Devi and the king

[1]

Raji P. Shrivastava [1]

A quintessential spring festival, Vasant Navratri involves a marvellous mix of fasting, feasting, praying and rejoicing. The legends surrounding this period of nine nights that fall in the month of Chaitra (March-April) centre on the Mother Goddess Durga. But there is also a significant element of nature worship and veneration of Ram, the prince of Ayodhya, who was an incarnation of Vishnu. The ninth day of the Chaitra month is Ram Navami.

Durga is a synthesis of the shaktis of all the gods who gave her their powers and attributes so that she could vanquish the demons and bring peace to the three worlds. In awe and gratitude, Indra (Shakra) and the devas showered floral offerings with lyrical words that form part of a celebrated hymn called the Shakraadaya Stuti:
“Mother, how do we find words to describe your limitless glories, your formidable strengths and the fascinating episodes that marked your victorious odyssey on the battlefield?” (Kim varnayaama tava roopam achintyam, 4:6, Shri Durga Saptashati.)
The rishis instinctively recognise Durga’s prowess: “It is not that you could not have burnt these rakshasas to ashes with just one glance of your eyes. But they too had to be cleansed by battle-contact with your auspicious weapons to attain happier worlds. This intention of yours towards even your foes and dreaded sinners is most noble”(4:19).
The devotee also seeks to overcome the evils of laziness, jealousy and dishonesty. When the benevolence of the warrior-mother towards the undeserving demons is evident, how can her blessing to mankind be in doubt?
Devi prapannaarti hare praseeda,
Praseeda maatar jagatoakhilasya
Praseeda vishweshwari pahi vishvam,
Tvamiishwari devi characharasya.
(You destroy the troubles of those who seek refuge in you, O mother of the entire universe, so protect us, be merciful and stay happy with us for ever!” 11:3)
If the majestic aura of Durga beckons all, the fascinating life-story or charitam of Ram is just as ennobling and enchanting. As the unswerving upholder of dharma in the face of the fiercest obstacles, he is a role model for kings, philosophers, homemakers and students alike. One finds a beautiful description of the power of the Lord in this verse:
Bharjanam bhava beejanaam, arjanam sukha sampadaam
Tarjanam yamadootaanaam, raama raameti garjanam.
(The cry, Ram, Ram, is enough to fry the seeds of samsara-bondage, scatter the messengers of Yama and reap the fruits of happiness and prosperity”.)

Through such thoughts we connect to that which is good around and within us.

Raji P. Srivastava can be reached at raji_1992@yahoo.co.in