Sunday, November 24, 2024

Boise Tuesday Chant Group

 

Everyone is welcome to chant along with the videos posted here!

This post was created for the Tuesday Chant Group that meets in Boise. Since we won’t be meeting from now until January 7, 2025, group members wanted a way to chant during the holiday hiatus. This post provides opportunity to chant any/every day whenever you like.

The two sections correspond to our Tuesday practice, first the Bija Mantras of the Chakras, second the Sa Ta Na Ma (Kirtan Kriya) Meditation Chant, the eleven-minute version.

I have found three versions of each; a nice variety of animated version (not cartoon), a real-person version, and some with pictures only, no people.

There is a bonus video at the end. Since we talked in group about the full chakra chanting practice of the sounds/mantras of all the lotus petals, I’ve included a video of that as well. It was fun to find it, and is just for your enjoyment, there are no plans to expand our practice to include it.

We always start with a few deep breaths to center and be in the moment.

Please choose one video from each section and enjoy!


Bija Mantras (Seed Sounds) of the Seven Chakras Lam Vam Ram Yam Ham AUM


Daily Bija Mantra Chanting for Chakra Balancing and Activation – 5 repetitions per chakra with Ahhh at crown chakra, pictures for each chakra – 9:45


All 7 Chakras Healing Chants (Chakra Seed Mantra Meditation) – led by three men doing hand gestures (mudras), Ahhh at crown chakra – 21:20


Healing Chakra Chants | 3 Mins Per Chakra | Seed Sound Mantra Meditation – led by a woman, chanting starts at 7-minute mark, silence at crown chakra – 31:36



SA TA NA MA – Kirtan Kriya – Practice


Kirtan Kriya Meditation – animated with finger movements – 11:30


12 Minute Kirtan Kriya Practice – person with finger movements – 12:52


Kirtan Kriya - 11 min Satanama Kundalini Meditation – landscape with nature sounds and quiet gong between segments – 12:22



BONUS

Remember we talked about a full chakra-chanting practice that included the sounds that are on the petals of the chakra lotuses? That’s what this is. This is strictly for your enjoyment. At only eight minutes, I don’t think it’s long enough to evoke a trance state, but it’s very soothing, and if you like, you can focus on the area of the body that corresponds to each chakra as the letters are chanted. You’ll know by the colors on the screen, they don’t directly follow bottom-to-top order, but do use the Western scheme of Red – Root, Orange – Sacral, Yellow – Solar Plexus, Green – Heart, Turquoise Blue – Throat, Purple – Forehead so you’ll know where to focus.


This is called Akshara Mala Japam – Meditation on Sanskrit Sounds in Human Body- Akshara (Letters, syllables; imperishable, indestructible) Mala (String of beads used in chanting) Japam (Chant, repetition, usually with beads)


Brave AI summary:

Aksharamala japam

AksharaMala Japam, also known as Shat Chakra Japam, is a form of meditation that involves the physiological manifestation of the Sanskrit Alphabet in the human body. This practice is rooted in the concept that the Sanskrit Alphabet is eternal and indestructible, comprising 51 letters.

Key Components:

  • Placement of the 51 Sanskrit letters in specific locations within the body, such as:

    • Vowels (16) around the neck

    • Consonants (12) around the chest

    • Consonants (10) around the waist

    • Consonants (6) around the yoni (outside the uterus)

    • Consonants (4) around the entrance to the uterus

    • Consonants (2) in the right and left eyes

  • Japa (repetition) of the letters, either by touch or using a vibrator, in a specific sequence:

    • From base to crown, through the centers of the chakras (7)

    • Using the mantra of a deity at these locations (except for Sarasvati)

Benefits:

  • Calmness and blissfulness

  • Increased awareness of the body and its energies

  • Potential for spiritual growth and self-realization

Practice Tips:

  • Start with a regular practice routine, ideally 21 days or more

  • Focus on the sensations and feelings in the body as you place and repeat the letters

  • Be patient and gentle with yourself, as this practice requires dedication and attention

  • Consider seeking guidance from a qualified guru or teacher for a deeper understanding of the practice

Note: AksharaMala Japam is a complex and subtle practice that requires a thorough understanding of Sanskrit and the human body’s energy centers. It is essential to approach this practice with respect and caution, and to consult with a qualified guru or teacher if you are new to this practice.



Meditation on Sanskrit Sounds in Human Body- AksharaMala Japam – 8:40

Saturday, September 2, 2023

2023 09 07 Krishna Janmashtami - Birthday of Krishna

Krishna Janmashtami on September 6 or 7

Both as it turns out, starts the evening of the 6th, ends on the 7th.










The holy festival of Janmashtami is celebrated annually with much pomp across the nation. Also known as Gokulashtami, Shrikrishna Jayanti, Krishnasthami, and Krishna Janmashtami, the festival falls on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapad.

Janmashtami marks Lord Krishna's birth anniversary. On this day, devotees of Lord Krishna worship his toddler form, called Bal Gopal and Laddu Gopal.


10 videos play for 59 minutes


1 पुत्र प्राप्ति के लिए हर रोज सुबह सुने : Krishna Chalisa | Krishna Ji Ke Bhajan | Krishna Bhajan 10:31

Singer/Composer:- Rakesh Kala

2 मेरे घर आजा कान्हा | Krishna Janmashtami Song | Janmashtami Bhajan | Laddu Gopal Ke Bhajan 6:49

Singer: Aman-Shivam

3 लड्डू गोपाल मेरा लड्डू गोपाल - Laddu Gopal Mera - Pappu Sharma Khatu Wale - Janmashtami 2022 5:30

Singer - Pappu Sharma Khatu Wale

4 एक बार सुन लिया तो हर जगह ढूँढते फिरोगे इस भजन को | Krishna Janmashtami Bhajan | Saurabh Madhukar 4:21

Singer: Saurabh Madhukar

5 जन्माष्टमी भजन | माखन मिश्री में क्या बल है जिसमें कान्हा मगन है | Krishna Bhajan | Simran Rathore 5:53

Singer Simran Rathore

6 JANMASHTAMI DANCE/ SHRI KRISHNA GOVIND HARE MURARI/ simplified level choreography/RADHAKRISHNA 2:31

7 Janmo Hai Aaj Kanhai | कृष्ण जन्म भजन | krishna Janmashtami Bhajan | Kanha Janam Song | New Song 4:23

Singer - Charu Khanijo

8 नैनन में श्याम समाए गयो | Janmashtami Special bhajan| Nainan mein Shyam |Sanatana Sankirtan 4:32

Singers : Shyam Bihari Das (Shivam Chaurasia) , Jay Shree Devi Dasi (Yashi Parihar)

9 Bhajo Giridhara, Govinda, Gopala SPECIAL SANKIRTAN BHAJAN FOR JANMASHTAMI PREM MANDIR 5:32

10 Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari || श्री कृष्ण गोविंद हरे मुरारी || Shri krishna Bhakti bhajan 7:29

ARTIST Mridul Krishna Shastri




Playlist URL

 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMd82-oUHI2n1smGAUx1mcFl


Monday, May 30, 2022

Usnisa Vijaya Dharani - Purifying All Evil Paths

I was introduced to this lovely woman's chants and songs yesterday. Her name is Tinna Tinh. In watching her YouTube channel, I discovered the Usinsa Vidjaya Dharani and immediately felt the need to share widely. I sincerely hope that you will play this every day at whatever time you feel is suitable - I suggest morning - because putting this purifying energy into the world is a wonderful thing for all beings. 

If you want to learn to chant along, the Sanskrit text is below (along with English translation). It's rather long, but quite beautiful. Of course, chanting yourself isn't necessary to the energy being sent into the world by playing the video, it will offer many blessings and purifying energies just by playing it. 

Today is a New Moon Day, a good day to start something positive! 



The following information has been compiled from several sources. 

The purpose of this Mahayana sutra is said to be to help sentient beings in a tumultuous and troubled world.

Usnisa Vijaya Dharani (Purifying All Evil Paths). It can eliminate all evil karmic obstacles and eradicate the suffering of all evil paths…

Usnisa Vijaya Dharani prayer lyrics:

”Namo bhagavate trailokya prativiśiṣṭaya buddhaya bhagavate.
Tadyatha, om, visodhaya visodhaya, asama-sama
Samantavabhasa-spharaṇa gati gahana svabhava visuddhe,
Abhisincatu mam. sugata vara vacana amṛta abhisekai maha mantra-padai.
Ahara ahara ayuh saṃ-dharaṇi. śodhaya sodhaya gagana svabhava visuddhe.
Usnisa vijaya visuddhe sahasra-rasmi sam-codite.
Sarva tathagata aparimaṇe sat-paramita-paripuranni.
Sarva tathagata mati dasa-bhumi prati-sṭhite.
Sarva tathagata hrdaya adhisṭhanadhisṭhita maha-mudre.
Vajra kaya sam-hatana visuddhe.
Sarva avaraṇa apaya-durgati pari visuddhe, prati-nivartaya ayuh suddhe.
Samaya adhisṭhite. Maṇi mani maha mani.
Tathata bhuta-koṭi parisuddhe. Visphuta buddhi suddhe.
Jaya jaya, vijaya vijaya. sphara sphara, sarva buddha adhisṭhita suddhe,
Vajri vajra gadhe vajram bhavatu mama sariram.
Sarva sattvanam ca kaya pari visuddhe. Sarva gati parisuddhe.
Sarva tathagata sinca me samaavasayantu.
Sarva tathagata samasvasa adhisthite.
Budhya budhya, vibudhya vibudhya,
Bodhaya bodhaya, vibodhaya vibodhaya samanta parisuddhe.
Sarva tathagata hrdaya adhisṭhanadhisṭhita maha-mudre svaha.”


English translation:

DHARANI OF THE VICTORIOUS BUDDHA-CROWN

Adoration to the Blessed One who is the most excellent one in the triple world!
Adoration to the Enlightened One, to the Blessed One!
Namely:
Om! Cleanse [us], cleanse [us]! O one who is always impartial! One who, being in possession of all-pervading, all-illuminating light, is pure in his self-nature, cleansed of the darkness of the five paths of existence!
Baptize us, O Sugata, with an immortal baptism which consists of the best words, of the great true phrases!
Remove disasters, remove disasters, O one who holds an eternal life!
Cleanse us, cleanse us, O one who is as pure as the sky!
O one who is as pure as the victorious Buddha-crown!
O one who is inflamed with a thousand rays of light!
O all the Tathagatas who look over [the entire world]!
O one who is perfect in the Six Paramitas!
O one who holds the great seal empowered with the spiritual power which emanates from the heart of every Tathagata!
O one whose body is as hard and pure as Vajra!
O one who is thoroughly pure, cleansed of all impediments, all fears, and all the evil paths!
Turn us away [from evils] O one who enjoys a purified life!
O one who empowers us with [the power of] the original covenant! O jewel, jewel, the great jewel! O Suchness which is reality-limit and absolute purity!
O one who is pure in his evolved enlightenment!
Be victorious, be victorious, be ever victorious, be ever victorious!
Bear in mind, bear in mind!
O one who is pure being empowered by all Buddhas!
O Vajragarbha who holds the Vajra! Let my body be like Vajra! Let those of all beings too be like Vajra!
O one who is in possession of an absolutely pure body! O one who is absolutely pure from all the paths of existence! And let me be consoled by all the Tathagatas!
O one who is empowered with the consoling power of all the Tathagatas!
Be enlightened, be enlightened, be ever enlightened, be ever enlightened!
Have them enlightened, have them enlightened, have them ever enlightened, have them ever enlightened!
O one who is most pure in a most thoroughgoing way!
O one who holds a great seal empowered with the spiritual power which emanates from the heart of every Tathagata!
Hail!

Excerpted from Usnisa Vijaya Dharani Sutra


Find the text of the sutra here: USNISAVIJAYA DHARANI SUTRA


Tinna Tinh's channel: Zen Music Chant 


Tuesday, March 1, 2022

2022 03 01 MahaShivaRatri - the Great Night of Shiva

 Maha Shiva Ratri - literally Great Shiva Night - is one of the most sacred of Hindu festivals celebrating Lord Shiva, a remembrance of overcoming darkness. It is traditional to stay awake all night and greet the dawn in the morning. 

10 songs play for 68 minutes


Shiva Shrine on Assi Ghat
Varanasi, India









1 Popular Telugu Bhakthi Song - Shiva Parameshwaraya | Video Song with Telugu Lyrics 5:27
Artist Unnikrishnan

2 Shiv Tandav Stotram - Shiva Song - Lyrical Video - Shankar Mahadevan 9:13
Singer - Shankar Mahadevan

3 Rhythm of Lord Shiva 3:40
music composed by U.V.Niranjan

4 Hara Shiva Shankara 6:50

5 Theme of LORD SHIVA - Powerful Music - 8D AUDIO version 3:15
An Armonian Musical Ensemble persentation

6 Dam Dam Damru Bajaye - Pt Chunelall Narine 7:28

7 Om Namah Shivay ( Dhun by Roopkumar ) 3:20
Artist Roop Kumar Rathod

8 Hara Hara Shankara (Awesome) 4:43
Artist: Steve Ross

9 Blissful Blissful Shiva Bhajan ( by Kumar Vishu ) 7:59
Kumar Vishu

10 Om Namah Shivaya - Krishna Das Live! Songs With Lyrics 15:31




Saturday, October 17, 2020

2020 10 17 Fall Navratri

Navratri celebrates the nine nights of the Divine Mother. 



















Seven videos play for 55:18


1 Navratri 2020 | Nine Forms of Goddess Durga | Nine Colours of Navaratri 2020 | Navaratri | Offerings 7:13

2 आ जाओ एक बार माँ // Most Popular Maa Durga Bhajan // Devi Bhajan By Saurav Madhukar 6:59
artist Saurav Madhukar

3 नहीं सूना होगा ऐसा भजन - na mane na mane kali mahakali -HD 5:57
artist Shahnaz

4 भोलेनाथ गौरा माँ का दिल छूने वाला भजन || कितना रोई पार्वती भोलेनाथ के लिए || Kitna Roi Parvati 9:55
artist Rakesh Kala

5 Annapurna Stotram - Annapurna Devi Songs | Annapurna Ashtakam 7:51
artist Rajalakshmee Sanjay

6 Adi Shakti Bhajan | Hey Maa Adi Shakti | Ajit singh "Shaant" 8:12
artist Ajit Singh "Shaant”

7 Full Navratri Aarti | नवरात्रि आरती 2020 | Full Aarti In Marathi With Lyrics | Popular Durga Aarti 8:56

artist Madhura Kumbhar




Sunday, April 12, 2020

2020 04 12 The Ashvins - physicians of the gods




The Ashvins (aka Asvins, Asvinau, or Asvini Kumaras) are two twin brothers of Hindu mythology, sons of the sun god Surya. They are considered the physicians of the gods. Mentioned in the Rig Veda, the Upanishads, and the Mahabharata, they have also been know to restore life to the dead.



I chose this subject because the world is in need of health and wellness on a grand scale right now. It was something of a bonus finding the Hindu connection to resurrection on this day, Easter Sunday. Certain important concepts are found in every spiritual tradition!

Six videos play for 67:75 minutes  

1 Ashwini Nakshatra gayathri manthra 01 3:33

2 Divine Physician Ashwini Kumar Temple in Varanasi. 6:15
In Hindi, Ceremony starts at 4:35

3 Ashwini Kumaras - The Gods of Rig Veda 19:21
A talk by Ramesh Chellathurai
Twin gods equivalent to respiration – inhalation and exhalation.
Breathing practices are often connected to health and spirituality (via meditation)
Their father is the Sun, their mother is the Air (Cloud Goddess)

4 Dhanvantari | Mantra for Healing | Namathraya Maha Mantra | Kavalam Srikumar | 12:13
singer Kavalam Srikumar

5 Sri Ashwini Devata Stotram - A prayer for good health 3:58

6 Mantra for Healing | Dhanvantri Mantra Chants | with text 22:25
Artist: T S Ranganathan





Playlist url


Tuesday, March 24, 2020

2020 03 25 Chaitra or Vasant Navratri – Nine Nights of the Divine Mother


Chaitra or Vasant Navratri – Nine Nights of the Divine Mother, March 25 to April 02, 2020. 

I did something a little different this year, creating this playlist with videos for Lalitha and Tripura Sundari. You'll learn more about them in the videos.

EnJOY! 



1 Vasant Navaratri 2020: Spring Powertime Of The Goddess 1:23

2 Sri Lalitha Sahasranamam Full With Lyrics - Lalita Devi Stotram - Rajalakshmee Sanjay – Devotional 30:48
Lalitha Sahasranamam is a text from Brahmanda Purana and it contains a thousand names of the Hindu Goddess Lalitha. It is a sacred text to the Hindu worshippers of Goddess Lalitha Devi. Lalitha is the Goddess of bliss, an epithet for Shiva's wife, Goddess Parvati.
Singer: Rajalakshmee Sanjay

3 Bala Tripurasundari to Attain Everything in Life & Beauty 4:41
The Great Cosmic Wisdom Tripura Sundari is a 16 Year Old Girl
-Brief History about Bala Tripura Sundari - World Most Powerful Mantra Bala Tripurasundari Mantra

4 Shodashi Tripura Sundari Mantra Jaap 108 Repetitions ( Dus Mahavidya Series ) 19:56

5 Lalita Puja 3:08

6 Lalita Aarti | Sree Lalita Sahasranama | Devaki Pandit | Times Music Spiritual 4:46
Singer - Devaki Pandit




Playlist url
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMfVCF4-AdfFfWO9SZ3ff66N 


Sunday, March 22, 2020

2020 03 22 Sri Saraswati Sahasranama Stotram


While working on the playlist for Chaitra Navratri starting on March 25, I found this lovely Sri Saraswati Sahasranama Stotram. It won't be part of the playlist but I wanted to share it in preparation for the Nine Nights of the Divine Mother.

35 minutes. EnJOY!



Thursday, February 20, 2020

2020 02 21 MahaShivRatri - The Great Night of Shiva




It's been a while since I created a new playlist for MahaShivRatri. EnJOY!
11 songs play for 70:18 minutes




1 Sadhguru - Mahashivratri explained 1:52

2 Shiv Gayatri Mantra with Lyrics - Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe - Peaceful Chant 5:19
Singer: Ketan Patwardhan

3 Shiva Tandava Stotram || Original Powerful & Best Trance 6:30
Artist Uma Mohan

4 MOST POPULAR SONG OF LORD SHIVA EVER 7:13
Singer(s): G Gayathri Devi S. Saindhavi

5 Hara Shiva Shankara 6:50

6 Hara hara shankara Siva Siva shankara....daramarukam... Thanku for 70k views 4:45
(Movie excerpt)

7 HAIDAKHAN BABAJI - The Lord Samba Sada Shiva in human form 9:07
(Om Namah Shivaya)
Artist Sahil Jagtiani

8 RAMANA MAHARSHI - ARUNACHALA SHIVA 9:59

9 Chandrashekara Ashtakam 7:32
Artist Kosmic Music

10 (( Lord Shiva )) Great Great Bhajan (( Har Har Mahadeva )) (a must listen) 5:45
Artists Surendra Romiyo, Meenakshi Panchal

11 Jai Shiv Omkara - Shiv Aarti by Shankar Mahadevan 5:19
Artist Shankar Mahadevan




Playlist url
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMdFrgBI8qY6Otw9-E0u69ZV




Monday, January 27, 2020

2020 01 29 Vasant Panchami – Saraswati's Birthday

Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami or Saraswati Puja, is Hindu’s most famous festival that marks the arrival of the spring season and also celebrates the birth of Goddess Saraswati. The Hindu festival is marked by widespread celebrations in India. Let’s read Basant Panchami article here andread everything about Basant Panchami including History,Celebrations, Quotes, Puja, Facts, Wishes, Messages, and ShortEssays.

Basant Panchami Meaning in English – The English meaning of Basant Panchami is really simple. Basant Panchami is a Sanskrit term, Basant meaning spring, and Panchami meaning the fifth day. On this Hindu festival day, Goddess Saraswati is worshipped.

 7 videos play for 59 minutes




















 

1 Understanding Goddess Saraswati 9:40
Naren Pillai

2 Beautiful Maha Saraswati Stotram with Lyrics! 5:58
Kumar Eshwari, Pandit,kumar Sheha Suresh, Kumar Ankit Joshi

3 Sri Saraswati Astothara Satha Namavali - Saraswathi Ashtothram Telugu 12:05

4 Saraswati Dwaadasha Stotram 6:23
These sacred verses glorifies twelve of the thousands of names of the goddess.
Rekha Bharadwaj

5 Saraswati Chalisa with Lyrics | Saraswati Mantra | Bhakti Songs 7:11

6 Saraswati Beej Mantra | ॐ ऐं सरस्वत्यै नमः | Gain Knowledge & Wisdom | English & Sanskrit Lyrics [108 repetitions] 12:47
Sahil Jagtiani

7 Maa Saraswati Aarti-Jai Sarswati Mata 4:53
Anuradha Paudwal





Playlist URL
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMd_3-xewUG3fWo6a95eu9Mw

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

2019 08 27 Sita Ram Bhajans

This playlist is dedicated to my Boise kirtan leader Peter who left this Earthly existence on Sunday, August 25. A fatal car crash took him from us far too soon. I have a very fond memory of one kirtan evening when we were the only two in attendance, and he sang "Sita Ram" in a way far more deep and profound than when other people were present. It Was a mystical experience I'll always be blessed and grateful for. Thank you, Peter. 

 
Nine videos play for 68.75 minutes






















1 Sita Ram 7:31
sung by Bhagavan Das 
[I am happy to have found this because Bhagavan Das was my first kirtan/nada yoga experience, in August of 2008 he visited Bend, Oregon. After five hours of chanting, I was changed forever! I remain eternally grateful for that experience.] 

2 sita ram ram ram 11:33
[animated scenes from The Ramayan - very cool]

3 राम रघुवर राम सीता राम राम राम - Ram Raghuvar Ram Seeta Ram Ram Ram 4:08
Voice: Devotees of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

4 Ram Ram Sita Ram [Ram Dhun By Anuradha Paudwal] - Ram Dhuni 6:39

5 Krishna Das-Samadhi Sita Ram 10:00
[Warning: Sudden ending!]

6 Bhajan - Hare Ram Ram Ram Sita Ram Ram Ram 3:52

7 रविवार Special भजन I राम राम सीता राम RAM RAM SITA RAM I HARIHARAN I Ram Dhuni I HD Video 6:56
Hari Haran

8 मन को सुकून देने वाला भजन सीताराम सीताराम कहिये | श्री निवास जी 12:36
[Sita Ram – singer Shri Niwas Sharma]

9 Hare Ram Ram Sita Ram Ram 5:30
Anup Jalota 




Playlist url: 



Tuesday, July 2, 2019

2019 07 02 Ashta Lakshmi (Sanskrit: अष्टलक्ष्मी, lit. "Eight Lakshmis")

Ashta Lakshmi (Sanskrit: अष्टलक्ष्मी, lit. "Eight Lakshmis") or Ashtalakshmi are a group of eight manifestations of Devi Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth. She presides over eight sources of wealth: "Wealth" in the context of Ashta-Lakshmi means prosperity, good health, knowledge, strength, progeny, and power. The Ashta Lakshmi are always depicted and worshipped in a group in temples.



Nine videos play for 35 minutes.

All commentary regarding the Eight Lakshmis are courtesy of Wikipedia-Ashta_Lakshmi


Adi Lakshmi or Maha Lakshmi ("Primeval Lakshmi" or "Great Lakshmi") is an ancient form of Lakshmi. She is an incarnation of Lakshmi as the daughter of the sage Bhrigu. She is depicted as four-armed, carrying a lotus and a white flag, other two arms in Abhaya mudra and varada mudra.

Dhana Lakshmi ("Money Lakshmi"), is the goddess of wealth. She is depicted as four-armed, in red garments, and carrying a chakra (discus), shankha (conch), kalasha (water pitcher with mango leaves and a coconut on top) or Amrita kumbha (a pitcher containing the elixir of life), bow and arrow, a lotus and her arm in abhaya mudra with wealth in the form of gold raining down from it.
 
Dhanya Lakshmi ("Grain Lakshmi") is the goddess of agricultural wealth. She is depicted as eight-armed, in green garments, carrying two lotuses, gada (mace), paddy crop, sugarcane, bananas, and her two hands in abhaya mudra and varada mudra. 
 
Gaja Lakshmi ("Elephant Lakshmi") is the giver of animal wealth (such as cattle) or the giver of power of royalty, as interpreted by Swami Chidananda. According to Hindu mythology, Gaja Lakshmi brought back the wealth lost by Indra (king of demi-gods) from the ocean. Vasudha Narayanan interpreted the name as "one who is worshipped by elephants." She is depicted as four-armed, in red garments, carrying two lotuses, other two arms in abhaya mudra and varada mudra, surrounded by two elephants bathing her with water pots. 
 
Santana Lakshmi ("Progeny Lakshmi") is the goddess of bestowing offspring. She is depicted as six-armed, carrying two kalashas (water pitcher with mango leaves and a coconut on it), sword, shield, a child on her lap, a hand in abhaya mudra and the other holding the child. Her sword and shield symbolises a mother's ability to even kill someone to save her own child . The child holds a lotus.
 
Veera Lakshmi ("Valourous Lakshmi") or Dhairya Lakshmi ("Courage Lakshmi") is the goddess who bestows valour during battles and courage plus strength for overcoming difficulties in life. She is depicted as eight-armed, in red garments, carrying a chakra, shankh, bow, arrow, trishul (or sword), a bundle of palm leaf scriptures, other two hands in abhaya mudra and varada mudra.

Vijaya Lakshmi or Jaya Lakshmi ("Victorious Lakshmi") is the goddess and the giver of victory, not only in battles[3] but also for conquering hurdles in order to achieve success. She is depicted as eight-armed, in red garments, carrying the chakra, shankh, sword, shield, lotus, pasha, other two hands in abhaya mudra and varada mudra.
 
Vidya Lakshmi ("Knowledge Lakshmi") is the goddess and the bestower of knowledge of arts and sciences.She is dressed in white saree and has resemblance to godess Saraswati. She holds a book of vedas , peacock feather as a pen , vard mudra and abhay mudra.


1 Ashtalakshmis singing Ashtalakshmi Stothram - 'Vande Guru Paramparaam' 8:35
(This is dedicated to all eight Lakshmis)
 
2 AADHI LAKSHMI - Sri Ashtalakshmi Stuthi - Goddess Lakshmi Devi Songs - Singer Vani Jayaram 3:42

3 Shree Dhana Lakshmi Stotram - Goddes Lakshmi Mantra With Lyrics By Shailendra Bhartti 5:13

4 Dhaanya Lakshmi Stotra - Goddess Lakshmi Songs - Ashtalakshmi Stotram 2:13

5 Gajalaxmi 3:13

6 SANTHANA LAKSHMI - Sri Ashtalakshmi Stuthi - Goddess Lakshmi Devi Songs - Singer Vani Jayaram 3:11

7 Sri Dhairya Lakshmi 3:34

8 Vijaya Lakshmi Stotram - Goddess Lakshmi Songs - Ashtalakshmi Stotram 2:13

9 Vidya Lakshmi Stotra - Goddess Lakshmi Songs - Ashta Lakshmi Stotram 2:29





Playlist url:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMfC402XIK7wdn0nHSzJPeG2


Tuesday, February 19, 2019

2019 02 19 Popular and Useful Bija Mantras

Here are eight of the most popular, useful, and commonly used bija mantras to change and improve your life. (Bija or Beeja means Seed or Essence, one syllable that represents the essence of the deity.) There is a bija mantra for Shiva, but Om Namah Shivaya is used far more than any other and so I stayed with that tradition.

Eight videos play for 79 minutes

1 - Ganesh – opens doors to new beginnings and leads you around obstacles. Call upon him when you begin something new, and for intelligence.
Ganesh means Gana (group, multitude) Isha (Lord/Master) Overseer of the demi-gods who followed his father Shiva.
Om gum ganapathaye namah - Deva Premal - 8:13

2 - Kali – a fierce fighter yet loving mother figure; destroyer of evil; protection
Kali means 'fulness of time' or 'force of time'
Om Kreem Kalikaye namah - no artist info - 7:48

3 - Krishna – spiritual or unconditional love. If you need to love yourself, or are trying to forgive someone, this could be useful.
Krishna means black; dark-colored
Om kleem krishnaya namaha - no artist info - 13:16

4 - Lakshmi – fortune and wealth
Lakshmi means 'kindred mark' or 'sign of auspicious fortune'
Om shreem Mahalakshmiaya namaha - Deva Premal - 7:55

5 - Saraswati – creativity and learning [education], music and arts
Saraswati means 'She of the stream'
Om sum saraswathaye namah - Sahil Jagtiani - 12:47 

6 - Shiva – destroyer of illusion; when you need a breakthrough or clarity
Shiva means 'the Auspicious, the Perfect'
Om namah shivaya - no artist info -11:55

7 - Surya - The Sun, an excellent mantra to demonstrate Gratitude.
Surya is the name for the sun, ghrin means 'favor'
Om ghrin suryaya namah - SBV Music - 11:42

8 - Vishnu – peace, love, protector of the universe
Vishnu means 'all-pervading' or 'the being who supports all things'
This one is done as a kirtan (call and response) so I am not sure there are 108 repetitions, but I loved this version. You'll notice he includes Krishna in this one, too
Om namo narayanaya - Sahil Jagtiani - 5:18


Monday, December 10, 2018

2018 12 11 Vivah Panchami - Marriage Anniversary of Sita and Ram

Info from Vivah Panchami website

It is believed that Lord Rama is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu who visited Janakpurdham in Nepal and in the Swayamvar of Goddess Sita, broke the bow (Dhanush) of Lord Shiva and got married to Goddess Sita.

Vivah Panchami is the day celebrated as the marriage anniversary of Goddess Sita and Lord Rama as it is believed that they got married on this day. Vivah Panchami falls on the fifth day of Hindu month of Margashirsha in the Shukla Paksha.

The celebrations of Vivah Panchami take place across India in almost all the regions at Ram-Sita temples. But the most pious and grand celebrations can be seen on the lands of Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama and also at Janakpur, in Nepal, the birthplace of Goddess Sita.

Vivah Panchami Puja is performed by the priest and the celebrations are concluded with the aarti of Lord Ram.

 Six videos play for 70 minutes


1 Ramayan song - Ram Sita marriage  13:42

2 Shri Ram Jaanki Baithe Hein Mere Seene Mein 8:30

3 Devi Sita Song | Ghar Mein Padharo Sita Maiya | New Devotional Song  4:08

4 Sita Ram Sita Ram Kahiye -Ram Bhajan-Anup Jalota  7:18

5 Seeta ram seeta ram by manoj tiwari  10:48

6 Group Lakshmi Narayan Puja on Vivah Panchami  25:28





Playlist URL:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMd35KCxqFNSKlTGOOrtNqT7

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

2018 10 10 Fall Navratri

The Nine forms of Durga celebrated during Navaratri are; Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayini, Kaalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri. 

Navadurga Navratri 9 forms of Durga by ShotgunMavericks on WikiPedia




















 
First: Shailputri means the daughter of Mountain-King Himavan, her vehicle is a bull and is hailed as Vrishabhda.

Second: Brahmacharini, Brahma means penance and Charini is a lady follower, this form is the embodiment of knowledge and teaching, the way she attained Lord Shiva to be her husband.

Third: Chandraghanta, a semi-circular moon shaped like a bell on her head, this form is very serene and victorious, weapons are strongly held in her eight hands, her third eye is always open, Chandraghanta's vehicle is a lion, by worshipping her, she is always prepared for war, one can experience fearlessness and bravery by worshipping her, the death imparted by her assumes the state of assureness and happiness.

Fourth: Kushmanda, that is the fourth form of Navadurga, eight-armed, the holder of weapons, rider of the tiger, the cheerful Goddess, she is the only one who resides in the core of the sun, all the ten directions are being lightened up.

Fifth: Skandamata meaning the mother of Kartikeya, the fifth form of Navadurga, rider of the lion, by worshipping her, one is on the way to salvation.

Sixth: Katyayani, one can receive righteousness, desire, salvation and sense from worshipping her. She killed demon Mahishasur.

Seventh: Kaalratri holds an iron weapon in one hand, and another a sword, a trident, hook and scimitar is held. This form destroys all darkness, one can scare away the demonic forces by worshipping her.

Eighth: Mahagauri is white complexioned, wearing white clothes, four-armed, holding a trident, and a musical instrument in another.

Ninth: Siddhidatri has the eight powers - Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakambya, Ishitva and Vashitva can be attained by her grace, his half-Shiva and half-Shakti form of Ardhanarishwar is granted by her.

The Playlist and chants: 


Shailputri Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 1 Navratri ) Pratipada 11:32
Om Shaam Sheem Shoom Shailputryai Namaha 

Brahmcharini Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 2 Navratri ) Dwitiya 11:32
Om Braam Breem Broom Brahmcharinyai Namaha 

Chandraghanta Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 3 Navratri ) Tritiya 11:32
Om Hreem Kleem Shreem Chandraghantayai Namaha

Kushmanda Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 4 Navratri ) Chaturthi 11:32
Om Hreem Kushmandayai Jagatprasootyai Namaha

Skandamata Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 5 Navratri ) Panchami 11:32
Om Hreem Saha Skandmatryai Namaha

Katyayani Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 6 Navratri ) Sashti 11:32
Om Hreem Shreem Katyayanyai Namaha

Kalaratri Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 7 Navratri ) Saptami 11:50
Om Aim Hreem Kleem Kalratryai Namaha

Mahagauri Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 8 Navratri ) Ashtami 11:30
Om Hreem Shreem Glaum Gam Gauri Geem Namaha

Siddhidatri Jaap Mantra 108 Repetitions ( Day 9 Navratri ) Navami 11:31
Om Hreem Saha Siddhidatryai Namaha

Day 10 (Dashami) - Sharadiya Navratri ends
The Story of Vijaya Dashami - Dussehra Festival History 5:22




 
Playlist URL

Saturday, September 1, 2018

2018 09 02 Krishna Janmashtami - birth of Krishna

Krishna Janmashtami for the year 2018 is celebrated/ observed on Sunday, September 2.

Krishna Janmashtami is observed on the 8th day of the month of Bhadon on the Hindu calendar which falls in the months of July, August and September for the Gregorian calendar. The day celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.

Eight videos play for 53.15 minutes 

1 Shri Krishna Gayatri- Suresh Wadkar ( Album: Sacred Morning Mantras Muralidhar Krishna ) 7:32

2 Krishna Govinda Gopala | Popular Art of Living Krishna Bhajan 5:16

3 Sweet Surrender (Shri Krishna Govinda) [by Prema Hara] 9:40

4 Devikanandan Gopala by Krishna Das 7:30

5 GOVINDAM ADI PURSHAM 5:56

6 Samsara Davanala ~ George Harrison: 5:23

7 Hare Krishna Hare Rama ~ "Beautiful Chant" ~ [by] Agnideva Dasa 6:06

8 Beautiful Aarti ( Just Watch ) 5:45






Playlist URL

Thursday, July 26, 2018

2018 07 27 Guru Purnima and Lunar Eclipse

A very special Guru Purnima on this date with a lunar eclipse! Playlist includes both Chandra (moon) and Surya (sun) Gayatri Mantras, an explanation of the Vedic astrology for this double-event date, and a Guru Purnima bhajan playlist. 

Four videos play for 97 minutes.
EnJOY



1 - Chandra Gayatri Mantra (Moon) 18 Repititions 13:00

Om Padmadwajaya Vidhmahe
Hema roopaya Dheemahe
Thanno Chandra Prachodayath

Om, Let me meditate on God who has lotus in his flag,
Oh, God of golden colour, give me higher intellect,
And let moon God illuminate my mind. 

 
2 - Surya Gayatri Mantra (Sun) 18 Repetitions 13:00

Om Bhaskaraya Vidhmahe
Diva karaya Dheemahe
Thanno Surya Prachodayath. 

Om, Let me meditate on the Sun God,
Oh, maker of the day, give me higher intellect,
And let Sun God illuminate my mind. 

 
3 - Astrology: Full Moon in Abhijit and Total Lunar Eclipse - 27 July 2018 11:07

 
4 - गुरुवार Special गुरु पूर्णिमा भजन 2018,Guru Purnima Special Bhajans (eight songs) 59:48

Guru Ki Mahima - Kabir Amritwani
Singer: Debashish Dasgupta

Om Guru Om Gurudev
Singer: Anuradha Paudwal

Sai Kripa Karo Gurudeva
Singer: Anuradha Paudwal

Devon Ke Guru Brihaspati Ji
Singer: Anuradha Paudwal

Ab Sounp Diya
Singer: Vishwajeet

Bruhspati Mantra (Guru Mantra)
Singer: Vikram Labadiya

Guruon Ke Guru Vrahspati Ji
Singer: Anuradha Paudwal

Gurur Brahma
Singer: Shailendra Bhartti




Playlist url
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMcDhYh-_laUOa0LZJC21lFi 

Thursday, June 21, 2018

2018 06 21 Sun God Surya - Summer Solstice

 Dedicated to the Sun God Surya who rides across the skies in his chariot drawn by seven horses.

(George Harrison fans may be interested to note that this was the inspiration for his Dark Horse logo, a horse with seven heads.)

















Seven videos play for 87.73 minutes

(This is unusually long for a Kirtan Community playlist, but I liked the Surya Sahasranaam {1008 names} and wanted to include it even at 24:30 minutes.)

1 Surya Gayatri Mantra 18 Repetitions 13:00

2 Surya Mantra 21 times I Full Audio Song Juke Box I Navgrah Mantra 9:18

3 Surya Namaskar Mantra | सूर्य नमस्कार मंत्र | Rattan Mohan Sharma | Times Music Spiritual 16:32
(These are the mantras to accompany the Yoga Sun Salutation practice.)

4 Surya gayatri Mantra Song 5:32

5 Shree Surya Chalisa - Evergreen Hindi Ht Devotional Songs 13:19

6 Surya Sahasranaam {1008 names by Rishi Ved Vyas} sung by Rattan Mohan Sharma 24:30

7 Surya Aarti, Om Jai Surya Bhagwan Aarti with Hindi English Lyrics By Anuradha Paudwal 5:33


 
Playlist url:


Saturday, March 31, 2018

2018 05 23 Ganga (Ganges River) Dasharhara or Dussehra

Celebrated on May 23/24, 2018,  Ganga Dasharhara or Dussehra is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and this day is commemorated as the day when Ganga was descended to the Earth to accomplish her mission to purge the cursed souls of Bhagiratha's ancestors.

Before coming to the Earth, the Goddess Ganga was residing in Kamandal of Lord Brahma and along with her the Goddess Ganga brought the purity of heaven to the Earth.

https://www.drikpanchang.com/festivals/ganga-dussehra/ganga-dussehra-date-time.html

The Ganges River, or Ganga Mata as she is known, is considered to be the Great Mother. Her vehicle is a crocodile. (All Hindu deities have an animal as a vehicle.)

View of Ganga Ma from Ganesha Inn terrace, Rishikesh, India



The source of Ganga Ma is the Himalayas, and I was fortunate enough to travel along her course, meeting up with her in Rishikesh (I stayed in the Ganesha Inn which overlooked the river,







Shellie immersed in the Ganges River, Varanasi, India



Varanasi where I experienced the ritual immersion three times into the water,










Shellie in the Ganges/Hooghly River at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple



and then again in Dakshineswar (across the river from Kolkata - in the background of the photo) where the Ganga is called the Hooghly and the Yogananda Ashram was right on the river.
























Eight Videos play for 75 minutes.


Shree Ganga Gayatri Mantra Female & Male Mix  :29

Ganga Gayatri Mantra  :48

VERY POWERFUL CLEANING MANTRA. GANGA MANTRA. 8:56


SHREE GANGA CHALISA | Very Peaceful | Sarva Santi  12:51

गंगा स्तोत्रम || Ganga Stotram || कल्याणकारी गंगा माँ || Ganga Maa Mantra By Prem Parkash Dubey  8:00


✿◕ MANTRA PURIFICANTE ✿ GANGA MATA BHAJAN ◕✿  8:47

Jai Gange Mata - Ganga Ji Ki Aarti with Lyrics - Sanjeevani Bhelande - Hindi Devotional Songs  3:33


Shree Ganga Gaatha 36:57





Playlist URL:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACmwZPBGZMceOaiAG--h37dH0jHaf1bN

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

2018 03 27 Ajai Alai - Mantra for Being In Your Power & to Develop Radiant Body

Not exactly a kirtan - call and response - chant, but definitely a sing along, this Sikh chant was sent to me a few weeks ago by a friend, and I've enjoyed it so much, I want to share it with you.

One video plays for 1:03:00.

Description from the info on the You Tube link:
"This Mantra is so rhythmic and poetic that even if you would like to sing along and hum along with this. Its a mantra of Power, real inner power. Real inner strength and Will power This mantra is known to dissolve anger and lifts one up out of depression. This beautiful mantra is written in Gurmukhi by Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji [10th Sikh Guru] and is part of Jaap Sahib [Sikh morning prayer]."

The channel belongs to the Meditative Mind . org website

Music Production, Composition and Vocals : Dilpreet Bhatia

The words are also displayed on the video, making it easy to sing along, but here are the words and the meanings:

 \\ THE MANTRA & MEANING \\
Ajai Alai - Invincible, Indestructible.
Abhai Abai - Fearless, Unchanging.
Abhoo Ajoo - Unformed, Unborn.
Anaas Akaas - Imperishable, Etheric
Aganj Abhanj - Unbreakable, Impenetrable.
Alakh Abhakh - Unseen, Unaffected.
Akaal Dy-aal - Undying, Merciful
Alaykh Abhaykh - Indescribable, Uncostumed.
Anaam Akaam - Nameless, Desireless.
Agaah Ataah - Unfathomable, Incorruptible.
Anaathae Pramaathae - Unmastered, Destroyer.
Ajonee Amonee - Beyond birth, Beyond silence.
Na Raagay Na Rangay - Beyond love, Beyond color.
Na Roopay Na Raykhay - Beyond form, Beyond shape.
Akarmang Abharmang - Beyond karma, Beyond doubt.
Aganjae Alaykhae - Unconquerable, Indescribable.



Meditative Mind . org You Tube Link to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ps43KwRm6pQ