SriVidhyo Upasakanam Cha Thatha Deva Paraha Shivaha 

Thatha Nama Sahasreshu Paramethath Prakirthitham 

Yathasya patanath Devi Priyathe Lalithambika

Meaning :

Sri Puram is the greatest of all the cities, Sri Vidya is the greatest of all Upasanas, Sri Lalithamba & Lord ParaShiva are the greatest of all the deities. Sri Lalitha Sahasranamam is the greatest of all the Keerthanam or songs, reading which Laitha Devi is immensely pleased. 

Shringeri Jagatguru Shankaracharya said, “Our ancestors attained welfare by praising the Paramatma with several names. Of those names, the Sahasranamas are very well known. Of those Sahasranamas, Lalita Sahasranama is something special. The Lalita Sahasranama describes the Paradevata’s saguna roopa (aspect with form), the ways of worshipping her, the manner in which she blesses people and the broad enunciation of Vedantic truths. In particular the Advaita siddhanta (monism) which Sri Sankara Bhagavatpada taught, has been clearly stated in many places in Lalita Sahasranama”. 

Lalitha sahasranama is considered the sacred and the best amongst the various sahasranama for many deities. The name Lalitha is considered supreme and unique as it represents supreme Mother. Brahmanda Purana describes in the 36^th chapter of Lalithopakyanam that Lord Hayagriva (Vishnu) taught this verse to Sage Agastya. Hayagriva is said to have informed Agastya that reciting this verse will provide the devotee with all spiritual as well as material benefits. The temple at Thirumeyachur, near Kumbakonam, is said to be where Agastya was initiated into this sahasranama.

As directed by Lalitha Devi, this Sahasranama was developed and recited by Devi’s entourage by eight Vak devis, (Vasini, Kameshwari, Aruna, Vimala, Jayinee, Modhinee, Sarveshwari and Koulini), who reside in the seventh aavarana of Sri Chakram. Though Lalitha Devi has crores of names, the Vak devatas selected these 1000 names as special ones, by reciting which Lalitha devi gets pleased immediately. The name Lalitha appears as the 1000^th nama, though it is the most important of all. There is no repetition of names as found in Sahasranama of other deities. 

It contains secrets of Sri Chakra and its mantras. No doubt, by reciting these 1000 namas, the devotee gets closer to Lalitha Devi. For best results, one should perform chakra Pooja, recite Panchdasakshari mantra and then recite the 1000 namas. Those who are unable to perform chakra Pooja and/or Panchadasakshari mantra can still get benefited by reciting only the 1000 namas.  

This stotram of 1000 namas of Devi belongs to Yantra Shastra as it vividly describes Sri Chakram and it also becomes Tantra Shastra, when it describes body chakras. 

Story of Sri Lalitha Devi

Do you know that the story of Lalitha Parameshwari is closely linked with the birth of Lord Shanmuga? The story goes as follows as found in Hindupedia:

"Paramashiva is one of the trinity of Hindu pantheons, who is in charge of destruction and recreation. He married Sathi, the daughter of Daksha. Daksha and Paramashiva were not getting on well and consequently he did not invite Paramashiva for one of the great fire sacrifices that he conducted. However Sathi went to attend the function in spite of Paramashiva’s protest. Daksha insulted her husband and she jumped in to the fire and ended her life. Consequently at the behest of Paramashiva Daksha was killed and later given life with a goat’s head. However this incident upset Paramashiva and he entered into deep meditation. Sathi took birth as the daughter of the mountain (Parvathy) Himalayas and started doing penance on Shiva for getting him as her husband. The devas faced a very great enemy in Sura Padma who had a boon that he could be killed only by a son of Shiva and Parvathy. So to wake Shiva from his deep meditation the devas deputed Manmatha, the God of love to shoot his flower arrows at Paramashiva. Manmatha was full of ego that no one can escape his spell. Paramashiva woke up and opened his third eye and burnt the God of love into ashes. 

Due to the fierce nature of Lord Shiva's fire, the ashes turned into Bhandasura, full of ego, who made all the world impotent and ruled from the city called Shonitha pura. The entire creation came to a stand still. He started troubling the devas. The devas then sought the advice of Sage Narada who advised them to conduct a fire sacrifice and pray to Divine Mother. From the sacrificial fire, called Chidagni, rose the beautiful Goddess Sri Lalitha Tripura Sundari. 

The devas prayed to her to destroy Bhandasura and save them all. When Devi prepared for a war with Bandasura, She was accompanied by the powers called Anima, Mahima etc, Brahmi, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Mahendri, Chamundi, Maha Lakshmi, Nitya Devaths and Avarna Devathas who occupy the Sri Chakra. While Sampatkari devi was the captain of the elephant regiment, Aswarooda devi was the captain of the cavalry. The army was commanded by Dhandini riding on the Charriot called Giri Chakra, assisted by Manthrini riding on the chariot called Geya Chakra. Jwala malini protected the army by creating a fire ring around it. ParaShakthi rode in the centre, on the chariot of Sri Chakra. Nithya Devi destroyed a large chunk of Bandasura’s armies, Bala Devi killed the son of Bandasura, and Manthrini and Dhandini killed his brothers called Vishanga and Vishukra. When the Asuras created blockade for the marching army, Sri Lalitha Tripura Sundari created Lord Ganesha with the help of Kameshwara to remove the blockade. Then Bandasura re-created  all the asuras -  Hiranyaksha, Hiranya Kasipu and Ravana. 

Devi then re-created the ten avatars of Vishnu and destroyedall of them. She killed enemies’ army using Pasupathastra and killed Bandasura with Kameshwarasthra. The gods then praised her. She  recreated Manmatha for the good of the world." 

Manmatha this time aimed well at Lord Shiva and Lord Shanmuga was born. 

The overall significance is that Bandhasura (all attachments) arose out of Manmatha (Kaamaa or desires) and was destroyed by Devi using Sri Chakra formation. By performing the Sri Chakra pooja or Devi worship in this form, one can win over the cycle of birth and death. 

Goddess Sri Lalitha is accorded the prime place in all Hindu Texts as She is the origin of divinity, the Devine Mother. 

Thirumeeyachur near Mayiladudurai in Tamil Nadu assumes an important place in housing Goddess Lalith’s temple, where the Sun God performed special puja to Her. This temple is more than 1000 years old. Lord Hyagriva revealed that chanting the sacred names of the Goddess Lalitha at the sanctified spot of Thirumeeyachoor would bestow innumerable benefits to the devotee.

Goddess Lalithai came out of Chitagni kunda, the sacred fire, while offering homam, to destroy demon Bandasura. After the war, Lord Shiva directed Her to go to Thirumeeyachoor and calm down. Goddess Lalitha then ordered Vasinyathi Vag Devatas to recite Lalitha Sahasranama. This sloka is  sung in praise of Her valour and pleases the Goddess when repeatedly recited.

Lalitha Sahasranama, while focusing on recitation of thousand names of the Goddess, explains the significance of Her manifestation. This is found in “Brahmaandapuranam”, which was explained by Hayagriva to saint Agasthya.

The Sahasranama answers many questions, such as the following: - 

Where from She emanated? “Chidhagnikunda sambootha” – She came out of the homa kunta, when Devendra along with his entourage was performing yagna, seeking Her favour to protect them from Bandasura.

Why She manifested - “Deva karya samudhyata” – She came to rescue Devas from Bhandasura.

How did She equip Her army? – “Bhandasura vadodhyukta Sakthi sena samanvitha” – with a view to slay the Asura, She was accompanied by the army of many Sakthis. Each Divinity like Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma et all gave Her their weapons to destroy the demon.

“Bandha” – means bonding. The esoteric meaning is that She removes us from the Maya of bond in our lives through Her other Sakthis, which lie latent in us. When we decide to fight it out, She sends forth these army of Sakthis to help us get over it.

Who else were there in Her army? - Her army consisted of elephants and horses. Horses normally refer to our five senses and the mind, which are controlled by Her assistant “Sampathkari”, the one who pulls the veil of Maya around us, immersing us in false happiness.

Sri Suktham, a praise on Goddess Lakshmi, clearly mentions this array of army in its verses. It makes no difference between Sri Devi and Shree Lakshmi as they are one and the same Sakthi.

“Ashvapoorvaaṃ ratha madhyaaṃ hasti naada prabodhineem”

Devi is surrounded by her army of horses (ashva) in the front (poorva), chariots (ratha) in the centre (madya), followed by elephants (hasti) trumpeting (nada). 

Devi used three chariots in the war. “Chakraraja ratha” is the chariot made of Srichakram itself and was used by Devi Herself seated on it. “Geyachakra ratha” was used by Her Minister, Mantrini, which is the vak devi or Shyamala Devi. “Girichakra Ratha” was used by Senathipathi (dandanatha), the head of army, the Vaaraahi Devi. 

There are other instances in the text which confirm that Devi is seated on the Sri Chakra. “Jwalaamaalinikaakshipta vahnipraahaaraa madhyaka” – She is seated on the central part of the palace made of fire (jwala), referring to the five fire triangles of Sakthi pointing downwards, again surrounded by “Vahniprahaaraa” or the four surrounding (prahaaraa) triangles of Lord Shiva pointing upwards. She is Bhindu mandala vaasini – residing in the central Bindhu in the Sri Chakra.

Bramaandapuraana describes that “Bhandaputras”, the two sons of Bhadasura, namely, Visukra and Visanga, (meaning ego & attachments), were destroyed first by Baalaa Thripurasundari (Bhanda puthra vadhokyuktha baalaa vikrama nanditha).

Devi rode in Her Sri Chakra Ratha, surrounded by nine warrior goddesses, meaning the nine aavaranaas of Sri Chakra. The Brahmaandapuranam completely describes the aavarana deities of the Sri Chakra in detail including their names. All these perfectly matches with all the Sri Chakram texts. 

The war continued for only four days and the detailed description of the events in these four days have deep esoteric meanings. The second day saw the birth of Ganeshwara, (Kameshwara mukhaloka kalpitha sri ganeswara) who also joined the war. On the fourth day, Devi slays Bhandasura using “Mahakaameswarasta” (kaameswarastra nirdagdhasa bhandasura sainika).

Lalitha Sahasranama is full of explanation on the six body chakras, namely, Muladhara (Muladharaambhujarudha), 

Svadhisthana (Svadhisthanaam bhujagata), 

Manipura (Manipuraabhja nilaya), 

Anahata (Anahataabja nilaya), 

Visuddhi (visuddhi chakra nilaya), 

Ajna Chakra (ajna chakraantaraalastha) and the higher chakra, 

Sahasrara (sahasra dala padmastha). 

Further, Lalitha Sahasranama explains who are the presiding deities of these chakras (Sakinyambha, Kakini-rupadharini, Lakinyambha, Rakinyambha, Dakiniswari, Yakinyambha), the weapons that they carry, their favourite food and which part of the body they control (Asthisamanvitha- bones; Medonishta- fat; Mamsanishta- flesh; Rudhirasamsthitha – blood; Tvakstha – skin; Majjasamstha- bone marrow and Suklasamsthitha – semen) etc.

Lalitha Sahasranama thus explains the fact that the formation of Sri Chakra led to the formation of six body chakras. In a way, it gives a hint on creation of the universe by Devi through various tattvas. While Sri Chakra explains the expansion of the Universe from Bindhu as a dot, the body chakras explain how the tattvas condensed gradually from gas to a liquid and then to solid state.

Bhaskararaya’s bhashyam (detailed explanation) on Lalitha Sahasranama written in the year 1730 is considered an authentic text. There are several other concepts spelt out in this Sahasranama, such as: Shiva, Sakthi and Vishnu are all one and same. “Shiva-saktyikya rupini” indicates Shiva and Sakthi are one and the same. Further, in many places, it is indicated that Sakthi and Vishnu are also no different from each other. She is Narayanee, Govinda rupini, Mukunda, Vaishnavi, Vishnu rupini. She is again mentioned as Padmanabha Sahodhari – Vishnu’s Sister.

Without further deliberations, let us now explore word by word into what this Sahasranama is trying to convey to us:

Lalitha Sahasranama - Meaning

Recital of Lalitha Sahasranama Sthothram.

Use the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTGxuFjzYt0

This text describes Her physical form in detail, enabling the devotees to clearly visualise Her in their minds. Reciting Her 1000 names with or without knowing its meaning is bound to be beneficial; however, it helps to visualise and pray better, if one understands whom they are praying to and what they can ask for. Her grace and boundless compassion for all beings needs to be understood fully to have an effective prayer.

Let us now start with Dhyaana slogam. There are four slogams in this part. First one is said to have been recited by the Vak Devis; second by Duttatreya; third by unknown entity and fourth by Sri Adi Sankara. In all the four Dyana shloka, She is described as in Red complexion, indicating She is very compassionate as Mother deity. 

DHYANA SLOKA

Sinduraruna vigraham tri nayanaam maanikya mauli sphurat 

Taraa naayaka sekharaam smita mukhim aapina vakshoruham 

Paanibhyaam ali purna ratna chashakam raktotpalam bibrathim 

Saumyaam ratna ghatastha raktha charanaam dhyayet paramambikam. 

She has a red complexion, with three eyes, adorned with a crown made of red rubies, decorated with the crescent moon. She has a smiling face and is easily approachable. She holds in Her hands a lotus flower and a cup filled with nectar,  which feed all Her devotees. Let us surrender at Her Lotus feet.

Arunaam karuna tharangithaakshim 

Drita paasaankusha pushpa bhaana chaapaam 

Animaathi bhiraavruthaam mayookhai 

Ahamithyeva vibhaavaye bhavaanim. 

She is Bhavani, red in colour, compassion flowing from Her eyes, holding bow, arrows, noose and goad. She is surrounded by Anima and other sakthi devatas. I meditate upon you, Mother Bhavani.

Dhyaye padmaasanastham vikasita vadanaam padma patraayatakshim 

Hemaabhaam pitavastraam kara kalita lasad hema padmaam varaangim 

Sarvaalankaara yuktam satatamabhayadaam bhakta namram bhavaanim 

Srividyaam santamurthim sakala suranuthaam sarva sampat pradaatrim.

Let us meditate on Her as Bhavani, seated on a lotus flower, with a smiling composition, sporting extended eyes like the petals of the lotus flower. She is dressed in yellow, glowing in a golden hue, holding a golden lotus flower, decorated with all jewels. She is always kind and compassionate to Her devotees, protecting them in all respects. She is Sri Vidhya, always peaceful, worshipped by all the gods and devas and bestows all wealth to the devotees. 

Sakumkuma vilepanam alika chumbi kasturikaam 

Samanda hasitekshanaam sasara chaapa paasaankusaam 

Asesha jana mohinim aruna malya bhushaambaraam 

Japaa kusuma bhaasuraam japavidhau smared ambikaam. 

She is fully immersed in kumkumam and musk, that attracts bees. Her eyes sport a glancing smile. She holds in Her hands, a bow, arrows, noose and goad and attracts all people. She is adorned with reddish garlands, jewels and is worshipped with hibiscus flowers. Let us meditate on Her.

Main Slokam

The first three names imply her three main functions of creation, protection and destruction. 

Sri Mata, the first name implies She is the creator of all beings. 

Sri Maharagni indicates She is the unquestioned Queen of all worlds and protects them all. 

Srimath Simhanaeswari indicates that She is the occupier of the Kingdom and punishes those who don’t follow the moral rules.

Chidhagnikunda sambhootha – She rose from the Fire called “Chidhagni”, created by all devatas to gain Her favour and protect them from Bhandasura. (Bhandasura rose from the ashes of Manmatha, when Lord Shiva burnt him to ashes for spoiling His tapas). Hence Her purpose was “Devakarya samudhyatha”- She came out of the fire to protect devas.

When She came out of Agni (Fire), She was shining with the brilliance of 1000s of Suns. Hence, She is “Udhyath Bhanu Sahasraabha”. It also indicates that She is of crimson red colour of the rising Sun. 

Devi has three roopams or bodies: Sthoolam (physical body), Sookshmam (mantram) and Param (beyond description). The Sahasranamam deals with each one at a time. It goes on to describe Her physical body first.

She has four hands – “Chaturbahu samanvitha”.

She holds certain weapons in Her hands as follows:

“Ragaswaroopa paasathya” – She holds a rope (Pasam) to control kama or attachment (raga), in Her lower left arm. 

“Krodhakarangkulojwala” – She holds a shining “Angusam”, to control Anger (Krodha) in Her lower right arm. 

“Manorupekshu gothanda”- She holds a sugarcane bow, to control the mind (Mano) in Her upper left arm.

“Pancha thanmathra sayaka” – She holds five arrows made of fragrant flowers, (white lotus, blue lotus, mango flower, jasmine and ashoka flower). They represent Pancha thanmathras – sabda (sound), sparsha (touch), roopam (shape), rasam (taste) and gandha (smell). 

It can be observed that these weapons also belong to Manmatha and it is implicit that Devi functions as Maya to create delusion in all our minds, assuming the functions of Manmatha. With these five arrows, She creates delusions such as unmadha (infatuation), tapana (burning with desire), shoshana (draining of energy), sthambhana (arresting the senses) and sammohana (destruction).

She makes all the being in the Universe (Bramhanda) get completely immersed in Her Redness or maya – “Nijaaruna prabha poora majjat Brahmanda mandala.”

Her hair is adorned with scented flowers such as Champakam, Ashokam, Punnakam, Sowgandhikam – “Champakasokapunnaka sowghandhika lasathkasa”.

Further stanzas describe Her physical features from face down to Her feet. Normally, any deity is described from feet upwards (paadadhi kesam), whereas, Lalitha Devi is described face downwards (kesaadhi paadam). This is because, the descriptions follow Her raising up from the Agni. The crown shows up first. In the following lines, you can imagine Her rising up the Holy fire slowly as the description of Her progresses.

Her crown is decorated with rare red gems (Kuruvintha mani or Padmaragam) – Kuruvindhamanichreni kanathkoteera manditha” and showers brilliant illuminations all around.

Her forehead shines like the moon on the eighth day (Half-moon on Ashtami day)- “Ashtami chandra vibraja thaligasthala sobhitha”.

Her face is adorned with Kasthuri tilakam (kumkum), which looks like the defect on the moon’s surface – “Muka chanrda kalangapa mruganabhi viseshaka”.

Her eye brows look like the festoon (thoranam) on the entrance arch of Her Holy palace. Her face is likened to a house – “Vadhanasmara maangalya griha thorana sillika”.

Her eyes are moving and rolling fast like a fish. She takes care of all Her devotees like a fish would look after its babies, just by its looks. - “Vakthra Lakshmi parivaha challan meenabha lochana”.

Her nose looks like fresh champaka flower – “Nava champaka pushpapa nasa dhanda viraajitha”. 

Her nose is adorned with powerful and radiating Manikkyam gems which look like bright stars – “Thara ghandi thiraskari nasa abharana paasura”.

Her ears look like Kadamba flower – “Kadamba manjari kluruptha karna poora manohara”. 

Her ears are adorned with “Thaadangam leaves”, decorated with Surya mandala and Chandra mandala – “Thaadanga yugalibhootha thapanodupa mandala”.

Her cheeks shine like spotless mirrors made of padmaraga gems – “Padmaragha chiladharsa paripali kapolapoohu.”

Her lips shine like fresh red coral gems – “Nava vithruma bimbha Shri nyakkari radhanachada.”

Made up of Sudda Vidhya, Her shining teeth line up beautifully- “Suddha vidhyankurakara dwija bangkthi thwayojwala.” Suddha Vidhya refers to Shodasakshari mantram of 16 syllables. Each row of Her 16 teeth are thus described.

She always chews beetal leaves, whose fragrance attracts all the devatas from the ten directions -“Karpoora veetika modha samaakarsha dhigandhara”. “Karpoora veetika” is a special preparation of yelam, lavangam, karpoora kasthuri, kesaram, jadhiphala leaf, pooghai, choornai etc. It spreads such a fragrance that all devatas eagerly wait for Her to spit it out so that they can have their share of prasad. Kalidasa is said to have tasted it to become a great poet.

The words spoken by Devi must obviously be of high quality and becomes supremely divine melody. It is so sweet that She even beats the sound emanating from the lovely Veena of Saraswathi Devi, called Kachabhi – “Nija sallabha madhurya vinir parsitha kachabhi.”  Veena is considered a divine instrument. Human body is said to be a divine Veena, with its spinal chord resembling the instrument. Both have 24 parts, vertebrae or frets, and progressively narrow down in width. While nada flows from Muladhara to Sahasrara, the pitch goes up steadily, reaching a crescendo. These 24 frets are equivalent to 24 letters of Gayathri mantra. The four strings of veena are the four vedas and the three side strings are the three gunas and represent shrishti, sthithi and laya. Creation of music is thus comparable to universal creation.  Veena recital is thus compared to recital of Gayathri mantra. Apart from Kachchapi veena of Saraswathi, other divine Veenas are Rudra Veena of Lord Shiva, Raavana Veena, Mahathi veena of Narada, Bruhathi veena of Visvavasu, Kalavati veena of Tumbhuru, Parivadhini veena of Bhudda etc. 

Her gracious smile, emanating out of the corner of Her mouth, engulfs the mind of Lord Shiva, as Kameswara - “Mandhasmitha Prabhapoora majjath kamesa maanasa”. 

Her chin is of incomparable beauty – “Anaakalitha saadhruschya sipuka shri viraajitha.”

Devi continues to arise from the Sidhagni fire. After so describing Her lovely face, now Her neck becomes visible, which is adorned with the mangalya suthram tied by Kameswara during their wedding – “Kamesa bhaktha mangalya suthra sobhitha ghandhara.”

Her four arms and shoulders become now visible and are decorated with golden jewellery –“Kanaga angatha keyura kamaneeya bujanvitha”.  

She wears necklaces made of Rathna and pearl (muthu) gems, dancing (lola) on Her neck – Rathna kraiveya chinthaaka lola mukthaa  palaanvitha”.

Her bosom attracts and reflects the love offered by Kameswara – “Kameswara prema rathna mani prathipana sthana.”

The fine line of hairs (romam) from Her naval going upwards to Her chest looks like creepers emanating from the fields, carrying fruits above – “Thapyalavala romali latha pala kusathvayee.”

Her hip becomes visible now and is so small beyond observation that one would recognise that there is a hip only by looking at the fine line of hairs in the middle– “Lakshya roma latha tharatha samunneya madhyama”.

“Samudhriga Lakshanam” (which deals with the definition of beauty) spells out that a woman should have three folds each on her forehead, neck and naval regions. Devi’s folds follow this definition in full. The central three folds (thrivali or valithraya) look as if they are the supporting structures for Devi’s narrow hipline, since it has to carry her upper body - “Sthana bhara thalan madhya patta bhandha valithraya.”

She wears a crimson red saree, resembling the colour of the rising sun, covering Her hip – “Arunaruna Kousumbha vasthra pasvath katithadi.”

She wears an “Odyannam” (belt) jewel in Her hips, made of red gems (Rathnam) and bells – “Rathna kingkinika ramya rasanathama bhooshitha.” 

Her full beauty is known only to Kameswara – “Kamesagnatha sowbhakya marthavoruthvayan vitha.”

Her knee caps look like crowns made of Manikya gem – “Manikya makutakara janithvaya virajitha”. 

Her legs shine like Manmatha’s clothings decorated with glow worms – “Indhrakopa parikshipta smara thoonapa jankika.” 

She has fleshy heels – “Koota kulpa”. 

Her hind legs are curved like the hood of tortoise – “Koorma brushta jayishnu prapathanvitha”.

Her nails (Nakam) radiate brightness all around, dispelling darkness (Thamo guna) in our minds – “Nakathi samachanna namajjana thamoguna.” 

Her two feet (patham) are so charming that they beat Lotus flowers in all respects – “Pathathvaya prapajala parakrutha saroruha”. 

She wears anklets (“golusu”) in Her feet, the bells from which emit sweet sounds – “Chinjana mani manjeera manditha shri padaambhuja”.

She has a gait like a swan – “Maraali mantha ghamana”.

In all, She is the embodiment of beauty – “Maha Lavanya sevathihi”.

She is all in red colour – “Sarva aaruna”.

She is defect less in all respects – “Anavathyangi.”

She is dressed up in all jewels – “Sarva Aabharana Bhooshitha”.

All above lines have so far described the physical beauty of Devi.

Further few lines herein after describe Devi’s place of residence.

She sits on the left lap of Her Consort, Lord Kameswara; She is known as Sivakama Sundari – “Sivakameswarangastha”. She has conquered Her husband – “Shivaa Swaatheena vallabha”.

She is the Queen of Sri Nagaram on top of Mount Meru - “Sumeru Madhya sringastha Sriman nagara nayika”. Sriman nagam is same as Sri Chakram.

Her palace is made of “Chinthamani” stones, which has the power to grant all wishes – “Chinthamani grihannastha”.

Inside this palace, She has Her special throne (simha aasana) which is supported by five deities, Brahma, Vishnu, Rudhra, Esanan and Sadashiva as its legs- “Pancha brahma asana sthitha”. 

There is a forest of lotus flowers around the palace on top of Maha Meru – “Maha Padmaadavi samstha”. The place also has plenty of Kadamba trees – “Kadamba vana vaasini”. She is in the midst of ocean of nectar – “Sudha sagara madhyastha”.

She has very beautiful eyes and sanctions all that is desired – “Kamaakshi Kamadhayini”.

In some more stanzas, the war scene between Devi and Bhandasura is described. Manmatha, the cupid,  was full of ego that he could easily aim his arrows on any one and make them fall in love. However, his ego did not work with Lord Shiva and he was burnt down by the Lord. Manmatha’s ego still did not vanish but took the shape of an Asura called Bhandasura. He became uncontrollable and Devi had to put him to rest and regain Manmatha back, devoid of Ego. This has a subtle message that we should burn down our ego for our own welfare.

Deities including Devas, Rishis and their armies (Deva rishi gana) continuously prayed to Her to get rid of Bhandasura and save them all. This event (sambhava) is portrayed as – “Deva rishi gana sangatha sthooyamaanaathma sambhava”.

She has an army of various sakthi deities, which is capable of decimating the enemy: “Bhandaasura Vadhodyukta sakthi sena samanvidha.”

Devi’s army of elephants is controlled by a sakthi called Sampathkari. These army of elephants (sindoora) and their Chief always are ready, waiting for Her command – “Sampathkari sa maarooda sindhoora vraja sevitha”. Devi controls all these elephants through the “angusam” held in Her hand. ‘Sampatkari’ means blissful composition of mind.                                

A sakthi called Aswaarooda controls Devi’s army of horses – “Aswaarooda adhishtida aswa koti koti piravrutha”. Devi controls this army of crores of Horses through Her weapon “Pasa”. Horses here refer to our senses.

Devi is surrounded by the army Chiefs called Manthrini, Dhandini / Vaaraahi. Manthrini is the Minister who takes care of Devi’s Kingdom – “Manthrinisyasya rajya dhoohu”.

Devi’s chariot is called Chakra Raja Ratham. This is same as Sri Chakram. Devi is seated on this chariot will all weapons – “Chakra raja ratharooda sarva aayutha parishkrutha”.

She is surrounded by the inseparables Manthrini and Dhandini (or Vaarahi) sakthis. While Manthrini’s Chariot is called Geya Chakra ratham, that of Dhandini is called “Kiri Chakra Ratham”. “Kiri” also means varaham or boar. 

“Geya chakra ratha rooda Manthini parisevitha; Kiri chakra ratharooda dhanda natha puraskrutha”.

Devi’s entire army is protected by a sakthi called Jwala malini. She forms a Agni (vanhi) enclosure (prakaram) around Devi’s army to protect them from demon Bhandasura’s darkness, by lighting up through her flames (jwala). Devi is in the centre of it all - “Jwala malini kakshiptha vanhi prakara madhyaka”. 

This is same as the five downward triangles representing Devi (jwala malini) and four upward triangles of Shiva (vanhi prakara) in Sri Chakra, enveloping the Bhindu at the center. Shiva represents Fire. Chakra raja refers to Sri Chakram. By constantly reciting the right mantra and worshipping Sri Chakra, we can get over the veil imposed by our own thoughts and actions.

Devi is happy that Her army of sakthis is ready to destroy Bhandsura’s army – “Bhanda sainya vadhodyuktha sakthi vikrama harshitha”. 

Devi is happy that Her Nithya sakthis have doubled up to meet the enemy. Nithya   refers to the fifteen daily thithi devatas of the moon – “Nithya parakramadobha nireekshana samudhsukha”.

Devi is happy that Her 9-year-old daughter, Bala Thripura Sundari, destroyed the sons of Bhandasura – “Bhanda puthra vadhodyuktha Bala vikrama nandhitha”.

Devi is happy that Manthrini sakthi killed demon called Vishanga – “Manthrini ambha virachitha vishanga vadha dhoshitha”.  It shows the power of Sri Vidhya  mantram in dispelling darkness.

Devi is happy to have Vaarahi, who defeated demon Vishukran – “Vishukra prana harana vaaraahi veerya nandhitha”.

At one point of time in the war, Devi’s forces could not brake the barrier created by the enemy and they could not proceed further. Devi then created Lord Ganesha, just by Her glance at Lord Shiva- “Kameswara mukaloka kalpitha Sri Ganeswara”. 

Ganesha then went on to brake the shield called “Vigna yanthra” created by the enemy, enabling Devi’s army to proceed further – “Maha Ganesa nir bhinna vigna yanthra praharshitha”. Ganesa is known as Vigneswara, the remover of all obstacles.

Devi destroyed all the weapons (asthra & sasthra) of Bhandasura–                   

“Bhandasurendra nirmuktha sasthra prathya asthra varshini”. Sasthra is that weapon always held in hand like a sword, whereas asthra is the one which is held at the back and thrown at the enemies, like arrows, spears etc.

Devi then (re)created the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu from Her ten finger nails to counter Bhandasura who showered “sarva asura asthram”, which created havoc by recreating great asura kings like Ravana, Bali, Hiranyakshan etc – “Karanguli naga uthpanna Narayana dasa kruthihi”.

Devi then used the powerful weapon, Pasupathasthram of Lord Shiva (Pasu pathi) to burn down the entire army of Bhandasura in one go- “Maha Pasupatha asthra agni nirthagtha asura sainika”.

Devi finally used more powerful weapon, Kameswara Asthram of Lord Kameswara and completely destroyed both Bhandasura and his city called Sunya – “Kameswara asthra nirdhaktha sa Bhandasura Sunyaka”.

All the Devas, including Brahma, Indra were extremely happy and celebrated the total destruction of Bhandasura and praised Devi for this act “Bramhobendra mahendradhi deva samsthutha vaibhava”.

As prayed by all Devas, She then brought back Manmatha (Kama), who was burnt down by Lord Shiva (Hara) into life. After all, Manmatha was Her obedient servant in casting a veil (Maya) over Her creations. She brought back Manmatha and united him with his wife, Rathi and hence She is considered the Sanjeeva medicine (Aushad) which gives life to the dead – “Hara nethra agni samthaktha kama sanjeevad aushadhihi.”

This completes the description of Devi’s Sthoola (Physical Body) Swaroopam. Further stanzas describe Devi’s Sukshma (Manthra) Swaroopam.

Panchadasaakshari (fifteen lettered mantra) is the moola manthra for Devi, which goes as follow:

Ka, E, Aie, La, Hreem, Ha, Sa, Ka, Ha, La, Hreem, Sa, Ka, La, Hreem.

Out of this fifteen letters, the first five letters form the Vakbhava kootam, equivalent to Devi’s face and hence it is the primary mantra”- Srimad vakbhava kootaika swaroopa muka pankaja.”

The next six letters form the mid portion from Devi’s neck down to Her hip and is called Madhya kootam – “Kandathas kadiparyantha madhya kootas swaroopini”.

The last four letters form Devi’s body below hip level and is called sakthi kootam – “Sakthi kootaika thapanna kadyatho bhagadharini.”

The above three mantras form the moola mantra of Devi as they fully represent Devi Herself as explained above – “Moola manthraathmika.”

She thus has these three mantras as Her Sukshma body – “Moola koota thraya kalebhara.” 

Devi is also residing within our body in sukshma swaroopam in the form of Kundalini, as mentioned in Yoga Sastras. The following stanzas explain this concept. We now move from Manthra to tantra swaroopam.

She sleeps in the mooladhara chakra and when aroused through yoga practices, She climbs up the shushumna nadi and rises up to sahasrara chakra, where She drinks the Amrutham or netor, known as kulamrutham, and comes back again to mooladhara and rests there. – “Kulamruthaika rasika”. 

The next stanza “kula sangetha Palini” indicates that She protects Her pooja practices from landing in wrong hands. She can be fully understood only through a guru. Her Sri vidhya upasana or practices are to be kept as secret.

Kulangana, Kulandhastha, Koulini, Kulayogini, Akula, Samayanthastha, Samayacharathathpara – all these are names associated with sukshma swaroopam or subtle body. Kula refers to Kundalini Sakthi resting in Mooladhra, while Akula refers to same Sakthi when it reaches Sahasrara chakram and merges with Shiva. ‘Angana’ refers to a chaste woman. ‘Kula’ refers to lotus in Muladhara and ‘akula’ refers to lotus at sahasrara. Koula is the union of Siva and Sakthi, when She is referred to as ‘Koulini’.

We have already dealt with in other chapters on Yanthra and Tantra on how Lalitha Sahasranama vivdly describes the Sri Chakra as well as body chakras. 

“Muladharaikanilaya” – She resides in muladhara. “Brahma grandhi vibhedini” – She breaks Brahma knot in Muladhara to climb up.

“Manipurantha ruthitha” – She reaches Manipurachakra and brakes the Vishnu knot – “Vishnu grandhi vibhedini”.

“Ajna chakraantharalastha” – She reaches Ajna Chakra and brakes the Rudhra knot there – “Rudhra granthi vibhedini”

“Sahasrara ambhuja ruda” – She reaches Sahasrara chakram having thousand lotus petals. When She reaches there, there is a flow of Amrutham or nector, which She enjoys – “Sudha saarabhi varshini”.

“Thadillatha sama richihi” – She reaches Sahasrara from Muladhara at lightning speed and hence She is like lightning (Thadilla). 

“Shad chakra upari samsthitha” – She thus settles in Sahasrara above the six body chakras.

“Maha aasakthihi” – She enjoys being in Sahasrara with Lord Shiva.

“Kundalini” – She then goes back to Muladhara to rest as Kundalini sakthi.

“Bhisa thanthu thaneeyasi” – Her hips are like fine thread inside lotus stem.

“Bhavaani” – Bhavasya devasya pathni – Wife of Bhava (Lord Shiva).

The praise of Devi then includes many ways of how She can be reached by devotees.

“Bhaavanagamya” – She can be reached through Bhaavana, which relates to Mantra route.

“Bhava aranya gutarika” – She helps devotees in crossing the forest of life through Her Axe (Gutarika).

Bhadra priya – She likes things which are auspicious.

Bhadra murthi – personification of auspiciousness.

Bhaktha soubhakya dhayini – grants all boons to devotees.

Bhakthi priya -  likes devotion.

Bhakthi gamya – can be reached through devotion.

Bhakthi vaschya – can be controlled by devotees through devotion.

Bhaya paha – removes fear.

Sambhavi – Consort of Sambhu (Shiva)

Sharada rathya – worshipped by Goddess Saraswathi 

Sarvaani – Sarvasya devasya pathni – wife of Sarva (Shiva)

Sarma dhayini – Grants all pleasures to devotees.

Shaankari – Consort of Shankara (Shiva)

Sri kari – grants all wealth and prosperity.

Saadhvi – a pathivrutha or always devoted to Her husband.

Saras Chandra nibhanana – face is charming as the autumn moon

Saadhodhari – Daughter of Himavan, who is called Saadhodharan

Saanthimathi – maintains Her calmness always

Nir adhara – does not need any support but supports all.

Nir anjana – is free from the stain of ignorance

Nir lebha – is not affected by karma.

Nir mala – is devoid of ego.

Nithya – is permanent, undestructable

Nir akara – is formless

Nir akula – is never agitated.

Nir guna – is beyond three gunas- Satva, Rajas, Tamas.

Nish kala – is without Indhriya or body parts.

Shanta – is ever serene

Nish kama – is free from desires

Nir upaplava – is free from afflictions – Can’t be destroyed.

Nithya muktha – is ever without bondage

Nir vikaara – is beyond changes or modification

Nish prapancha – is unlimited beyond all creations.

Nir asraya – does not need a support

Nithya suddha – is ever clean

Nithya bhuddha – Ever knowledgeable

Nir avadhya – never commits sins

Nir anthara – is all pervading without any gap

Nish kaarana – is beyond cause

Nish kalanka – is without any blemishes.

Nir upathi – free from effects of maya.

Nir ishwara – not controlled by anyone above Her.

Neeraga – is without desires, as She is fully satisfied.

Raga madhani – helps the devotees to get freed from desires

Nir madha – is without pride

Madha nasini – destroys pride in devotees.

Nis chinta – is without worries

Nir ahamkara – is without ego

Nir moha – is without delusion

Moha nasini – destroys delusion of devotees

Nir mama – is without selfishness

Mamatha hanthri – destroys selfishness from devotees

Nish papa – is without sin

Papa nasini – destroys sin of devotees

Nish krodha – is devoid of anger

Krodha samani – neutralises anger in devotees

Nir lobha – is without greed

Lobha nasini – removes greed in devotees

Nis samsaya – does not have any doubt – knower of all.

Samsa yagni – clears all doubts in devotees

Nir bhava – is without origin

Bhava nasini – frees devotees from rebirth

Nir vikalpa – is without hallucination

Nir abhadha – is without wrong notions

Nir bheda – is without differences amongst creations

Bheda nasini – removes differences and helps devotees realise.

Nir nasa – without destruction – cannot be destroyed

Mrithyu madhani – removes fear of death

Nish kriya – is without duties

Nish parigraha – she does not need any assets

Nis thula – incomparable

Neela sikura – has dark hair

Nir apaaya – is without dangers

Nirathyaya – does not cross Her own limits 

Dhur labha – not easy to reach

Dhur gama – not easy to get near.

Dhurga – One who killed demon Durgaman

Duhka hanthri – destroys sorrow

Sukha pradha – bestows happiness

Dhushta dhoora – does not allow bad ones to near Her

Dhur aachara samani – destroys bad practices

Dhosha varjitha – is without defects

Sarvagna – knower of all

Santhra karuna – extremely kind

Samaanaadhika varjitha – is above all – no equals – none above Her.

Sarva sakthi mayi – is all powerful

Sarva mangala – is all that is auspicious

Sad gadhi pradha – shows us the good way to live

Sarveshwari – is the supreme Goddess

Sarva mayi – is omnipresent – is everywhere.

Sarva manthra swaroopini –She is of the form of mantra (sukshma) swaroopam

Sarva yantra athmika – resides in all chakras

Sarva tantra roopa – manifests as all body chakras

Manonmani – (Mana unmani) – takes your mind to great heights

Maaheshwari – Consort of Maheshwara

Maha Devi – Consort of Mahadeva

Maha Lakshmi – is goddess of wealth

Let us invite the Goddess Lakshmi now:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vy_VgMWCvA

Mrida priya – Consort of Mruda (Shiva) – lover of Lord Shiva.

Maha roopa – is Brahma roopam – the ultimate.

Maha poojya – is worshipped by all deities. Holy of the holies.

Maha padhaka nasini – removes even great papa like brahmahathi dhosham (the sin of killing the innocent brahmins).

Maha maya – creates delusion to even the deities

Maha sathva – is highly capable

Maha sakthi – all powerful

Maha rathi – great pleasure to be with

Maha bhoga – enjoys great pleasure

Maha Ishwarya – Possessor of wealth

Maha veerya – full of vitality and splendour

Maha bala – supreme in strength

Maha buddhi – supreme intelligence, second tattva of prakruti.

Maha siddhi – extraordinary yogic power

Maha yogeswara eshwari – prayed for by even great yogis

Maha tantra – greatest tantric of all

Maha mantra – She is mantra swaroopini. 

Maha yantra – She is yantra itself.

Maha aasana – She has 36 tattvas as Her great seat

Maha yaga kramaradhya – Can be reached through oblations.

Maha Bhairava poojitha- born through Bhairava’s oblations in Chithagni.

Maheswara maha kalpa maha thandava sakshini – She is the one and only, who would remain as witness when Lord Shiva performs His dance               (Thandava) and dissolves all creations in the end.

Maha kamesha mahishi – The queen (maharani) of Lord Kameshwara

Maha thripura sundari – The most beautiful of all worlds

Chathuh Shashti upacharatya – She has to be worshipped with 64 things like jewels, oils, scented items etc. A complete list is mentioned in Bhaskara raya’s and Sri Shankara’s texts.

Chatuh Shashti kala mayee – She is present in the form of 64 skills

Maha chatuh Shashti koti yogini gana sevitha – She is served by 64 crore yogini sakthis. These yoginis reside in Sri Chakra in the 9 aavaranas.

Manu vidhya – She is of the form of Sri Vidhya, worshipped by Manu.

Chandra vidhya - She is of the form of Sri Vidhya, worshipped by Moon.

(There are twelve Sakthi upasakas, like Manu, Chandra (Moon), Lopamuthra (Wife of Agathya), Dattathreya, Durvasa rishi etc., who worshipped Devi in Sri Vidhya form, but with slight variations. Each variation is known by their name).

Chandra mandala madhyaka – Chandra mandalam is said to be in Sahasrara chakram and Devi when She reaches there, is said to reside in Chandra mandalam along with Lord Shiva.

Charu rupa – Charu means beautiful or attractive. She has a beautiful rupam or shape.

Charu hasa – She has an attractive (gracious) smile.

Charu Chandra kaladhara – She wears the beautiful crescent moon on Her Hair.

Chara achara jagannatha – She is the Goddess of all things moving and non-moving.

Chakra raja nikethana – She resides in the Sri Chakra. She is Sri Chakra.

Parvathi – Daughter of Parvatha Rajan.

Padma Nayana – Her eyes are lovely as a lotus.

Padma raga samaprabha – She shines all over in red colour (raga) like Lotus.

Pancha Pretha asanaaseena – As already explained, Devi is seated on a throne, wherein Lords, Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, Easanan are the legs and SadaSiva becomes the top sheet. When these five are without their wives (sakthis), they are said to be dead bodies (pretha) as they cannot function alone. 

Pancha brahma swaroopini – She does all the actions of these five gods, namely, Srishti (Brahma), Sthithi (Vishnu), Samhara (Rudra), Thirodhana (Esana) and Anugraha (Sadasiva). Hence, She is of the form of these five deities.

Chinmayee – She is blissful pure consciousness (Chaithanya swaroopam).

Parama anandaa – She is a state of absolute bliss.

Vignana gana rupini – She is of pure knowledge.

Dhyana dhyathru dhyeya rupa – She is of the form of meditation, meditator as well as the one meditated upon.

Dharma adharma vivarjitha – She is beyond righteousness or vice.

Viswaroopa – She is present everywhere in the universe.

Jagarini – She is within all jeevathma (Jaagari) and always awake. In this state, the Jeevan knows what is happening around.

Swapanthi – She is also always in dream state. In this state, the Jeevan is still active, though it is sleeping.

Thaijasathmika – She is in the light of the subconscious state.

Suptha – She who is in sushupthi, deep sleep state. In this state Jeevan does not knoe what is happening around.

Praakgnathmika – She is in state of awareness (one who gets up from deep sleep state feels he slept well, meaning he is still aware of the deep sleep)

Thurya – She is beyond Jagrath, swapna and sushupti states (avasthas). This state is called thurya and only yogins can reach this state. Though they are in deep sleep, they will still be able to know what is happening around.

Sarva avastha vivarjitha – She is in all states explained above.

The following few lines describe Her functioning as Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. She also performs the functions of Ishwara and SadaShiva. As discussed elsewhere, Shiva appears in three forms, Rudra, Ishwara and Sadashiva. As Rudra, He destroys and recreates. As Ishwara, He aids Maya in creating a veil. As Sadashiva, He offers Anugraha.

Shrushti karthri – She is the one who creates all, in the form of Brahma.

Brahma roopa – She is para Brahman, because She creates.

Gopthri – Saviour of all, like Gopala.

Govinda roopini – She is Vishnu, because She saves all.

Samharini – She destroys evil.

Rudhrarupa – She is Shiva swaroopini as She destroys.

Thirodhaanakari – Thirodhanam is the function of Eswara. He creates a veil over all beings.  (Thirai in tamil means Veil). She covers with maya. 

Easwari – Since She performs the functions of Easwara (as above).

Sadashiva- She is also Sadasiva, 

Anugrahatha – She performs Sadasiva’s function of anugraham.

Pancha kruthya parayana - being Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, Iswara and Sadasiva, as explained above, She is Pancha brahma swaroopini and hence She does all the five functions.

Bhanu mandala madhyastha – Apart from Chandra mandala, She resides in Surya (Bhanu) mandala also.

Bhairavi – Consort of Lord Bhairava Shiva).

Bhaga malini – One of the fifteen Thithi devata is called Bhaga malini.

Padma aasana – Seated on Brahma Padmam (lotus).

Bhagavathi - She who is an embodiment of excellence.

Padmanabha sahodhari – Sister of Vishnu

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDEaZzN0JrM

Unmesha nimisha uthpanna vipanna bhuvanavali – She creates (Uthpanna) and destroys (vipanna) all worlds (bhuvana) just by opening and closing Her eyes

Sahasra Seersha Vadana, Sahasraakshi, sahasra paath - She who has thousands of heads, faces, eyes and feet. (Similar to Purusha Suktham, which says Lord Vishnu has “Sahasra Seersha Purusha; sahasra aksha; sahasra path” – having thousands of heads, eyes and feet).

Aabrahma keeda Janani – She is the creator of all, from the great Brahma down to minute (keeda) creatures.

Varnasrama vidhayini – After creation, She established rules and regulations for society.

Nija aagna roopa nigama – She orders creation from vedas, agamas and nigamas. Nigamas are Shiva tantras.

Punyaa apunyaa bhalapradha – She orders karmic effects as per good or sinful deeds.

Sruthi seemantha sindhoori krutha padabhja dhoolika – Dust (dhoolika) from Her feet (Padaabja) form the kumkum (Sindhoori) on the forehead hair portion (seemantham) of women (sruthi). This is because these women often bow at Her feet which is always adorned with red pastes.

Sakala aagama sandoha shukthi samputa maukthika- Vedas are compared to the shell of the Pearl, while Devi is compared to the precious Pearl (Moukthika) inside.

Purushartha pratha – The four goals of human life are wealth (Artha), desire (Kama), righteousness (Dharma) and liberation (moksha). These four are called “chaturvitha purushartha”. Many deities are capable of granting only one of these four, whereas Devi grants all the four to Her devotees.

Poorna – She is the whole.

Bhogini –She gives and enjoys pleasures.

Bhuvaneswari – She creates, sustains and destroys the 14 worlds through Hreemkara Bheejam. And hence She is the Goddess of the entire creations.

Ambika – The mother of all.

Anaadhi nidhana – She has no beginning or end.

Hari Brahma Indra Sevitha –She is worshipped by Vishnu/Brahma/Indra.

Narayanee – Born along with Lord Narayana.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQamahuABvQ

Nada roopa – She is in the form of primal mystic sound. 

Nama roopa vivarjitha – She is beyond name and form.

(THIS COMPLETES 300 NAMES OUT OF 1000)

Hreem kaari - She is of the form of seed syllable, ‘Hreem’.

Hrimathi – She who feels shy (Lajja).

Hrudhya – She resides in the heart of Her devotees.

Heya upadeya varjitha – She is beyond acceptance as well as rejection.

Raja raja arthitha – Worshipped by 12 main worshippers including Manu, Gupera, who are all treated as king of kings.

Ragni – She is the Queen

Ramya – Of pleasant composition.

Rajeeva lochana – Her eyes look like that of a deer or a fish or a lotus.

Ranjani – She makes Her devotees feel happy (mano ranjitha)

Ramani – Likes to play with Her devotees.

Rasyaa – She is the essence of Brahman.

Ranath kinkini mekala – wears a girdle (waist band) with its bells making musical sounds.

Ramaa – She is Mahalakshmi herself.

Raakendu vadana – Her face shines like a full moon.

Rathi roopa – Having beautiful features like Rathi devi (wife of Manmatha).

Rathi priya – She likes Rathi, whose husband Manmatha was burnt down by Lord Shiva. Manmatha turned into Bandasura due to Shiva’s anger. Devi restored Manmatha back to Rathi, after killing Bandasura. Hence, we can infer that Rathi also likes Her.

Rakshakari – She protects. 

Raakshasagni – She destroys demons (Rakshasas).

Raamaa – Very charming young woman.

Ramana lampada – She enjoys being with Her husband, Lord Shiva.

Kamyaa – She is lovable by all devotees.

Kamakala roopa – She is the power of shiva, with a devine desire to multiply.

Kadamba kusuma priya – She likes Kadamba flowers.

Kalyani – The blessed one.

Jagathi ghandha – She is the root cause of the universe.

Karuna rasa sagara – She is an ocean of mercy.

Kalavathi – She is the form of 64 skills (Kala).

Kala labha – She speaks of these kalaas (Skills)

Kaanthaa – Beautiful magnetic personality.

Kaadambari priya – She is fond of beverage made from Kadamba flower. (Kaadambari also refers to Goddess Saraswathi and Cuckoo bird).

Varada – She grants boons.

Vaama nayanaa – Having very beautiful eyes.

Vaarunee madha vihvalaa – She gets delighted with spiritual bliss.

Viswaadhika – She is above all tattvas.

Veda Vedya – She can be reached through all four vedas.

Vindhyachala nivasini – She resides in Vindhya hills.

Vidhathri – Same as Jagadhathri – Protector of all worlds.

Veda Janani – She is veda mata, the mother of all vedic sounds.

Vishnu maya – She is called so, as She creates illusion (Maya) in all beings; (Ya devi sarva bhoodeshu Vishnu mayethi samsthitha). “Vishnu” also means that which is not limited by geography, time etc.

Vilaasini – She is playful (Lalitha), Her play being the creation, sustenance and dissolution of the universe.

Kshethra swaroopa – She has 18 holy Temples or Kshetra (Sakthi peetams), which represent Her body parts (as Sati). “Dheho devalayam” – the body is the temple.

Kshethresi – Consort of Kshethresan (Shiva).

Kshethra kshethragna palini – She looks after these kshetra and its Lord.

Kshaya vruddhi vinir muktha – She is beyond decrease (Kshaya) or increase (Vruddhi).

Ksethra pala samarchitha – Worshipped by Lord Shiva (He is known as Kshethrapala, when lord Shiva became a child to quell Kali’s anger)

Vijaya – Always victorious

Vimala – Very pure, having all impurities (mala) destroyed.

Vandhya -  She is adorable, praiseworthy and respectable.

Vandharu jana vathsala – She treats Her devotees with affection (Vaathsalyam).

Vaag vaadhini – She is Sarawathi, the Goddess of words.

Vama kesi – Consort of Lord Vamakeswara (Lord Shiva), having lovely hair.

Vanhi mandala vaasini – She resides in fire layer in Muladhara.

Bhakthi math kalpa rahita – She grants boons to devotees like a Kalpa vriksham, the tree that grants anything you wish. For those who pray to Her sincerely, even without following the prescribed procedures, She grants a life through which they can reach Her.

Pasu pasa vimosinee – She liberates living beings (pasu) from effects of maya.

Samrutha sesha bhakhanda – She destroys those who have left (sesha) their faith in dharma sastras.

Sadhaa aachara pravarthika – She makes everyone follow the rules (aachara) always (sadhaa).

Thaapatrayaagni samthaptha samahlaadhana Chandrika- Like the cool moon (Chandrika), She cools down all those severely roasted to suffer due to their karmic effects (thaapathraya).

Tharunee – Always remains youthful.

Thaapasa araathyaa – worshipped by sages (thapasvees)

Thanu madhya – She has a slim hip (madhya)

Thamo paha – Dispells darkness (thamo).

Chithi – embodiement of true knowledge (Chith).

Thath padha lakshyartha – She is identified as ‘that’ (‘thathvamasi’) Which is pure Brahman.

Chith eka rasa roopini – Chith is Her only (eka) form.

Swathma aananda lavi bhootha brahmadhya anantha santhathi – Since She is of Chith form, She dwells in such an unending ocean of supreme bliss that compared to this, the bliss enjoyed by Brahma and other deities is as minute as a spec (lava). 

In the following lines, Her subtle sound form is highlighted. Sound is refined as para, pashyanthi, madhyama and vaikhari depending on its origin from our body. 

Para – She is of ‘sound’ form. ‘Para’ is the hidden sound, like the acoustic energy hidden in a tightly stringed bow. It resides in Muladhara. Once it raises up, it gains momentum as ‘paschyanthi’ in naval region, then as ‘madhyama’ when it reached heart region and finally it reaches throat region as ‘vaikhari’, then it becomes audible. Look at the finer details of sound dealt in our texts.

Prathyak chithi roopa – After dissolution (pralaya), when all energy comes to rest, She resides as consciousness turned inside. She contains all energy as potential form, to be brought out again at appropriate time.

Paschyanthi – From ‘para’ She emanates as the Paschyanthi sound.

Para devatha – She is the object of supreme devotion.

Madhyama – She becomes the madhyama sound.

Vaikhari roopa – She then becomes the vaikari sound.

Bhaktha manasa hamsika – She resides as the divine bird, Hamsa, in the minds of devotees.

Kameswara prana nadi – She is the ‘jeeva nadi’ of Lord Kameswara – that is why even when Lord Shiva drank poison, She protected Him from its effect.

Krithagna – She knows all actions performed by all living beings. She is always watching us all, through nine witnesses surya, chandra, yama, Kaala (time), ether, air, fire, water and earth. All these witnesses report to Her on all our activities. 

Kaama poojitha – She is worshipped by Manmatha.

Srungara rasa sampoorna – She is the essence of pure love in its fulness.

Jaya – She is always the winner.

Jaalandhara sthitha – She resides in places (peetams) such as Kamagiri peetam, Poorna giri peetam, Jaalandhara peetam and Odyana peetam.

Odyana peeta nilaya – as explained above.

Bhindu mandala vasini – She resides in the central Bhindu in the Sri Chakram and in the Sahasrara in body Chakra.

Raho yaga krama rathya – Sri Vidhya is to be performed in a rahasya or secret way, called Rahoyaga. She can thus be reached in a secret way. 

Rahas tharpana tharpitha – ‘Rahas tharpanam’ is the act of uttering the mantras, knowing their secret meanings fully. She is pleased with those who utter the mantras in this way.

Saadhya prasaadhini – She will be pleased immediately with such prayers and grants boons.

Viswa saakshini – As earlier explained, She witnesses all movements in the Universe.

Saakshi varjitha – However, She does not have anyone to witness Her. She is the unltimate.

Shad anga devatha yuktha -  There are six aavarana devatas surrounding Her always, in the form of six body parts, namely Heart, Head, Hair, eyes, protective armour and arrows.

Shad gunya paripuritha – She is perfectly endowed with six good qualities (shad gunya) – Aishwaryam (wealth), Dharmam (doctrines), Yasas (beauty), Shree (good fortune and wealth), Gnaanam (knowledge) and Vairaagyam (fair and firm-minded).

Nithya Klinna – She is always merciful and kind hearted.

Nir upama – She is matchless

Nirvaana suka dhayini –She grants happiness through mukthi (liberation). 

Nithya shodasika roopa – She is of the form of sixteen nithya thithi devatas (fifteen thithi from prathamai to pournami plus Devi Herself as hidden sixteeth thithi).

Sri kanda ardha sharirini – Lord Shiva is known as Srikandan. She has occupied half (ardha) of His body (sareeram) as Ardhanariswari.

Prabhavathi – She radiates brilliance all around.

Prabha roopa – She is the effulgence of powerful rays.

Prasiddhaa – She is famous, well known and celebrated.

Parameshwari – The ultimate Goddess.

Mula prakruthi – She is the root cause of this universe. Prakruthi is the one without any change, the primordial matter, while Her creations are called Vikruthi, the modified ones, the manifestations.

Avyaktha – She is unmanifested, imperceptible, subtle and hence cannot be clearly understood.

Vyaktha avyaktha swaroopini – She is both unmanifested as well as the manifested One. She is both the root cause as well as the created beings.

Vyaapini – She is all pervading, spread everywhere.

(This completes the 400^th name).

Vividha kaara – She who has many forms (ref: dasa maha sakthi)

Vidhya avidhya swaroopini – Since She is all pervading (Vyaapini), She is both in Knowledge as well as ignorance stages.

Maha kamesha nayana kumudahladha kaumudi – Here She is compared to Full Moon (Kaumudi), while the water Lilies (Kumuda) is compared to Lord Shiva’s eyes. Lily blossoms upon getting the lunar lights. By seeing Her, the Lord is so happy that it gladdens His eyes like the moon gladdens the Lily.

Bhaktha hardha thamo bedha bhanumath bhanu santhathi – After comparing Her to the moon, She is now compared to the Sun’s rays, which dispels darkness. She dispels the ignorance (thamo guna) of Her devotees’ hearts.

Shiva dhoothi – She sent Lord Shiva as Her representative (prathinithi or doothan) before the war with demons, Sumbha and Nisumbha and hence She is known as Shiva doothi.

Shiva aaraathya – She is worshipped by Shiva.

Shiva murthi – She is Shiva Himself.

Shivamkari – She bestows auspiciousness to Her devotees.

Shiva priya – She is dear to Lord Shiva ( or She likes Lord Shiva)

Shiva para -  To Her, Shiva is always the Supreme.

Shishta ishta – She is dear to the righteous. 

Shishta pujitha -  She is adored by the righteous.

Aprameya – She is immeasurable, the infinite.

Swa prakasa – She is self-luminous

Mano vacha magochara – She is beyond (cannot be understood through) the range of our mind (mano) and word (vacha).

Chit sakthi – She is the power of intelligence.

Chethana rupa – She is pure consciousness (Chaitanyam) Itself.

Jada sakthir -  Manifesting as the power of the universal (jada) beings.

Jadaathmika – She is the inner most essence of universal beings.

Gayathri – She is Gayathri Devi.

Vyahruthih – She is the manifestations (vyahruthi) as mentioned in Gayathri mantra (Bhur, Bhuvah, Svah represent the earth, sky and heaven respectively)

Sandhya – She is the Goddess of union (Sandhya kaalam) of day-dawn, noon and sunset.

The above three names can be put together (Gayathri vyaahruthih santhya) to mean that She is the creator of all worlds, as mentioned in Gayathri mantra, which is recited daily by brahmins during Sandhya periods.

Dvija brundha nishevita – worshipped by twice born holy men at Sandhya periods- meaning that She is Gayathri devi. (Brahmins are called twice born,  they are considered as born again after upanayanam).

Tattvaasanaa – Her cosmic seat is made of 36 tattva elements.

 tat, tvam, ayi-  This is similar to the maha vakyam “tat tvam asi”, which means “That Thou Art” or you are that Brahman. Here we can say that ‘tat’, ‘tvam’ and ‘ayi’ refers to the saying that She is your Mother. ‘Ayi’ means dear one.

Pancha koshandara sthitha – She is the Jiva within the five koshas (five invisible body sheaths surrounding us). Annamaya kosha (that which is maintained by food), Pranamaya kosha (maintained by vital pranic forces, holding the body), Manomaya kosha (composed of mind), Vijnanamaya kosha (composed of Bhuddhi or intellect) and Anandamaya kosha (composed of pure bliss) 

Nis seema mahima – Her glory is boundless

Nithya yauvana – She is ever youthful

Madha shalini – She is ever inebriated with bliss. ‘Madha’ means getting uninterrupted happiness, without getting affected by any external forces. ‘Shalini’ means shining by own exuberance.

Madha kurnitha raktha akshi – Her eyes are red and rotating due to intoxicating bliss.

Madha patala kandabuh -  Due to the same bliss, Her cheeks are reddish white.

Chandana dhrava dhigdh aanga – She is fond of applying sandal liquid (dhravam) in Her body.

Chaampeya kusuma priya – She likes to be adorned with Champaka flowers (a kind of jasmine).

Kusala – She is very competent and skilful.

Komalaakaara – She has a graceful and beautiful form.

Kurukulla – She is of the form of mother Deity Kurukulla.

Kuleshwari – She is the ruler of kula (family clan), also refers to Shushumna nadi.

Kula kunda aalaya – She redies in Kula kunda, in the muladhara,  as kundalini sakthi.

Kaula marga thath para sevitha -  Worshipped by those who follow Kaula tradition of tantra.

Kumara gananatha amba – She is the mother of Lord Subramanya and Lord Ganesha.

Thushti – She is embodiment of happiness.

Pushti – She is embodiment of nourishment.

Mathi – She is embodiment of wisdom.

Dhruthi – She is embodiment of courage.

Shanthi – She is embodiment of peacefulness.

Swasthimathi – She is embodiment of well-being.

Kanthi – She is resplendent, shining, gleaming brilliantly.

Nandhini – It could mean that She is the daughter of Nandagopan (Lord Krishna’s father) as Maya Devi as his 7th child; or it could mean that She shares Her name with Nandini, the cow born in Kamadenu’s family, or it could mean River Ganaga also.

Vigna naasini – She is the destroyer of obstacles. 

Thejovathi – She is effulgent and shines brilliantly. 

Trinayana - As Lord Shiva shares the third eye with Her, She also has three eyes.

Lolakshi kamarupini – She is love personified as is natural for any woman.

Malini – She wears a garland of 51 letters of Sanskrit alphabet.

Hamsini – This could mean She rides the swan and hence She is Saraswathi. It could mean that She is always surrounded by saints (paramahamsa) or it could also mean that She is of the form of Hamsa mantra (So’ham Hamsah).

Maathaa – The Mother of letters, the Matrika.

Malaya chala vasini – She resides in Malaya(la) mountains in Kerala as Bhagavati.

Sumukhi – She has a pleasing face.

Nalini – She has tender features as that of a lotus.

Su bruh – She has very beautiful eye brows.

Shobana – She is exceptionally beautiful filled with auspiciousness.

Sura nayika – ‘Sura’ means Devas in heaven as opposed to ‘asura’, the demons in lower worlds. She is the unquestioned head of Devas.

Kaala khanti – Consort of kaala khanta (black throated Lord Shiva). She is Maha Kaali, whose other name is Kaalakhanti.

Kanthimathi – Resplendent with lustre. Radiating brilliance around.

Kshobini – She causes pulsatile vibrations called spandana, which ultimately result in creation. Caused high emotions.

Sukshma rupini – As indicated earlier, She has three forms – Sthula (gross), sukshma (subtle) and para (subtlest) forms.

Vajreswari – ‘vajra’ here means diamond. In Sri Chakra, the deity in the eighth aavaranan is called Maha Vajreswari. In Srinagaram, Her abode, an invisible diamond river between the eleventh/twelfth walls whose presiding deity is called Vajreswari. It is also said that Lord Indra obtained his Vajjrayutham (armour) after She was pleased with his prayers.

Vamadevi – One of Lord Shiva’s five faces is known as Vamadeva, others being Ishana, Tatpurusha, Aghora and Sadyojata. Consort of Vamadeva is Vamadevi. She occupies the left (vama) part of Shiva and hence the name.

Vayo avastha vivarjitha – She is unaffected by ageing process (vayas).

Siddheswari – She is worshipped by Siddhars, (yogis who have gained special powers through kundalini yoga).

Siddha vidya – Manthra of Goddess, especially, Panchadasi matra of fifteen letters, is denoted here as siddha vidya. She is of the mantra form.

Siddha matha – She is worshipped as Mother supreme by yogis.

Yashasvini - She is the most famous and renowned for Her capabilities in managing the entire universe under Her control.

Next 60 names (from 475 to 534) explain subtly the tantra philosophy. As already explained previously, there are six body chakras in our body and together with Sahasrara chakra, which is above our head, the total is seven. 

The vak devis, who recite this Lalitha Sahasra nama, explain the nature of these seven chakras as to the names and other details of deities presiding over each of these chakras, the food that they like, the Sanskrit alphabets associated with each of them, etc. 

We have already covered these details in the chapter dealing with Body chakras and readers are requested to refer the respective chakras for further reading on these 60 names of the Sahasra nama. However, though it would be a repetition, we repeat in the following lines, for sake of completeness.

Muladhara

Muladhara ambuja arudha – “Ambuja” is the lotus and here it represents the Muladhara in which the Deity is housed.

Panchavaktra asthi samvitha – Out of five body aspects of Sakthi, She represents bones (Asthi), in Muladhara.

Ankusadhipraharana -Having four weapons, Ankusam, lotus, book and Jnanamudhra, all of which represent “Brahmi” or Saraswati, the wife of Brahma.

Varadhadi nisevitha – She is attended in the four petals by four Sakthis, namely, Varada, Lakshmi, Shanda and Saraswathi.

Mudhgaudanasakaa chitta - Fond of “Pongal” or white rice mixed with pulses.

Sakiny amba swaroopini – She is of the form of Sakini Devi, who guards the Muladhara Chakra.

Svathisthana:

Svathisthana ambuja gata     : She who resides in svathisthana 

Chatur vakra manohara         : Having very attractive four faces

Soolaadhyayuthasampanna    : Holding “soolayutha aayutha”, the Trident

Peethaavarnaa                      : She is of yellow colour in this chakra

Athigarvitha                          : Very proud of Her beauty

Medhonishtha                        : She controls ‘medha’, the fat of our body.

Madhupreetha                       : She is fond of honey.

Bhandhinyadhi samanvidha    : Surrounded by Sakthis like ‘Bhandini’

(There are six Sakthis - Bhandini, Bhadrakali, Mahamaya, Yasasvini, Rakha and Lambhosthi).

Dhadhya annaashakta hrdhya : She is fond of rice mixed with curd.

Kakini roopadhaarini               : She is called ‘Kakini’ in this chakra.

Manipurakam:

Manipurabjanilaya                  : She who resides in Manipura Chakra

Vadana thraya samyudha       : Having three faces

Vajraadhika ayudha upetha    : Holding Vajra weapon

Dhaamari aadhi bhiraavrta     : She is surrounded by Sakthis like Damari

(The ten Sakthis are Damari, Dhankarini, Naarna, Taamasi, Sthaanvi, Dhaakshayani, Dhaatri, Naari, Paarvathi and Phatkarni)   

Rakthavarna                          : Her complexion is Blood- red.

Maamsanishta                        : She rules the flesh (Mamsam) in our Body

Gudda anna preetha maanasa : She likes food mixed with jaggary.

Samastha bhaktha sukhatha    : Blesses all Her devotees with happiness.

Lakini ambha swaroopini          : She is called Lakini.

Lakini has the power of Rudhra in this chakra and is of the form of Badhrakali.

Anaahatham:

Anahathabja nilaya       - She who resides in Anahata Chakra

Syamabha                   -  She is dark in complexion

Vadana dwaya              -  She has two faces

Dhamshtra ujwala        - Shining like a wild boar

Aksha mala udhidhara  - She who adorns Aksha mala and other wearables.

Rudhira samsthida       - She who presides over Blood in our Body

Kala rathryadhi Sakthi youga vrudha- surrounded by Sakthis starting with Kalaradhri (others are Khaditha, Gayathri, Ghataakarshini, Chanda, Chaaya, Jayaa, Jaukarini, Gnanarupa, Jankahastha, Thaukarini). 

Sniggdowdhana priya       - She who likes rice mixed with ghee

Maha veera Indra Varadha - She who granted boons to Indra  

Rakini ambha swaroopini   - She is in the form of Rakini.

Vishuddhi:

Vishuddhi chakra Nilaya        – She who resides in Visuddhi chakra

Aaraktha varna                    - Her complexion is reddish in this chakra 

Trilochana                            - She has three eyes, being equal to Shiva.

Khadwangadhi prakarana      - She carries weapons of rod with skull top.

Vadanaika samavidha           - Vadana Eka- having one face

Payasanna priya                   - Fond of sweet food mixed with milk.

Twakstha                             - She presides over Skin and touch sense.

Pasu loka Bhayamkari           - She is fearful for the ignorant. 

Amruthathi maha Sakthi samvrutha- Surrounded by sixteen Sakthis beginning with Amrutha who all are stationed on the sixteen lotus petals of this chakra – others are Aakarshini, Indraani, Isaani, Uma, Urdvakesi, Rudraa, Reenkaaraa, Linkaaraa, Lukaaraa, Ekapaadaa, Aishvaryaathmikaa, Omkaaraa, Ausadhi, Ambikaa and Aksharaa.  

Dakini eshwari              - She is known as Dakini in this chakra.   

Agjna Chakram:

Agjna chakrabja nilaya - She who resides in Aajna Chakra

Shukla varna               - She is of pure white complexion here

Shadanana
                 - She has six faces

Majja samstha              - She presides over our bone marrow

Hamsavathi mukhya 

-Sakthi samanvitha
      - She is both Hamsavathi and Kshamavathi. 

Hamsa bird can filter the water and drinks only the milk. Likewise, Hamsavathi considers only the good deeds done by us and blesses where as Kshamavathi is capable of even forgiving our bad deeds and bless us.

Hardra annaika rasika   - She likes food made of turmeric rice.

Hakini roopa dharini     - She is called Hakini in this chakra. 

Sahasrara:

Sahasradhalapadhmastha–She who resides in Sahasrara.                                                                                                

Sarva varnopi shobitha    - She shines with all colours

Sarva ayudha dhara        - She holds all weapons in Her hands

Shukla samsthitha           - She presides over semen in our body

Sarvathomukhi
               - She has faces in all directions

Sarvoudhana preetha chittha - She gets pleased with all kinds of food

Yakini ambha swaroopini  - She is known as Yakini in this chakra.

Thus, She controls all the 7 body chakras. Having completed the body chakras, we now proceed with Her other names:

Svaaha – She is the deity, by name Svaaha, Who accepts the offerings made, in the sacrificial fire, to gods. Lord Shiva is considered as the Lord of Fire. 

Svaha is His consort, who consumes all that is offered.

Svatha - She is the deity, by name Svatha, Who accepts the offerings made, in the sacrificial fire, to departed souls.

Amathi – ‘mathi’ means ‘thought/intension’. ‘Amathi’ means without it. It refers to the stage before creation began. She was motionless.

Medha -  After creation, She became thoughtful with a desire to expand.

Shruthi – She is the four vedas. That which is heard.

Smrithi – She is the texts on code of conduct (Manu smrithi) and the epics (like Ramayana and Mahabharata), which explain the principles behind Vedas.

Anutthama – She has no one superior to Her. 

Punyakirthi – Worshipping Her brings merits to the devotees.

Punya labhya – She can be reached through good deeds only. 

Punya shravana kirtana – Her stories, songs and verses are very holy.

Pulomaja archidha – She is worshipped by Sasi (daughter of Pulomi), who is the Indrani, (wife of Indra)

Bhanda mochani – She liberates the devotees from bondages.

Barbaraalaka – She has waivy, curly and lovely hair.

Vimarsha rupini – She is the reflection of Brahman. Vimarsha (sakthi) came out of Prakasa (Brahman).

Vidhya – She is the knowledge of brahman.

Viyadadhi jagat prasuh – Viyad refers to the element Akash. Viyadadhi means all 5 elements starting with Akash, namely, Akash, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. She is the creator of this universe (jagat) from these 5 elements.

Sarva vyadhi prasamani – She cures all diseases (vyadhi).

Sarva mruthyu nivarini – She relieves the souls from death and rebirth.

Agra ganya – Agra means primal. She is the first one to come out of Brahman.

Achintya rupa – ‘Chintya’ is mind and achintya rupa means She is beyond our comprehension.

Kali kalmasha nashini – She destroys all sins of devotees during Kali yuga. But why Kali yuga alone is mentioned? Vak devis must have felt that it was during Kali yuga that people commit many sins. 

Kaathyayini – She is brightness at its best.

Kaala hanthri – She destroys death – meaning there will be no further rebirths.

Kamalaaksha nishevitha – “Kamalaaksha” refers to Lotus-eyed Vishnu. She is worshipped by Him.

Thaambula puritha mukhi – She chews mouthful of betel leaves.

Dhaadimi kusuma prabha – She shines like a pomegranate flower.

Mrighaakshi – She has beautiful eyes, like a deer.

Mohini – She is of bewitching beauty.

Mukya – She is the most important among all gods and goddesses.

Mrudaani – She is the consort of Mruda (Shiva).

Mitra rupini – ‘Mitran’ refers to Sun god. She is effulgent like Sun. Mitra also means friend. She is easily approachable by all.

Nithya thruptha – She is eternally contended and happy.

Bhakta nidhi – She is an asset to Her devotees.

Niyanthri – She establishes and controls all.

Nikhila Eshwari – She is the ruler of universe.

Maithryadhi vaasana labhya – She can be attained through four qualities, namely, (1) friendship (Maithri) with the deserving, (2) mercy (karuna) for the suffering, (3) being happy (mudhitha) with the men of virtue and (4) being indifferent (upeksha) to the sinners. 

Maha pralaya sakshini – She is the witness to dissolution of universe (pralaya), when Lord Shiva starts His pralaya dance. No one else would survive till that end. 

Para sakthi – She is the supreme power.

Para nishta – She abides in firm meditation.

Pragnana gana rupini – She has superior and concentrated pure knowledge.

Maadhvi pana lasa – She is in a state of eternal bliss and enjoys amrudh (maadhvi panam) when kundalini reaches Sahasrara chakra.

Maththa – she is in an inebriated state due to drinking maadhvi panam.

Maathruka varna rupinin – She is of the form (varna) of 52 alphbets (Mathruka) of Sanskrit language.

Maha kailasa nilaya – She resides with Shiva in His abode, Maha Kailasa.

Mrunaala mrudhu dhorlatha – She has a soft and tender hands like that of a lotus stalk. Kundalini is referred here to be in the form of a lotus with Shushmana as its stalk .

Mahaneeya – She is worthy of praise on all accounts.

Dhaya murthi – She is compassionate mother, who takes care of all, even those who do not surrender.

Maha saamrajya salini – She controls huge ‘saamrat’, cluster of kingdoms, in the  multi-universes. 

Aathma vidhya – She is of the form of Brahma Vidya, the knowledge of brahman.

Maha vidhya – She is of the from of superior knowledge.

Sri Vidhya – She is panchadasi mantra swarupini. 

Kaama sevitha – She is worshipped by Manmatha.

Sri Shodasakshari vidhya – She is of the form of superior sixteen lettered manthra. While panchadsi mantra is fifteen lettered, shodasakshari mantra is sixteen lettered (by adding ‘Shreem’) and is considered superior.

Thrikoota - Sri Vidhya Kootams are situated in three places. Vakbhava Kooteswari - Kanchi Kamakshi. Madhya Kooteswari - Madurai Meenakshi, and Sakthi Kooteswari - Thiru Aanaikka- Akiladneswari. She is in the form of many triads, groups of threes as explained elsewhere.

Kaamakotika – One Who sits in Kamakoti peetam at Kanchi.

Kataksha kinkari bhutha kamala koti sevitha – She has crores (Koti) of Lakshmi devis (Kamala) who are waiting to serve (sevitha) upon Her instructions (Kimkari) through mere glance (kataksha). This means that Devi has all wealth under Her command.

Sirah sthitha – She resides in Sahasrara, above the head.

Chandra nibah – She shines like the full moon just below Sahasrara. This refers to Chandra kootam in Sahasrara chakra.

Bhaalastha – She is in the form of dot (kumkum) in the forehead (Ajna chakra) of married women. This also refers to the bindhu in Sri Chakra.

Indhra dhanu prabha – Literally it means that She shines like the brilliance (prabha) of Indra’s bow. It can also mean that she shines like a rainbow. Indra is connected with rain, thunder and lightning.

Hrudhayastha – She resides in the hearts of Her devotees.

Ravi prakya – She shines like the Sun in Anahata in the Heart Chakra. This refers to the Surya kootam in Anahata.

Trikonaanthara deepika – She shines like a flame (deepa) of fire in the triangle Muladhara chakra. This refers to Agni kootam.

Dhaakshayani – Daughter of Daksha.

Daitya hanthri – She is the slayer of Demons, sons of Dithi.

Daksha yagna vinasini – She is the destroyer of sacrificial rites performed by Dakha, as he refused to invite Lord Shiva.

This completes 600^th name.

Dharaandholitha dheergaakshi – Her long eyes continuously move all around looking for devotees who seek Her support to dispel their grievances.

Dharahasa ujjvalan mukhi – Her face is glowing with Her smile.

Guru murthih – She is the supreme Guru.

Guna nidhih – She is full of good qualities.

Go matha – She is Kamadenu, the divine cow, granting all wishes.

Guha janma bhuh – She is the Mother of Lord Guha.

Devesi – She is the Easwari of all Devas.

Dhanda neethistha – She establishes dharma, punishing when needed.

Daharakasha rupini – She can be found in the ‘space’ within in our hearts. Just like Akasha space in upper regions in the sky, there is an inner space called Daharakasha.

Pratipan mukhya raka antha thithi mandala pujitha – She is worshipped by all fifteen thithi devis, from Prathama (pratipan) till poornima (Raka).

Kalaathmika – She is in the form of all arts and skills.

Kalaanaadha – She is the controller of all kalaas, Arts.

Kaavya alabha vinodhini – She delights listening to poetries and epics. Vinodini means delightful girl.

Sa chamara rama vani savya dakshina sevita – Lakshmi (Rama) and Saraswati (Vani) are fanning (chamara) Her from left and right respectively. This means that Her devotees will have no dearth of wealth and knowledge.

Aadi sakthi -  She is the primal power.

Ameya – She is immeasurable. She is smaller than the smallest and bigger than the biggest. 

Atma – She is the Soul.

Parama – She is consort of Para (Shiva).

Paava naa kritih – She destroys sin and purifies all.

Aneka koti brhmanda Janani – Mother of several crores of universes.

Divya vigraha – She is bestowed with a divine body.

Klimkari – She is in the form of kaamabhijam, ‘Klim’.

Kevalaa – She stands alone, as absolute, devoid of any attributes.

Guhya – She resides in the (secret) caves in the hearts of devotees.

Kaivalya padha dhayini – She grants salvation to her devotees. ‘Kaivalya padham’ is the greatest of salvation which ensures there will be no more rebirth. The souls thus get unified with Brahman. She grants such great position to Her devoted souls.

Tripura – Tripura literally means three cities but subtly it refers to the three states of jagrat (wakeful), svapna (dream) and shushupti (deep sleep). She is the underlying consciousness behind all the three states and is called Sri Tripura. This is mentioned in the text ‘Tripura Rahasya’, as described by Lord Dattatreya. She is in the form of triads as explained elsewhere.

Tri jagad vandya – She is worshipped in all three worlds, as mentioned in Gayatri mantra – Bhur, Bhuvah, Suvah, which are otherwise same as jagrat, svapna and shushupti states as explained above.

Trimurthih – She is the combined form of three Gods, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Thri dhasa eshvari – She is the Goddess of all Devas numbering 33 koti.

Tryakshari – She Who is known by three lettered (akshara) mantra. Thikuta is referred as three group of letters.

Dhivya gandhadya – She emits divine fragrance.

Sindura thilakanchitha – She adorns sacred red tilak on Her forehead.

Uma – She is Uma, daughter of Himavan. Pranava letters ‘Aum’ became ‘Uma’. Hence ‘Uma’ is known as Devi pranava mantram.

Shailendra thanaya – She is daughter of king of mountains, Himavan of Himalayas. “Shaila” refers to mountain. She is ‘Shailaja’, the one who resides in mountains.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Qk7enruG4Y

Gauri – Golden colour is known as ‘gaura varnam’. Since She is of that colour, She is called Gauri.

Gandharva sevitha – She is worshipped by celestial singers of Gandharva clan. They are twelve of them, named, Thumburu, Narada, Haha, Huhu, Vishvavasu, Ugrasena, Surugi, Paravasu, Citrasena, Urnayu, Dhrtarastra and Suryavarcas. 

Vishva garbha – She is the Mother of the universal objects, which emanated from Her golden womb, called Hyranya Garbha.

Swarna garbha – Her womb shines like gold since it contains all mantras. She is matrka or mother of all veda mantras.

Avaradha – She punishes the demonic qualities (avara) 

Vaagadheeswari – She is the Goddess of all words.

Dhyanagamya – She can be reached through deep meditation(dhyana).

Aparichedhya – She is not limited by time or geography. She is everywhere at the same time.

Gnanatha – She grants enlightenment.

Gnana vigraha – She is made of pure knowledge of Brahman.

Sarva Vedantha samvedhya – She can be fully understood through study of all Upanishads. ‘Vedanta’ indicates Upanishads. The Vedas are classified into four parts – mantras (vedic hymns), brahmanas (vedic rituals for sacrifice), aranyakas (ritualistic study of atman) and at the end of Vedas, we have the Upanishads, which deal with the essence of Spirituality. Since Upanishads form the end part (antham), they are called, ‘Vedaantha’.

Satya Ananda swaroopini – She is of true (satya) Bliss (Ananda) form.

Lopamudhra architha – She was worshipped by Lopamudhra, wife of saint Agasthya. Lopamudhra used Hadi Vidya.

Leela kluptha brahmanda mandala – She created the entire universe through Her leela, playfully, like a sport and handles it with ease. Any sport will have rules and so also our lives have rules and regulations, governed by points and penalties, in the form of karma. 

Adhrushya – She is not visible to us, though we are able to see all Her creations. This is like saying that, though we are able to see things using our eyes, we are unable to see our own eyes. It can only be realised through external reflection. She can be realised and felt through internal reflection only.

Dhrishya rahitha – She remains beyond our comprehension. We cannot perceive Her through any of our senses.

Vignathri – She is the knower of everything, the embodiment of knowledge.

Vedya varjitha – She has no need to know anything, meaning She knows everything, the converse of the previous name.

Yogini – She is personification of Yoga and tantra. She is present in the from of various Yoginis in the Sri Chakra and 6 body chakras.

Yogadha – She grants union of Her devotees with Herself. Yoga means union of self with Atman.

Yogya – She can be attained through Yoga.

Yoganandha – She attains and enjoys bliss in Sahasrara through kundalini yoga.

Yugandhara – She controls time periods or aeons (yuga). The four ages are Sathya or Kritha (golden age), Tretha (Silver age), Dwapara (Bronze age) and Kali (Iron age). 360 human years is equal to one divine year. 12,000 divine years (4.32 million human years) is one maha yuga, divided into 4 yugas. Kritha yuga of 4000 divine years, Tretha yuga of 3000 divine years, Dwapara yuga of 2000 divine years and Kali yuga of 1000 divine years. The balance 2000 years is spread between the 4 yugas towards the buffer zones between the 4 yugas. Out of 360,000 years of Kali yuga we have completed around 5100 plus years.

Iccha sakthi jnana sakthi kriya sakthi swarupini – She is the unified force of the three goddesses, Saraswathi, Lakshmi and Parvathi. The combined form is also called as ‘Ambika’ or ‘Trishika’.

Sarvaadhaara – She is the supporter for all creations.

Suprathishta – She is the holy foundation for all worlds.

Sath asath rupa dharini – She is of the form of truth (Sath) as well as that which is other than Truth (asath). This means that everything came out of Her.

Ashta murthi - She appears as eight sakthi devis - Brahmi, Maheshvari, Koumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Mahendri, Chamunda and Mahalakshmi.

Aja jaithri – ‘Aja’ means avidhya or ignorance. Jaithri means winning over. It means that She is supreme knowledge and She has no place for ignorance at all.

Loka yathra vidhayini – She conducts the entire journey (yathra) of all fourteen worlds including their movements and cycle of birth to death.

Ekaakini – She conducts the entire administration of all worlds, single handedly, without a second force. 

Bhuma rupa – ‘Bhuma’ means infinite and here it refers to Brahman. She is Brahman Himself.

Nir dvaidha – She is not different from Brahman, but, one with Brahman. She is ‘advaitha’. There are three schools of thoughts – dvaitha (duality), vashishtadvaitha (conditional dualism) and advaitha (non-dual). In Advaitha, soul and Brahman are one and the same, but, Brahman appears as soul and other crations due to Maya. According to Dvaitha school, the jeeva atma (soul) and insentient world (jada) are different from Paramaathma (God or Brahman). Whereas, in Vashishtadhvaitha, while it accepts that soul and world around are different from God, (which is same as Dvaitha philosophy), it says that soul cannot exist separately without God.

Dvaitha varjitha – She is devoid of duality and always remains united with Brahman and not different from it.

Annadha – She is the one who supplies food to all. She is Annapoorani.

Vasudha – She is the one who bestows all wealth.

Vruddha – She is the eldest of all beings, having been the first to emanate from Lord Shiva. She is still young as She is beyond ageing.

Brahma athma ikya swarupini -  She is of the form of Hamsa mantra, which represents the union of soul (Athma) with Brahman. 

Bruhathi – She is the biggest (bruhath) of all.

Brahmani – She is the knower of Brahman. If it is a male, such knower is called Brahmana and if female, Brahmani. 

Brahmi – She is the One, Who is Saraswathi (wife of Lord Brahma) swaroopam.

SARASWATHI, KOOTHANUR

Brahmaananda – she is the eternal bliss that is Brahman

Bali priya – She is fond of those who make food offerings (bali) to animals, fellow beings and to other gods.

Bhasha rupa – She is the Shabda Brahman. Through sounds, languages are born and knowledge is imparted. Hence, She is the form of language (bhasha).

Bruhath sena – she has mighty army which assist Her in controlling the universe.

Bhava abhava vivarjitha – She has no birth or death. She is not created or destroyed. She is brahman.

Sukha Araadhya – She likes to be worshipped by devotees without straining themselves through fasting etc. She favours easy (sukha) worship without harming the body, as body is Her temple.

Shubha kari – She always brings auspiciousness (shubham) to Her devotees, who worhip Her.

Shobhana sulaba gathih – Her path of worship is easy (sulaba) and lusterous (shobana), as Her splendour beams forth in all directions.

The following few names describe Her aspect as Rajarajeswari.

Rajarajeshwari – ‘Rajaraja’ means king of kings. She is Goddess for even the king of kings. She is the supreme ruler of all worlds.

Rajya dhayini – She grants all wealth on earth to Her devotees, including heavenly positions thereafter.

Rajya vallabha – ‘vallabha’ means ‘to like it’. She likes to rule the world.

Rajat krupa – She if gloriously compassionate.

Rajapeeda niveshitha nijashritha – She grants kingdoms to Her devotees.

Rajya lakshmi – The entire wealth of the kingdom is due to Her blessings and thus the wealth is considered to be of Devi’s form.

Kosha natha – ‘Kosha’ refers to the wealth of the kingdom. She controls and protects it. Kosha also mean the five body sheaths - Annamaya kosha (that which is maintained by food), Pranamaya kosha (maintained by vital pranic forces, holding the body and the mind), Manomaya kosha (composed of mind), Vijnanamaya kosha (composed of Bhuddhi or intellect) and Anandamaya kosha (composed of pure bliss). She controls all these sheaths.

Chaturanga baleshvari – She is ably supported by and rules strong army consisting of four sections (chaturanga sena) of chariots (ratha), elephants (gaja), cavalry (thuraga) and soldiers (pathathi). Another subtle meaning is that She rules our internal army having four powerful weapons, mind, bhuddhi, conscience and ego.

Saamrajya dayini – She grants Her devotees with huge kingdom, only enjoyed by emperors

Sathya sandha – She is wedded to truth. No one can ignore her rules and regulations as they are the ultimate insturctions.

Sagara mekhala – She wears the mighty oceans as Her girdle(mekala) or belt. Here it is indicated that She is the earth element and She wears the sea around Her body.

Deekshitha – Like a guru, She initiated Her devotees into Sri Vidhya worship (Deeksha).

Daithya samani – She destroys demonic thoughts and actions.

Sarva loka vasam kari – She attracts all being in all worlds.

Srava artha dhathri – ‘Artha’ means material wealth. She grants all wealth to Her devotees.

Saavithri – She is wife of Savita, Lord Shiva, the creator. Savitha means, to shine like the sun.

Sachidaananda rupini – She is of the form of ‘sath-chith–aanadna’. ‘Sath’ is true self. ‘Chith’ is pure knowledge. ‘Aananda’ is bliss. She is therefore Brahman.

This completes 700^th name.

Desha kaala parichinna – She is beyond space (desha) and time (kaala), while all Her creations are limited by these attributes.

Sarvagaa – ‘Sarva agathvam’ means She is present everywhere. She is within every soul and also outside of it.

Sarva mohini – She bewitches everyone with Her fascinating beauty. She resides in ‘Thrilokya Mahana Chakram’.

Saraswathi – She is of the form of Goddess of learning and eloquence, Who presides over speech and the vedic words.

Shaasthra mayee – Her entire body is made of Shaastraas. Vedaas are considered as prime source of knowledge. Hinduism is known as Sanaadhana Dhrama. Dharma Shaastras are scriptures, like Manu Smruthi, which set forth rules and regulations for individuals and socity to follow. Such shastraas form the foundation for religious and spiritual observations. In this sahasranama, in various places, we find mention has been made that Her breath is Vedas (veda Janani), Mantras are her body (sarva mantra swaroopini), Epics are Her words (Kaavya Kala), Saraswathi resides in Her tongue, Vedangas, such as Samkya, yoga, mimamsa, vedanta, vaishesika and nyaya came out from Her Chin and Her throat emitted 64 kalaas etc. 

Guha amba – She is Mother of Lord Guha (Murugan). She resides in the secret caves (guha) inside the devotees’ minds. 

Guhya rupini – She is subtle and cannot be realised easily.

Sarva upadhi vinirmukthaa – She is free from all limitations (upadhi) created by Bhuddhi (Intellect), knowledge (She is knower of everything) etc.

Sadashiva pathivratha – She is the devoted and chaste Consort of Sadashiva.

Sampradhya eshwari – She is the controller of traditional knowledge.

Saadhu – She is virtuous, righteous and Holy.

Ee – she is of Kamakala form, which is ‘eekaaraa’.

Guru mandala rupini – ‘mandala’ refers to a group. Adi Guru is Lord Paramashiva. From then on, the secrets of Her Sri Vidhya worship have been passed on through many gurus. Hence both guru and Sri Vidhya are one and the same.

Kula utheerna – She is beyond the senses. She cannot be realized through our senses.

Bhaga arathya – She is worshipped in triangle, meaning Sri Chakra. 

Maya – She is the one Who creates an illusion in our minds.

Madhumathi – She is the source of supreme refined knowledge.

Mahi – She is gross earth and thus becomes visible to all.

Ganaamba – She is mother of Ganapathi, the chief of Shiva ganas.

Guhyaka araadhya – She is worshipped by ‘Guhyakas’, the followers of Kubera, the lord of wealth. It means She controls wealth. Kubera is one of the twelve worshippers of Sri Vidhya. These twelve are Manu, Kubera, Chandra, Lopamudhra, Agastya, Manmatha, Agni, Surya, Indra, Skanda, Shiva and Durvasa. All these twelve worship Her through panchadasi mantra.

Komalaangi – She is most soft and tender and hence She is subtlest.

Guru priya – She is fond of Adi-guru, Shiva.

Swa tantra – there are several explanations to this name. It primarily means that She acts independently and does not need any external support. It means that all the tantras are owned by Her. There is a specific tantra named as ‘swatantra’, which denotes panchadasi vidhya. There is also other contenders saying this refers to vamakeswara tantram or tanta raja tantram.

Sarva tantresi – She is the guardian and presiding deity of all tantras.

Dakshinamurty rupini – She is of the form of Lord Shiva’s Guru form.

Sanakaadhi samaaradhya – This is connected with the previous name. Dhakshinamurthy is said to have tutored four rishis by name Sanakar, Sanandhanar, Sanaadhanar and Sanathkumarar, under a banyan tree, without uttering a word, purely through chin mudhra, facing South. These four are denoted here as ‘Sanaka aadhi’, meaning Sanaka and others. These four always worship Dhakshinamurthi (and hence Her as well). These four rishis founded the samaya form of worship.

Siva gnana pradhayini – She grants knowledge to Her devotees about Lord Shiva’s secret ‘sath-chith-ananda’ form. 

Chithkala – She is the power of pure consciousness and She is thus present in each and every one of us.

Ananda kalika – She is the bud (kalika) of divine bliss (Ananda), about to bloom. 

Prema rupa – She reflects the love showered by Her devotees on Her.

Priyam kari – She grants what is wished for by Her devotees.

Nama parayana preetha – She is fond of hearing Her names recited.

Nandhi vidhya – The mantras by which Nandhi worshipped Her is called Nandhi Vidhya. She is of that mantra form. Nandhi got this mantra initiated to him by Lord Shiva Himself.

Nateshwari – Consort of Lord Nataraja.

Mithya jagadh adhistana – She is the cause for this world of maya.

Mukthitha – She grants Mukthi (liberation) to Her devotees.

Mukthi rupini - She is the embodiment of such liberation.

Laasya priya – She likes dancing. ‘Laasya’ is the dance of a woman, while it is ‘thandavam’ for man.

Laya kari – She creates harmony in dance and music. She is the cause for laya, which is the higher form of meditation.

Lajja – Lajja denotes that She is modest and shy (Ya devi sarva bhoodheshu lajja rupena samsthitha).

Rambadhi vanditha – She is worshipped by all celestial beauties, divine nymphs, (Apsaras), like Ramba, Urvasi, Menaka, Tillothama, Ghritachi, Purvachitti, Gopali, Sahajanya, Chithrasena, Manorama, Vividha, Sumala, Santhathi, Sunantha, Suraja, Varga, Magathi, Druthi, Anuchana, Kamya, Shuchika, and many more. It is said that there are thousands of them. These are dancers paired to Gandharvas, such as Tumburu, Narada, Vishvavasu, Chitraratha, Chitrangatha, the celestial musicians, who entertain the gods in Indra’s court as performing artists. At the instance of gods, they seduce men to test their steadfastness.

Bhavadha Vasudha vrushtih – She showers both mukthi (Bhavatha) and material benefits (Vasutha) to Her devotees.

Papa aranya dhavaanala – She burns down the sins of Her devotees.

Daurbhagya thoola vathoola – She blows away the miseries of Her devotees like whirlwind that blows away the cotton bundles.

Jaradhva antha ravi prabha – She dispels fear of old age (Jara) like the Sun (Ravi) dispelling darkness (antha) through its rays (prabha).

Bhagyapdhi Chandrika – She brings up good fortune (bhagya) to Her devotees, like the moon makes the tides rise up during full moon day.

Bhaktha Chittha Keki Ghana Ghana – She makes the minds of Her devotees (Chittha) dance like peacocks (Keki), when they see heavily water loaded (Ghana) dark clouds (Ghana). Peacocks dance on seeing rain clouds.

Roga parvatha dhamboli – She cures the diseases (roga) of Her devotees like how the thunderbolt ('dhamboli' is Vajrayutham of Indra) would break a mountain (parvatha).

Mruthyu dhaaru kudaarikaa – She cuts off the fear of death (mruthyu), like an axe (kudaari), ('Kodaali' in Tamil) cutting a tree (dharu).

Maheswari – She is the gretest of all Goddesses.

Mahaa kali – She is Consort of Lord Maha Kaala (Shiva).

Mahaa graasa – She holds all worlds in Her (after parlaya).

Mahaa shanaa – Her mighty meal consists of the entire universe (during pralaya).

Aparna – She does not owe anything to anyone. She is without debt (arna). She clears the debts of Her devotees. It also means She is without fall (parnam). It also refers to Parvathi Devi who performed austerities (tapas), to marry Lord Shiva, without eating even a single leaf (parna). 

Chandika – She is awe inspiring, young girl of 7 years of age. She destroys evil doers.

Chanda mundaa sura nishoodhini – She is 'Chamunda', Who killed two demons, Chanda and Maunda, who were evil doers.

Kshara akshara athmika – She is the cause for perishable body (Kshara) and the Soul, which is non-perishable (Akshara). It also means that She is in the form of alphabets (Akshara) and words (Kshara).

Sarva lokeshi – She is the Goddess of all the worlds.

Visva Dharini – She holds (dharini) the universe (visva).

Thri varga dhathri – Reference is made here of first three of the four Purusharthas, (dharma, artha, kama and moksha). She grants righteousness, material wealth and fulfils all desires of all Her devotees.

Subhaga – She is auspicious and personification of good fortune.

Tryambaka – She is mother of Trimurthy’s. She has three eyes made of Sun, Moon and Fire. She has three main nadis, Ida, Pingala and Shushumna.

Trigunaathmika – She acts on us with Her three gunas, Sathva, Rajo and Thamo. All creations arose out of a combination of these three gunas, as explained elsewhere.

Svargaapavargadha – She grants unending heavenly pleasures right here on earth.

Suddha – She is very pure in knowledge (devoid of ignorance).

Japa pushpa nipa kruthih – Her complexion equals that of Hibiscus flower.

Ojovathi – She is full of zeal, vital energy. She radiates effulgence, shining forth.

Dhyuthi dhara – She is full of splendour and is majestic in appearance with great brightness and lustre.

Yagna rupa – She arose from Yagna (sidagnikunda sambootha). She is in the form of Yagna. She is the goal and enjoyer of all vedic sacrifices. 

Priyam vratha – She is fond of worship through vow (Vratha).  

Dhur araathya – It is difficult to reach and worship Her for those who are unable to control their senses.

Dhur adharsha – It is difficult to bring Her under one’s control, for those who are not sincere. It means that She will yield easily to devoted persons.

Paatali kusuma priya – She is fond of trumpet flowers (parijatham family).

Mahathi – She is greater than the greatest, the cosmic intelligence.

Meru nilaya – She resides in Sri Chakra. Meru is a three-dimensional form of Sri Chakra, as explained elsewhere. Hence, it is said that She resides in Meru. Earlier nama describes Her as “Sumeru madhya sringastha”. After She defeated demon Bandasura, the gods were pleased and the divine builder, Viswakarma, built Srinagaram, a special abode for Her on top of Meru mountain. Meru also refers to Shushumna (Meru dhanda), the spinal chord, which is the path taken by Kundalini sakthi. 

Mandara kusuma priya – She is fond of mandharam flower (Erythrina stricta). It is one of the five trees found in Heaven, others being parijatham, samtanakam, harischandanam (Sandal) and kalpa vriksham. 

(For more details on the holy trees in Hinduism one can refer the link:https://www.esamskriti.com/e/Culture/Indian-Culture/Sacred-Trees-Of-The-Hindus-1.aspx)

Veera aradhya – She is worshipped by great warriors. Here warriors should be understood to mean those holy men who have bravely defeated their ego and realised their Self within.

Virad rupa – Virad or Virat or Viraj is the name for the sum total of all that emanated from Her after completing all creations. Sometimes it is called ‘Viswa roopam’, the grand universal form. She is of Virat form.

Viraja – ‘Rajas’ is a guna which is impure. She is Viraja, that is, She is pure, without mix.

Visvathomukhi – Since She resides everywhere, She has faces all over. She resides in everyone of us and She has therefore many faces.

Prathyag rupa – She cannot be seen by our naked eyes. She can only be realised when we look inward with a pure mind. ‘prathyag’ refers to inward meditation. This is opposite of ‘bahirmuka’, which is ourward prayers. She reveals only during constant inward meditative practice.

Para akaasa – Macrocosam is similar to microcosam. What is outside is also inside. Similar to the space (aakasaa) in the universe, there is a space within in our minds, known as ‘paraakasaa’. When we look inward we would be able to see Her subtle form as paraakasaa. 

Praanatha – She is the giver of our prana or our breath. Prana is five-fold: “Prana, Apana, Vyana, Udana and Samana”. They control respiration, evacuation of waste, blood circulation, physical outbursts (like vomiting, sneezing, crying) and digestion, respectively. Like Paraakasa, Prana is also subtle energy and hence considered as a form of Brahman.

Praana rupini – She is embodiment of Praana itself. 

Marthaanda bhairava radhya – She is worshipped by Marthanda bhiarava, a form of Lord Shiva. While Lord Narayana is worshipped as ten avataras or incarnations, Shiva is worshipped in twenty-five forms. Bhairava is one of them.

Mantrini Devi

Manthrini nyastha rajya dhuh – She has appointed Manthrini to look after Her Rajyam or kingdom, the entire Universe. Manthrini is Shyamala Devi. The subtle meaning could be that those who recite Her mantras would become eligible for rajya paripaalanam or managing kingdoms.

Thripuresi – She is known as Tripuresi in the Sarvaasaparipuraha aavarana in Sri Chakra. Consort of Lord Shiva Who burnt Tripura.

Jayath sena – She has an army, which wins over demons.

Nisthrai gunya – She is devoid of the three gunas (satva, rajo and thamo gunas). This is Her pure form prior to creation. After creation, She becomes ‘Trigunaathmika’ – a mixture of these three gunas, which gives rise to variations in creation, as Maya.

Para apara – As explained above, She is with and without purity. Which means that all things in the universe, both good (para) and bad (apara) are Her forms. She is of the form of all opposites, friends and foe, good and bad, beauty and ugly, highest and lowest, far and near, pure and impure, etc. Yoga sastra explains three types of wisdom – para, apara and parapara.

Sathya gnaana ananda rupa – She is of the form of Sath (truth), Chit (knowledge), Ananda (bliss). Yet another statement that She is Brahman.

Saamarasya paraayanaa – ‘Saamarasya’ means equality. She is equal in powers to Lord Shiva. She is the power (sakthi) of the Lord.

Kapardhini – She is consort of Lord Shiva, whose matted hair is called ‘kapardham’. It is said that ganga waters are holy because it flows through Shiva’s hairs and gets sanctified.

Kala maala – She wears all 64 arts or skills (kalaa) as Her garland. She also has Akshara maala, made of 52 sanskrit alphabets, 16 vowels and 36 consonants. 

Kama dhuk – She is of the from of Kaamadenu cow and grants all wishes of Her devotees.

Kaama rupini – She is of the form of Lord Kameswara. They are called so, when They desire and indulge in universal creations. She is Jaganmaathaa.

Kala nidhi – She is the treasure house of all activities (Kala) leading to creations and control.

Kaavya kala – She is of the from of poetic skill, which creates great epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Rasakgjna - She is the essence of ten sentiments (rasa), namely, love, resentment, anger, wonder, fear, grace, smile, kindness, contentment and fondness, all in one.

Rasa sevadhih – She is the essence of joy or bliss.

This completes 800 names.

Pushta – She is full of vigour and energy, Pushti means ‘in best of physical and mental health’.

Puradhana – She is the eldest of all, meaning She is the first to come out of Brahman during ‘srishti’.

Poojya – Worthy of worship by all.

Pushkara – She is lovely like a fully bloomed lotus flower.

Pushkarekshana – She has beautiful eyes like a lotus flower.

Paramjyothi –She is of the form of illuminating Supreme divine light (jyothi).

Paramdhaama – She is of Supreme abode (dhama) that houses everything that exists.

Paramaanuh – She is the (sub-atomic) God particle or the building blocks.

Parathpara – She is Supreme to even Lords Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Paasa hastha – She holds the mystical noose in Her hands. It could also mean that She removes all worldly attachments and grants knowledge of Brahman.

Pasa hanthri – She destroys all worldly desires.

Para mantra vibhedini – She destroys the evil powers of bad mantras of enemies.

Moortha – She has a Shape or form.

Amoortha – She has no shape or form. She is also subtle.

Anithya thruptha – She is satisfied (thrupta) even with our perishable (anithya) offerings. It follows that She will be more satisfied with permanent offerings, like mantras.

Muni manasa hamsika – She is like the mythical hamsa bird, floating in the maanasarovar (lake of mind) of sages.

Sathya vratha – She is vowed to Truth. Truth is Brahman. Hence, She is truly Brahman.

Sathya rupa – She is Truth personified.

Sarva anthar yamini – She resides inside everyone.

Sathi – She is the devoted Consort of Lord Shiva.

Brahmaani – She is of the form of Saraswathi, the Consort of Brahma. (Shivaani means Consort of Shiva).

Brahma Janani – She is the mother of entire creations.

Bahu rupa – She has many forms. The entire universe is Her form, not only material forms such as beings, but also subtle forms like kundalini energy, sound (subda brahman) and light energy etc.

Bhudha architha – She is worshipped by the wise ones.

Prasavithri – She has given birth to the entire universe.

Prachanda – She is Chandi, the angry one, who enforces strict discipline.

Agjna – She imposes strict commands.

Prathishta – She is the basis or foundation for all creations.

Prakata kruthih – She is manifested in all beings as ego or self. She is visible (prakata) to all beings through Her various maifestations.

Praaneswari – She is the Goddess of all five praanaas.

Praanadhathri – She grants praana and keeps all beings alive.

Panchasath peeta rupini – She has fifty sakthi peetams or temples where She appears in different forms. This also refers to the Sanskrit alphabets where She resides as subda brahman. Madurai Meenakshi is often referred to be of this form and a parrot recites vedas on Her ears always.

For a lovely song on this Nama, by Sri Muthuswami Dheekshidar, please click the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfk1IDKaTRQ

Vishrunkhala – ‘shrunkhala’ means bonding chain. She is without any bondage.

Vivikthastha – She manifests in places where there is (1) many minds in a pure and focused environment, like in a prayer hall and (2) an environment not so pure but a steadfast and focused mind of an individual. ‘Viviktha’ means secret and lonely place like the minds of the wise men. She resides there secretly.

Veera maatha – She is mother of warriors; it could mean warrior god Muruga and Ganesa.

Viyat prasuh – She is the source of Viyat, the element Aakash, from which all other elements came out. Akash (viyat) came out of Her (Brahman), then air came out of aakash, fire from air, water from fire and earth from water. 

Mukuntha – She grants salvation (mukthitha). One who grants mukthi is called as ‘mukuntha’.  She is Vishnu rupini.

Mukthi nilaya – After granting mukti, She absorbs the jeeva into Her ‘Self’ and grants them a permanent abode (Nilaya). This can be obtained through five kinds of mukti paths, namely, saalokya, saamibya, saarupya, saayujya and kaivalya. Salokya means to understand God consciousness and living in the same plane (loka), which is the first step to salvation. Samibya is getting nearer to God, the second step. Sarupya is getting identity of appearance (rupa) with the Lord, becoming Godly in appearance, the third step. Sayujya is realising the Supreme bliss but still not achieving divine union, the penultimate step. Kaivalya is the ultimate permanent union with Brahman. Except Kaivalya, all other forms of Moksha are not permanent (which means that the soul will get back to rebirth after enjoying the fruits). She is capable of granting permanent Kaivalya position to Her devotees.

Moola vigraha rupini – She is the root of all sakthi deities. She is Moolaprakruthi.

Bhaavagjna – She is the knower of different attitudes (bhaavaa) of people expressing their relationship with Her, whether the person is in a servant mode, a friend, a motherly or a loving mode. People approach Her with different Bhaavaas depending on their mind set. She can easily understand their mano bhaavaa of bhakthi.

Bhava rohagni – ‘Bhava’ here refers to ‘samsaaraa’ and is compared to a disease. She helps people to get over their miseries in worldly life.

Bhava chakra pravarthini – She guides (pravarthini) all of us in getting over the difficulties faced in samsara (bhava) chakra, the wheel of worldly life.

Chandas saara – She is the essence of vedic hymns.

Sastra saara – She is the essence of ritual instructions.

Mantra saara – She is the essence of all mantras.

Talodhari – She has a very slender (talo) waist (udhara).

Udhaara kirthih – Her keerti is spread all over.

Ruddhaama vaibhava – She has boundless might and glory.

Varna rupini – She is of the form of alphabets (Matruka varna rupini).

Janma mruthyu jara thaptha-jana visranthi dhayini – She gives solace (visranthi) to people (jana) afflicted (thaptha) with birth (janma), death (mruthyu) and old age (jara).

Sarvopanishadhudhgushta – (Sarva Upanishad ud gushta) – All Upanishads speak of Her glory. ‘Ud gushta’ means ‘speak highly of’.

Shantyathithaa kalaathmika – She is of the form of ‘shantatheeyatham’, which is the final stage in mukthi before ‘nirvana’, complete union with Brahman.

Gambhira – She is grand, stands tall.

Gaganaanthastha – ‘Gaganam’ means Akash or space. She permeates space. It also represents all five elements, starting with Akash.

Garvitha – She is the pride of Shiva.

Gaana lolupa – She is fond of songs. It covers all kinds of music - vocal, instrumental, vedic songs of Saama (veda) gana, et al.

Kalpana rahitha – She does not have any imaginations. If you read it as “kalpa nara hitha”, it means She who protects humans during kalpa or pralaya.

Kaashta – She is the Supreme goal for Her devotees.

Akaantha – ‘Akaam’ means sin. She removes sin.

Kanthaardha vigraha – ‘kantha’ refers to husband. ‘ardha vigraha’ means half body. She is of ‘Ardhanari’ swaroopam.

Kaarya karana nirmuktha – She is beyond cause and effect.

Kama keli tharangitha – When She is with Lord Shiva (Kama), She enjoys divine Love (keli), which flows like waves (tharanga).

Kanath kanaka thaadanga – Her ear rings are made of glittering gold.

Leela vigraha dharini – She playfully assumes many forms.

Ajaa – She is devoid of births. She is unborn. She has no beginning.

Kshaya vinirmuktha – she is devoid of death or decay. She has no end.

Muktha- She is full of Soundaryam. She is liberated.

Kshipra prasadini – She grants devotees’ wishes quickly.

Anthar mukha samaradhya – She can be reached easily if we look inward.

Bahir mukha sudhurlabha -  It is difficult to reach Her through outward prayers, without control of our senses.

Trayee – She is of the form of three vedas – Rig, Yajur and Sama. Another explanation is that She is of the form of Vagbhava bheejam, ‘Aim’, which is called ‘Trayee’.

Trivargha nilaya – She is implicit in three-fold aim of life, dharma, artha and kama.

Tristha – She resides in all that is in triads.

Tripura maalini – She is called ‘tripura malini’ in the antardasaaram (inner ten) in Sri Chakra. 

Niraamaya – She is not afflicted with veiling (maya).

Niraalamba – She does not depend on ayone. 

Sva athmaa raama – She enjoys Her own aathma, which is Shiva.

Sudha sruthih – She is the cause for the flow of nector (sudha) in Sahasrara chakra.

Samsaara panka nirmagna samuddharana panditha – She rescues us from getting entangled in the ocean of samsara, the materialistic life.

Yagna priya – She is fond of sacrificial offerings from devotees.

Yagjna karthri – She supports in performing sacrificial offerings.

Yajamana swaroopini – ‘Yajamana’ is one who performs the sacrificial rites. She assumes that form, as Consort of Lord Rudra, the form of Fire. 

Dharma aadhara – She is the foundation of dharma- righteousness.

Dhanaadh yaksha – She is of the form of Gupera, an Yaksha, the God of wealth. Gupera is a staunch devotee of Sri Vidhya.

Dhana dhaanya vivardhini – She enhances the wealth of Her devotees. Here wealth refers to both materials (dhanam) and granneries (dhaanyam).

Vipra priyaa – ‘vipra’ refers to those who are knowledgeable in Sri Vidhya and veda sastras. She is very fond of them.

Vipra rupaa – There is no difference between a Vipra and Her. She is of the from of a Vipra.

Visva bhramana kaarini – She creates, sustains and dissolves the universal activities.

Visva graasa – She consumes all that is created (at the time of dissolution).

Vidhrumaabhaa – She has a (red) complexion like a coral (vidhruma). Another meaning is that She is like a tree (vidhruma) of knowledge. Knowledge gets passed on from one to another, like a tree passing on the seeds.

Vaishnavi – She is the mother of Vishnu, hence She belongs to Vishnu cult. (see ‘Karaangulira uthpanna naarayana dasaa kruthih’ – She created the ten avatars from Her finger nails)

Vishnu rupini – She is no different from Vishnu. Krishna rupam is Her male form. Mohini rupam is Vishnu’s female form. It is said that Vishnu prayed to Devi to give Him a female form to defeat demons and She came out of Vishnu as Mohini. It is said that She assumes different postures; during bhoga with Shiva, She is Bhavaani; during a war, She is Durga; when angry, She is Kaali; when She becomes male, She is Vishnu. They both are brother-sister as well as mother-son.

Ayonih – She has no source of origin.

Yoni nilaya – She is the source of creation. She resides in the central triangle in the Sri Chakram. 

Kootastha – She resides in vagbhava and other kootams.

Kula rupini – ‘Kulam’ refers to mooladharam, koula margam, vamsam etc. She is of that forms.

Veerakoshti priya – She likes the company (koshti) of Sri Vidhya followers (veera).

Veera – ‘veera’ refers to warriors, Sri Vidhya upaasakars and also it refers to women endowed with husband and children. She is of that form.

Naishkarmya – She is free from karmic effects.

This completes 900 names.

Naadha rupini – ‘naadham’ is sound. She is pranava swaroopini. 

Vigjnana kalana – She gives Brahma gjnanam (knowledge of Brahman) to Her devotees.

Kalya – She is skilled in all arts (kalaa).

Vidhagdha – She is very shrewd and skilful.

Baindavaasana – She is seated on Bindu as aasana (seat) in the centre of Sri Chakram. 

Tatthvaathika – She is superior to all tattvas.

Tattvamayee – She is of the form of all 36 tattvas.

Tat twam artha swaroopini – She is the meaning of maha vaakyam – ‘tat twam asi’.

Saama gaana priya – She is fond of Sama veda ganam (recital). The Saptha swaras are said to have emanated from Sama Veda's musical notes.

So(u)mya – Consort of Soma, Shiva. If it is pronounced as ‘Sowmya’, it means very peaceful and beautiful person.

Sada shiva kudumbini – Consort of Sada Shiva.

Savya apasavya margastha – She is worshiped through right handed path (savya) and through left handed (apasavya) paths. We have discussed in detail elsewhere regarding this.

Sarva apadvi nivarini – ‘apad’ means dangers (‘aapatthu’ in Tamil). She saves Her devotees from the bad effects of dangers and misfortunes.

Svasthaa – She is self-contained and stable.

Svabhaava madhura – Her sweet nature is liked by all. 

Dheeraa – She is daring, high on knowledge.

Dheera sama archithaa – She is worshipped by the knowledgeable.

Chaitanya argya sama araadhyaa – She is to be worshipped by identifying self with Brahman.

Chaithanya kusuma priya – She is fond of the ‘flower’ (kusumam) of Chaitanya (knowledge of Brahman). She is much pleased when worshipped with eight ‘flowers’, namely, (1) Non-violence – Ahimsa pushpam, (2) control of senses – Indriyani nigraha pushpam, (3) being compassionate to all – Sarva bhootha dhaya pushpam, (4) forgiving – kshama pushpam, (5) by gaining knowledge of Brahman (Chaitanya kusamam), (6) doing meditation - dhyana pushpam, (7) being truthful - sathya pushpam and (8) showing humility – vinaya pushpam.

Sadhodhitha – She is always shining like the raising sun.(Sadha Udhitha)

Sadha thushta – She is always contended.

Tharun adhitya paatala – Her complexion is a mixture of White and red colour,  like the morning sun.

Dhakshina adhakshina aradhya – She is worshipped by both right handed as well as left handed practices.

Dara smera mukha ambuja – Her lotus face is lit with the grace of Her smile.

Kaulini kevala – She is the ultimate purpose of Kaula form of Sri Vidhya worship.

Anargya kaivalya padha dhayini – She grants invaluable (anargya) kaivalya mukthi.

Sthothra priya – This text is full of praise of Lalitha Devi. It praises Her in many ways including Her features, characters, valour, etc, praying for Her favour at the same time. All these are a type of ‘sthothram’, which are ‘loukikam’ or materialistic. There is another one involving mantras in praise of Her, seeking knowledge. She is fond of both but can differentiate between the two.

Sthuthimathi – She grants knowledge when thus praised.

Sruthi samsthutha vaibhava – She is experienced (samsthutha) through vedas (sruthi).

Manasvini – She has a free will. She is not controlled by anyone.

Manavathi – She has a motherly mindset to forbear, be patient and forgive.

Mahesi – Consort of Maheswara. 

Mangala akruthih – She is embodiment of auspiciousness.

Visva matha – She is the mother of all beings.

Jagaddhaathri – She supports the world.

Visalakshi – She has long eyes, full of mercy, offering abhaya (dispelling fear).

Viragini – She is full of vairagya, rid of passion or addiction.

Prakalpa - She is bold, resolute, without fear.

Paramodhara – ‘parama udhaaraa’ means, She generously grants more than what the devotees wished for.

Para amodha – She is serene, peaceful and full of joy.

Manomayee – She is of the form of divine consciousness.

Vyomakesi – She is Consort of Vyomakesa, Lord Shiva, Who has the sky as His hair.

Vimaanastha – She is seated high in celestial vehicle, Chakraraja ratham.

Vajrini – She holds the Vajrayutham, the mighty armour in Her hands to destroy evil. She is said to have given it to Indra to maintain his kingdom.

Vaamakeswari – She is worshipped by vamakeswara tantram.

Pancha yagjna priya – She is fond of five types of offerings, namely, Deva yagjna (worship of gods), Pitru yagjna (worship of forefathers), Manushya yagjna (worship of fellow humans), Bhuta yagjna (worship of other living beings) and Brahma Yagjna (worship of the ultimate).

Pancha predha manchaadhi sayini – She is seated on a bed on the lap of Sadashiva, with Brahma, Vishnu Shiva and Easwara as the four legs to the cot. All these five Gods are said to be powerless (pretha) without Her.

Thirumoolar also contributes to this thought:

அவளை அறியா அமரரும் இல்லை

அவளன்றிச் செய்யும் அருந்தவம் இல்லை

அவளன்றி ஐவரால் ஆவதொன்று இல்லை

அவளன்றி ஊர்புகு மாறறி யேனே. - 1053

Panchami – She is of the form of ’Vaaraahi’, who is also called Panchami, as She is fifth of the Sapta (seven) matrukas.

Pancha bhoodhesi – She is the Goddess of five elements, Akash, Air, Fire, Water and Earth.

Pancha sankhya upacharini – She is worshipped with five kinds of upacharas or revential greetings, which are in turn connected with pancha bhoodhas, namely, (1) sandal paste (gandha) which is connected with earth element in view of its solid nature and smell, (2) Flowers (Pushpam) which is connected with aakash, (3) incense (Dupam), which is connected with Air, (4) Light (deepam), which is connected with Fire element and (5) milk (nivedyam), which is connected with water element.

Saaswathi – She is without end, permanent, eternal, perpetual.

Saaswathaichwarya – She is eternally prosperous.

Sarmadha – She grants all comforts. And happiness.

Sambhu mohini – She is loved by Lord Shiva.

Dharaa – She is Earth (prithvi) on which all beings rest. She carries all.

Dhara sudha – She is daughter of Earth (Himalayas), Parvathi, daughter of Himavan.

Dhanya – She is Supremely blessed, showing kindness to all beings and granting wealth.

Dharmini – She is upholder of righteousness.

Dharmavardhini – She promotes righteousness in devotees.

Lokaadhitha – She lives in Kailash which is far away.

Gunaadhitha – She is beyond all three gunas – sattva, rajas and thamas.

Sarvaadhitha – She is beyond everything.

Samaathmika – She is embodiment of shanti, peace.

Bhanduka kusuma prakya – She is red as the Bhanduka (bhandujiva) flower – “pentapetes phoenicea”. 

Baalaa – She is of the form of a nine-year-old girl, Balambika, who killed son of Bhandasura.

Leela vinodhini – She likes playing with Her creations.

Sumangali – She is most auspicious in Herself. 

Sukhakari – She does things which give comfort (sukham) to devotees.

Suveshatya – She is adorned (vesham) gracefully with clothing, decorations, garlands etc.

Suvaasini – She is ‘Deerga sumangali’, as Lord Shiva exists even after pralaya, She is always a sumangali.

Suvasini archana preetha – She is fond of worship by Suvasini’s. Suvasini Pooja is a main part of Devi worship.

Aashobhana – She is extremely beautiful, ‘Soundarya’.

Suddha maanasaa – She has a clean and clear mindset.

Bindhu tharpana samdhushta – She is pleased by offerings made in the Bindhusthan in Sri Chakra.

Purvaja – She existed even before Srishti (creation) began. She is the eldest.

Tripurambika – She is of the from of Tripuambika of eighth aavarana in Sri Chakra.

Dasa mudhra samaradhya – She is worshipped with ten types of hand gestures, known as, Samkshobana, dhraavana, aakarshana, vasya, unmaadhana, mahaangusa, kesari, bija, yoni and thrikanta Mudras.

Thripura Sri vasamkari – She attracts Thripura Sri, who in the fifth aavarana in Sri Chakra.

Gjnana mudra Gjnana gamya- She can be reached through pure knowledge.

Gjnyana gjneya swaroopini – She is of the form of pure knowledge as well as that which is known, i.e. the Brahman.

Yoni mudra – She is of the form of Yoni mudra, the 9^th mudra.

Thrikhantesi – This is the tenth mudra. She is of that from.

Thriguna – She is of the from of Sattva, Rajas, Thamo gunas.

Amba – She is the Mother of all creations.

Trikonaga – She resides in central triangle in Sri Chakra.

Anagha – She is devoid of grievous sins.

Adhbhutha chaarithra – She has marvellous tales of valour.

Vaanchitha artha pradhayini – She grants all the material wishes of Her devotees.

Abhyaas aathisaya jnaatha – She can be known through constant and rigorous (aathiaya) practice (abhyas).

Shada adhva atheetha rupini – She can be reached after performing six types of  Sri Chakra worship, namely, Varnam, padam, mantram, kala, tattvam and bhuvanam. These six paths are known as “shad adhva”. Since She is reachable only after these six paths, She is termed as being beyond (atheetha) these six. Another explanation is that She recommends six paths of worship (Shanmatham), recommended by Sri Adi Shankara, namely, worship of Shiva, Vishnu, Sakthi, Surya, Ganapathy and Shanmuga.

Avyaja karuna murthih – She is unconditionally compassionate, without any pretention. She is truly merciful.

Agjnana dhwantha deepika – She is the light (deepika or knowledge), which dispels darkness (agjnanam).

Aabaala gopa vidhitha – She can be easily understood even by a child (baala) or a cowherd (gopa). This means that She is attainable to all. Even if one does not know mantra, yantra or tantra paths, pure bhakthi (devotion) is sufficient to reach Her. 

Sarvaa nullangya saasana – Everyone, including the gods, have to obey Her rules (saasana), the laws of nature,. She decides their functions during creation, dissolution and recreation.

Sri Chakra Raja nilaya – She resides in the kingdom of Sri Chakra.

Srimath thripura sundari – The most beautiful divine form in all three worlds.

Sri Shiva – she is also called Shiva, the Consort of Lord Shiva. She is Shiva himself.

Shiva Sakthyikya rupini -  She is embodiment of Union (aikya) of Shiva and Sakthi.

Laltha ambika – We salute Her, our Mother, Sri Lalitha.

This completes 1000 names.

ESOTERIC MEANINGS:

I have given above, only the apparent meanings of the 1000 Nama, as this will do for us. There are secretive meanings for each one of the names, for which you have to refer to the bhashyam of saints like Adi Shankara or Bhaskara Raya. The starting letters of every 100th name, the number of letters in each name, the numerical significance, the alternate Sanskrit meanings, the split up of words differently - all have esoteric significance with deeper meanings. Hence this is called Rahasya Stotram, having philosophical and spiritual concepts embedded in these names.

We can recite this as a shloka, or perform an Archana with kumkumam. Few devotees also perform yagna with ghee offerings. Many devotees recite this during Purnima day.

There is a phala Sruthi, which explains the benefits of reciting the namavali. However, I would defer from exhibiting this, since it would be better to pray with open mind and receive Her Prasad, than to seek specific relief. Unlike other Sahasranamas, where Phala Sruthi form the final part, the L.S. has its phala Sruthi spelt separately in Markandeya Purana.

Sri Lalitha Trisathi Maha Mantram

Please use the following video link to listen to the most powerful mantra of Sri Lalitha, as told by Sri Haygriva to Saint Agastya, who became fully satisfied after hearing this mantra.  Don't treat these 300 nama of Sri Laliths as mere names of goddess, since this is made from the powerful panchashdakshari mantra, which is 15 lettered. Each of this 15 Aksharas or letters form the first letters of 20 names each, forming 300 in all. It is considered the most satisfying of all. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmnwaoA-HCw

Ratna Traya

The three works on Sakthi, namely, Adi Shankara’s Soundarya Lahari, Sage Durvasa’s Arya Dwishati (Lalitha Stava Ratnam) and Mooka Kavi’s Mooka Panchasati are considered as Ratna triads or three gems by Kanchi Mahaswami. The meaning of 100 slakas of Soundarya Lahari is explained in my next blog. For the other two, readers may refer the following works:

-Arya Dwishati by Sage Durvasar (Ref: www.Kamakotimandali.com)

-Sakthi Mahimna Stotram (The prayer of the greatness of Sakthi)

 by Sage Durvasa Translated by P.R. Ramachander

-Arya satakam By Mooka Kavi Translated by P.R. Ramachander (Ref: stotraratna.satyasaibababrotherhood.org)

MAHALAKSHMI

May you be blessed with all wealth and health:

Hear the recital of Sri Suktam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThznwYxJ8po

Will meet you soon with meaning of "Soundarya Lahari" by Sri Adi Sankara.

Ohm Shanti

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