Lalitopakhyana: The story of the Goddess Lalita

Lalitopakhyana
(The story of the Goddess Lalita)

Introduction
The anecdotes of the divine play of Para Shakti (The Ultimate Power i.e. the Divine Mother) are described in the various texts of mythology in several ways. Devi Bhagavata, Durga Saptashati in Markandeya Purana by the Great sage Vyasa and Tripura Rahasya narrated by the Lord Dattatreya are of this category. Not only that. Many Tantra books pertain to this pious theme.

Lalita Sahasranama Stotra, the hymn of 1000 names of Lalita is the best one venerated by the followers of all the traditions. There is not a single ritual, which has any difference of opinion on this hymn, which is found in the Brahmanda Purana.

The spiritual masters of the past have written several commentaries on the LalitaSahasranama Stotra. They have firmly established that the hymn contains the essence of the Mantra Shastra (the science of holy chants) of the entire world. They have thoroughly analysed and described each name of the hymn from various aspects.

The first set of 100 names of the hymn describes in detail the story of Lalita. Takefor example, the fourth name “Chidagnikunda Sambhuta” which means the Divine mother manifested from the fire-pit of the Supreme Knowledge. Where can we find such a fire pit?

Consider another name “Kamesha baddha Mangalya sutra sobhita kandhara” i.e.
One with the Mangala sutra tied around her neck by Kameshwara.(Lord Shiva) (Mangala sutra is the holy thread with a golden pendent tied around the neck of a bride by the bridegroom) Who is Kameshwara?

We find another name “Kameshwarastra nirdagdha sa Bhandasura sunyaka”. This means that the Divine Mother has burnt to ashes both the demon Bhanda and his capital city of Sunyaka using the weapon of Kameshwara.

Who is the demon Bhanda?

First of all we said Lalitasahasra. Who is Lalita?

All these questions are answered in detail in the Lalitopakhyana in the Brahmanda
Purana. The narration is written in the form of conversation between Hayagreeva
and the sage Agastya. Hayagreeva in this context is a seer. There is a celestial of
the same name. Who are they? We get the reply for this also in the text.
There is a detailed description in the book establishing the harmonious synthesis of the aspects of the three deities Shiva, Vishnu and the Divine Mother.
In the past several devotees used to daily recite Lalitopakhyana, the detailed story of Lalita. This pious story contains the inner meanings of the several technical terms of the spiritual science and the finer aspects of the Mantra Shastra (the science of holy chants). Let us enjoy the feast of nectar by listening to this pious story with deep devotion.

Penance of Agastya

Long ago, the mountain Vindhya (central India) started growing upward in gigantic proportion due to egoism. The sage Agastya decided to subdue the pride of Vindhya. For this purpose, he came from Varanasi Kashi and settled in Dakshina Bharata (South India). By the divine presence of the sage Agastya, the entire South India gradually became prosperous and pious.

Eventually the Kali Yuga started (As per the tradition of India, Kali Yuga is the fourth Age, the others being Kruta, Treta and Dvapara). Inspite of the severe inspection of the sage Agastya, the evil traits of the Kali Yuga started sprouting slowly. Noting this trend, the sage felt sad and proceeded on a pilgrimage.

The strange and unrighteous ways of the people made him quite unhappy. There
was rampant selfishness and sensuousness prevalent everywhere. “How can these
people attain liberation?” – This was his nagging grief.
After reaching Kanchi he was unable to bear the burden of the grief, and performed severe penance meditating on Varadaraja (The Best of the boon givers – a synonym of Vishnu).

God’s ways are mysterious! His power of illusion is incomprehensible! Vishnu
appeared to the sage in the form of Hayagreeva. Agastya asked Hayagreeva “Oh
Lord! What is the path of salvation to these ignorant people”?

Hayagreeva replied “There are two paths for this. They are:

a) After renouncing everything, one can attain the knowledge of the, attributeless
aspect of God. This is a very difficult way.
b) The second method is to worship the Divine Mother who is the form of Vishnu
with attributes. Even a sinner can do the worship. There is another advantage in
this type. The devotee can simultaneously get enjoyment and salvation by
following this path”.
Further, Vishnu ordered to the sage Agastya “You have to propagate this divine
secret in the entire world”.3

The sage asked, “Lord Vishnu! Kindly narrate the story of Para Shakti (The Ultimate Power, the Divine Mother) who is your aspect with attributes ”. At this stage, Vishnu asked sage Hayagreeva (born with the Lord’s aspects) to tell the detailed story to Agastya.

The Divine Mother emanated from meditation of Brahma (the Creator). Her name
then was Prakruti (The nature).

Mohini Avatara

For the second time, the Divine Mother manifested as Mohini at the time of the
churning the ocean by the celestials and the demons (to obtain Amruta-nectar). Let
us see how it happened.

Once upon a time, Indra (the Lord of the Heaven was overpowered by the pride of
his prosperity. His reverence to even Shiva gradually diminished. Observing this,
Shiva asked the sage Durvasa to meet Indra in the Heaven. The sage started taking
the path of Gandharvas (the celestial singers), which was very beautiful. The sage
appeared uglier than a beggar. Anyway he proceeded ahead pompously.
On the way the sage saw a celestial lady holding a fragrant garland of divine flowers.
The ugly looking sage asked the beautiful lady, “Where did you get this garland”?
She observed him keenly and realised that he was a sage. She prostrated to him
and replied humbly “Sir! I am just now returning after doing the worship of the
Divine Mother, who manifested and gave me this garland as Prasadam”
Jumping joyously, the sage asked her to give the garland to him. She happily
handed it over to the sage and, prostrated to him. The sage blessed her “May your
devotion to the Divine mother be firm”. Taking leave of the sage, she went away.
By this incident, the sage realised that it was not difficult to others to recognise him,even if he was in any ugly appearance. He was satisfied with this thought and
proceeded further.

After a while, he saw Indra riding the elephant Iravata. The sage approached Indra,
who did not appear to recognise and prostrate to the sage. However, the sage did
not get angry and said, “Indra! This is the garland given by the Divine Mother
Herself. Take it. Saying so, the sage presented the garland to Indra.
Indra didn’t refuse. He received the garland with disgust and threw the same on the head of the elephant, which proceeded ahead. A little latter, the elephant threw
down the garland with its trunk and trampled over it.

Looking at this, the sage Durvasa became very furious and cursed Indra, “Oh!
Egoistic fellow! You have not recognised me. Not only that. You have not even
respected the Prasadam of the Divine mother. Due to this, May your prosperity
vanish!”

With these words, Indra’s pride was humbled. He got down the elephant and
prostrated to the feet of the angry sage Durvasa. However, the sage went away
silently.4

Then Indra’s troubles started one by one. He saw bad omens in the Heaven. Afraid
of them, Indra asked the sage Bruhaspati (the Spiritual Master of the celestials) to
reveal the cause of the bad omens. The sage replied, “The effect of your sins follows you as a shadow. Saying so, the sage narrated a fine story.5

Lalitopakhyana – II
( 2ndDay)

Long long ago, there was a thief by name Vajra in Kanchipuram He used to steal small things and gradually amassed large quantum of money. As the wealth accumulated considerably, he wanted to hide it safely and went to the nearby forest to do so. In a dense part of the forest, he dug a deep pit and secured the money therein.

However, a hunter by name Veeradanta, sitting on a tall tree observed all this, quite
unexpectedly. After the thief has left the place, the hunter dug out the pit and after
taking only one tenth of the money, he covered the pit, without causing any doubt to anyone. The hunter’s wife saw the money and knowing how her husband got it, she said, “It is customary that many Brahmanas visit the home of my parents.
Whenever they saw me, they used to forecast “You will get rich quite suddenly.
Their prediction came true now”.

The hunter Veeradanta planned to purchase meat and wine with the money.
However his wife said, “The Brahmana visitors of my parents’ home used to tell
something more. They cautioned that hard-earned money only will give durable
enjoyment and that the easy money was sinful. Hence let us use this unexpected
and unearned money for charities. After prolonged discussions, the wife’s opinion
won.

Then Veeradanta selected a place of water scarcity and arranged the digging a big
water tank for public use. While the work was in progress, further plans were made and accordingly, he started the construction of temples for Vishnu and Shiva by the side of the tank.

When the projects were half way, the money was exhausted. Hence Veeradanta
started spying like a detective to find out the several places at which the thief Vajra
was hiding the stolen wealth. Without causing any doubt to the thief, the hunter
used to take out money little by little from the pits and continued the construction
without interruptions. Along with this, he started to donate the money. However
the hunter did not use the money for himself or his family.

Thus, constantly encouraged by his wife, his charities developed. The Brahmanas of Kanchi were glad and gave the titles “Dvijavarma” and “Shilavati” to the hunter and his wife. These titles eventually became their names in vogue.
Some time later, the hunter planned and constructed a city. Instead of giving it his
own name, the hunter named it as “Devaratapura”, as a mark of respect to his guru
“Devarata”.

After a few years, the hunter and his wife died at the same time. The messengers of Yama (The God of death and the Lord of Hell), and Shiva and Vishnu arrived to take away the Jivas (the subtle form of life of the dead). Their debate as to who can take the Jivas could not be settled.

At that time, the sage Narada arrived there. He asked the three groups of
messengers to stop the arguments and revealed another aspect of the code of6
righteousness thus, “The hunter has performed the deeds of merit (Punya) like
charities, with the money stolen by him. Hence as per the rules of righteousness, he must move about in the form of a ghost until the death of all the owners of the
stolen wealth. Hence none of you have the right to take away the Jiva.
“Next, his wife was great. She didn’t commit any sin. As she was a devotee of
Shiva, the messengers of the Lord can take away her Jiva.”
Listening to this ruling, Shilavati’s Jiva sat down obstinately, saying “I won’t go to
Kailasha, the abode of Shiva, leaving my husband in the form of a ghost”. She
prayed to the sage Narada, “Sir! Kindly direct me what I have to do to unburden my husband’s sins”.

Narada was very much pleased with her chastity and fidelity and gave initiation of
Shiva mantra (chant) to her. By her penance, the husband and wife attained the
grace of Shiva and were accepted to stay in Kailasha (Shiva’s abode).
Sometime later, the thief Vajra and the persons from whom he stole the money died.

All the Jivas reached the Hell, the abode of Yama, the god of death, He asked all of
them to assemble and said, “Though you did not intend to do the acts of Punya
(merit), they were performed with your money. Hence you are eligible to stay in
Kailasha (abode of Shiva) for sometime. Hence I ask you whether you choose to
experience either the effect of Punya (merit) or Papa (sin) in the first instance. They replied in chorus “we opt to experience the effect of merit first. By doing so, we will have a chance of association with the pious which in turn will wipe out past sins”.

Yama felt glad by their choice and sent them all as the attendants of Dvijavarma at
Kailasha. By his good association, all their sins were washed off and they settled in Kailasha happily.

Preaching of Bruhaspati

After narrating the story, Bruhaspati said, “Indra! Now you think of your sins”. Indra once again prostrated to the sage and requested. “Sir! I am unable to realise my sins. Kindly give me details”. Bruhaspati replied “In the distant past, ‘Diti’, the
second wife of Kashyapa gave birth to a son by name Danu and a daughter named
Rupavati. Danu is the predecessor of the race of Danavas (demons). Rupavati was
married to Brahma (the Creator). Her son was Vishwarupa. He did severe penance.
He had many divine aspects. However he was a nephew of the demons. He was
affectionate towards both the races – the celestials and the demons.
After a while, Indra chose Vishwarupa as his Guru (at that time, Bruhaspati was not the Guru of the celestials). Indra expected that Vishwarupa would be partial towards the celestials and that he would destroy the demons. However Vishwarupa was friendly towards all.

Observing this, Indra suspected that being a friend of the demons, Vishwarupa was
harming the celestials. One day, Indra suddenly went to Vishwarupa and cut off all
his three heads. By doing so, Indra was afflicted by the sin of Brahmahatya (killing Brahmana). Not only that. Aggrieved by the death of His son, Brahma (the Creator) cursed Indra. Terrified by these two (Brahmahatya and curse of Brahma), Indra accompanied by all the celestials, sought refuge at the feet of Vishnu, who7
contemplated deeply and allocated the effect of Indra’s sins to the earth, the trees
and the women.
As compensation, Vishnu gave the power that the pits of earth could be filled up, the power that even the trees once cut off could revive and the power of women to
beget children. Thus Indra was relieved of the effect of the sin of Brahmahatya
(killing a Brahmin). However, the curse of Brahma (the Creator) still persisted.
Vishnu called for Brahma and requested Him on behalf of Indra for relief from the
curse. Brahma thought over the same and said, “OK. For the present my curse
won’t take effect”. Vishnu said nothing.
Again Indra became prosperous. However, very soon his pride increased. This time,Indra was affected by the anger of Shiva and so he was cursed by the sage
Durvasa”.

Listening to all this, Indra recollected the past events and sadly asked Bruhaspati
“Master! What have I to do now”? When the guru was about to reply, a demon
named Malaka invaded the Heaven with a huge army and seized the kingdom. Indra had to escape in a great hurry.
He went straight to Brahma and prayed to Him for mercy, who also pitied Indra.
However even the Creator could not decide what to do and approached Vishnu along with Indra and the celestials.

Vishnu thought of the problem deeply and advised them, “You churn the ocean to
get the Goddess of prosperity”. For this purpose, Indra made reconciliation with the demons and taking their help, he and the celestials churned the ocean. During the churning, very valuable things emanated from the ocean. At last, Dhanvantari (the God of Healing) came out holding the pot of Amruta (nectar). Looking at him, the demons grabbed the pot and started running away with it.

A bitter battle started between the celestials and the demons. There was utter
confusion. Even Brahma and Shiva escaped and reached their abodes.
Observing all this, Vishnu went to a secluded spot and started meditation of Sri Lalita Devi, who dwells within Him as the aspect of power. Due to this meditation he manifested as Mohini a form of Lalita Devi. Taking this incarnation as an embodiment of Kaama, Vishnu approached the celestials and demons.
The celestials could realise the form as divine and auspicious. However, due to their predominating trait of Tamas (ignorance), the demons were enchanted by the
beauty of the form and stopped fighting. She mesmerised them and took the pot of
Amruta (nectar) from them, taking their consent to her to serve the nectar to all.
She asked the celestials and the demons to sit in separate rows. She started to give
the nectar to the celestials only first. Allured by her, the demons sat still stupefied.
By the time the nectar was given to the celestials, the stock exhausted. She
disappeared suddenly.
The demons again started to fight with the celestials. However as the celestials have already drunk the nectar by then, the demons were defeated.8

Thus, the Divine Mother who manifested and enchanted the demons was called
MOHINI (the divine entrantress). Shiva, staying in Kailasha came to know of these events and wanted to note the speciality of the new form of Vishnu. Along with his consort Parvati, Shiva went to Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu and pressed Him to show the form of Mohini. Vishnu suddenly disappeared without saying yes or no.
While Shiva was searching for Vishnu, he happened to reach a new place where he
continued to search.
There he heard the music of Veena. He saw a beautiful young lady.who was Mohini an incaration of Lalitha Devi Unable to resist his infatuation, Shiva embraced her. At once a divine baby was born. He was named SHASTA (one who rules). He became a commander in Shiva’s army.

At once the lady disappeared. Shiva realised that she was none else than Mohini, a
form of Vishnu. He applauded her beauty and returned to Kailasha along with
Parvati.
Thus the Divine Mother incarnated as Mohini and granted success of the activities of the celestials.9

Lalitopakhyana – III
( 3rd Day)

Agastya heard the story and said, “Hayagreeva! Kindly let me know in detail which form of Para Shakti (The Divine Mother, the Supreme Power) will bestow both food and salvation to the devotees in the Kali Yuga”. Hayagreeva replied, “Lalita Devi is the only Goddess who has the power to do so. Listen to her story”.

In the distant past, Sati Devi, a daughter of Daksha was married to Shiva. However
gradually, Daksha developed hatred towards Shiva. Due to this ill will, Daksha
intended to perform a Yaga (fire sacrifice) without making any offering to Shiva. He didn’t invite even his daughter Sati Devi to the Yaga.
She came to know of the forth-coming great Yaga to be done by her father. She
didn’t know other details. However, overjoyed by the news of the ritual her father
was going to perform, he went to the Yaga, in spite of Shiva’s disapproval of her
visit.

Sati Deha Tyaga (Self-immolation of Sati)

Ignoring the natural affection to his daughter, Daksha insulted her and repeatedly
abused Shiva. Unable to bear the insult to Shiva, Sati Devi burnt her body in the fire created by her power of yoga. Knowing about this calamity, Shiva became furious.Creating the terrific Veerabhadra out of the locks of hair of His head, Shiva sent him to attack Daksha. Veerabhadra destroyed the hall of Yaga, swallowed even the Chakra (the circular weapon of Vishnu) and beheaded Daksha. The wives of Daksha prayed to Veerabhadra who was pacified and revived Daksha back to life by joining the head of a goat to the trunk. Daksha repented and prayed to Shiva for pardon.

Sati Devi was born as the daughter of Himavanta (Himalaya Mountain) and Menaka, as the couple did penance for 150 million years with the intention to beget her as their child. The newborn was named Parvati (daughter of Parvata-mountain) and brought Her up with love and affection.

One day, the sage Narada visited Himavanta and said, “You are very fortunate. The Divine Mother is born as your daughter; Shiva is doing penance in your mountain range in his “Sthanu Ashrama” (abode of stones).
After the departure of Sati Devi,He has become an ascetic. It will benefit you considerably if you send your daughter to serve Him”.

Himavanta’s joy knew no bounds on hearing Narada’s words. He went to the abodeof Shiva along with his daughter. After taking Nandi’s (the Ox which is the vehicle of Shiva) permission, he approached Shiva, worshipped Him and prayed to Him to allow
Parvati to serve him. Shiva said, “OK. She may do so”. Then onwards, Parvati used to render services to Shiva for hours together. However, Shiva used to be in a state of ecstasy of yoga continuously.

Kaama Dahana (Burning of God of Love)
This being so, a demon by name Taraka invaded and occupied the Heaven along with his army and started to hurt and pester the celestials. All of them approached.

Brahma for relief, who said, “The son born to Shiva and Parvati only can kill the
demon. Hence you make such efforts that the marriage will be performed”.
Indra, the Lord of the celestials called for Manmatha (the god of love). He
praised and asked him to see that Shiva’s ascetic attitude was lessened and
that He would start to love Parvati. Manmatha was exuberated by praises and
agreed to do as directed.
Ratidevi, the spouse of Manmatha came to know of this new assignment and tried
her best to dissuade Kamadeva from embarking on the hazardous venture. In spite of it,
Kamadeva proceeded to Shiva’s abode “Sthanu Ashrama”.

There he suddenly created the alluring atmosphere of the spring season. The
Pramathaganas (the armies of Shiva) were very much disturbed in their minds with
the erotic feelings. Observing this, Nandi (Ox-the vehicle of Shiva) disciplined them.
In the meantime, Kama entered the abode of Shiva stealthily and saw Shiva seated
in the state of ecstasy of meditation. The very sight of Shiva in the posture suddenly unnerved Kama At the same moment, Parvati came there. Looking at Her, Kamadeva recovered his courage.

While Parvati was getting up after bending low to prostrate to Shiva, Exactly at that moment, Manmatha aimed an arrow on Lord Shiva, whose mind was affected a bit. Observing this, Parvati feet a gush of joy inwardly.

However Shiva analysed His feeling immediately and looked around to know why it happened so. Shiva saw Kaama hiding behind the bushes. At once, Shiva’s third eye (in between the eyebrows) opened and the fire rushing therefrom reduced Kaama to ashes.

Parvati closed her eyes out of fear. By the time She opened Her eyes in a
moment, Shiva disappeared with all His attendants. Himavanta came there, consoled Her and took Her home. Rati wept bitterly due to the death of her husband Manmatha. Vasanta, the god of spring approached Ratidevi, consoled her and reminded her of the curse of Brahma to Manmatha.

Curse of Brahma to Manmatha:

Once upon a time, there were two demons by name Sunda and Upasunda,
who were brothers. They did penance meditating on Brahma and obtained a strange boon that their death could not be caused by anyone else except by themselves only. They were very much fond of one another. Hence they expected that no mutual harm would be possible.

Thereafter they created havoc by their terrific acts in the three worlds. All the
celestials prayed to Brahma who thought of a strategy to destroy the demons. He
accumulated the essence of beauty of all the fine things in the world and created a
woman of exquisite beauty. As she was created with a gingelly aspect of beauty in
everything, she was called Tilottama (Tila-gingelly; Uttama-Best)
Her beauty enchanted even the celestials. Brahma checked up keenly whether her
beauty was superb in all aspects. Manmatha, who happened to be there at that time,wanted to play a practical joke. Hence he aimed an arrow at Brahma. Due to this, Brahma forgetting that she was his own creation
As a last resort, Tilottama started running taking the form of a deer. Brahma also followed her in the form of a deer. The celestials were highly agitated by this untoward event.
Observing this impending danger, Shiva manifested as a hunter and holding a bow
and arrows came near Brahma who was in the form of a deer.
Looking at the fierce form of Shiva, Brahma came to senses. He prostrated to His
feet and prayed for pardon. By then, the celestials and Tilottama arrived there.
Everyone was pacified. After taking Shiva’s permission, the celestials sent Tilottama to meet Sunda and Upasunda looking at Tilottama going about in a garden, both Sunda and Upasunda competed to enjoy with her and at last the demons killed and one another.

Tilottama returned to Brahma, who felt happy and sent her to the Heaven with a
permanent status as one of the Apsaras(celestial dancers).
After the entire affair was over, Brahma recollected what all had happened and sent for Manmatha and said “You fellow! Blinded by the power bestowed to you, how dare you aim your arrows (of lust) at one and all, disregarding their age? Do you intend to destroy the code of righteousness? I am saved of grievous sin due to the timely arrival and protection of Shiva.
Hence, one day you will be burnt to ashes by the fire
of Shiva’s third eye. Beware!”

Hearing the curse, Rati and Manmatha were frightened and prayed to Brahma for
relief of the curse.
Brahma regained His composure and said, “The Divine Mother will manifest as
Lalitadevi. She will marry Shiva. After the marriage, She will revive Manmatha to
life”
After narrating the story, Vasanta (the god of spring season) consoled Rati
saying, “Sister-in-law! It is a must for everyone, however great he is, to undergo the suffering of a curse. However as predicted by Brahma, my brother Manmatha will be revived to life soon. Until then, be bold and continue to pray to Lalitadevi.
Ratidevi left the place and followed the advice.12

Lalitopakhyana – IV
( 4th Day)

Birth of Bhandasura

150. At this point of time, Chitrakarma, the commander of one of the Rudra Ganas
(Gana = troupe) one day started toying with the ash of the burnt Manmatha and
prepared a doll out of it. He took this doll to Lord Shiva.

151. Lord Shiva’s intentions are indeed unfathomable. As soon as the doll neared
Lord Shiva, it sprang to life and the boy thus born prostrated before Lord Shiva and Chitrakarma.
152. Chitrakarma was overwhelmed with joy. He gave the boy the Upadesha of
Shata-Rudreeya Mantra and asked him to undertake penance.

153. When the penance reached the stage of fruition, Lord Shiva appeared before
him. He asked Lord Shiva to grant him a special boon “anyone who fights against me should immediately lose half of his strength and that strength should be added to my strength. None of the weapons of my opponents should be able to bind me” was his request. Immediately Lord Shiva granted the boon and added, “I am also bestowing on you the boon of ruling the kingdom for sixty thousand years”. After giving these boons, Lord Shiva disappeared.

154. He became surprised and a bit apprehensive by the words of Lord Shiva. But
soon he forgot it.

155. Lord Brahma, who was witnessing all this, grew frustrated and swore
“Bhand” (meaning shame, shame). From then on, he got the name “Bhanda”.
Because of his qualities he became an Asura (demon) and entered the domain of
Asuras. This is how he got the name ‘Bhandasura’.

156. In the mean time, from the remnants of the ash of Manmatha were born two
demons – Vishukra and Vishanga. These two became the main brothers of
Bhandasura.

157. In addition, thousands of Rakshasas (demons) were born out of the ash of
Manmatha. All of them became followers of Bhandasura. They formed a strong army of 300 Akshouhinis (one Akshouhini consists of 21870 elephants, 65610 horses and 109350 soldiers).

158. Having come to know about the birth of thousands of Rakshasas, Shukracharya (the guru of Rakshasas) came there and assumed the role of the Master for all those Rakshasas and initiated them to undertake regular Anushthanas (daily rituals).

159. He also summoned Maya, the architect-builder of demons and asked him to
create a new city in the province of Mahendra Mountains. He named the city as
‘Shoonyaka Pattana’13

160. Shukracharya asked all the demons to move to the new city. He crowned
Bhandasura as the king of the newly formed kingdom and made Vishukra and
Vishanga the Yuvarajas (princes) of that kingdom.

161. Bhandasura had four wives. 1. Sammohini, 2. Kumudini, 3. Chitrangi 4.
Sundari.

162. Under the guidance of Shukracharya, activities like fire sacrifices, Vedic
education and penance went on uninterruptedly in every house.
Tormenting of the three worlds:

163. When the kingdom was well established, Bhandasura called for a meeting of his brothers and ministers and said :

A) Devatas (Gods) are our enemies. As long as Manmatha was alive, their
lineage continued without any problems. They also enjoyed many
pleasures.
B) Now, because of our luck, we have taken birth from the ashes of
Manmatha. The gods are trying to see that Manmatha is born again. We
should not allow that to happen. Before they try anything like that, we
should kill the Devatas.
C) But, if we go in our present form, we can not win. Let us therefore assume
the form of air and enter their bodies.
D) After having so entered their bodies, let us dry up their body fluids,
especially the virya.
E) If virya dries up, the strength of other tissues and organs will
automatically diminish. Then they will automatically be annihilated.
F) Let us torment the beings of all the three worlds by entering their bodies in
the form of air and by drying up their body fluids.

164. Hearing this, the entire army of the demons cheered with joy.

165. Without wasting much time, Bhandasura and his army of 1000 Akshouhinis
assumed the invisible form of air and entered the heaven.

166. First of all, they entered the minds of the angels and dried up their mental
faculties.

167. Subsequently they entered the face of the angels, robbed them of their beauty
and made them ugly looking.

168. All the women and men in the heaven became impotent and sterile.

169. Not only that, their love for one another was also lost. They lost enthusiasm to do anything.

170. Even the plants and animals suffered the same fate.

171. Vishukra, along with his troupes entered Bhooloka (earth) and meted out the
same treatment to the beings there.14

172. People on the planet earth stopped smiling. They lost all happiness. No one had any respect for another. No one thought of helping the other. They lost interest in their activities. The situation was stone-like, devoid of any life and feelings.

173. Vishanga, along with his troupes entered Rasaatala (one of the seven nether
worlds). He created similar havoc there also.

174. In the Naga Loka (land of serpents) everyone became afflicted with grief for no apparent reason. Everyone started hating everyone else. Everyone became drained of energy and potency.

175. Rasa, the fluid principle is the basis for the accomplishment of the four-fold
aims of life (Purusharthas). Let us see how.

A. Rasa itself is the form of Paramatma, the Almighty.
B. From Rasa are created Shukla and Shonita . These two are
collectively called as Veerya.

C. From Veerya comes Kanti (radiance), Utsaaha (enthusiasm), Ullasa
(happiness), Dharma (righteousness), Daya (compassion), Preeti (love),
Buddhi (intellectual capabilities), Vikasa (development), Parakrama (valour)
Shastra Vijnana (scientific knowledge), Kala Asakti (interest in arts),
Soundarya Drishti (proper concept of beauty) etc.

D. In plants, the Rasa enhances the fire energy, which is hidden in them. Only
when the fire energy is harnessed, the plants can branch out and bear
flowers and fruits. Because of this fire principle, the dried logs catch fire
easily and burn.
E. The Vedas have declared that beings can experience happiness only if Rasa
is present.
F. Rasa is nothing but Prana (vital energy).
G. Having known all these secrets, Bhandasura devised the plan of entering
the bodies of all beings in the form of air and drying them up.

176. Vasanta, the close friend and associate of Manmatha observed this immediately and consoled Rati (Manmatha’s wife). He said “Even the sun, the moon and the stars have lost their brilliance. Even Goddess Parvati seems to have become dull and has engaged in Tapas. Therefore, the day when your dead husband will come to life again is not very far. That day will come very soon. So, stop grieving.”

177. On hearing this, Rati Devi prepared to undertake penance.

178. In the heaven, all the Devatas including Brahma, could not comprehend what
was going on and what had caused the situation. Not knowing the remedy for their
hardship, they approached Lord Sri Hari.

179. When they finally reached the abode of Lord Sri Hari, they saw that even He
was sitting still with his eyes closed. It appeared as though He was merged in the
bliss of Sushupti. After the angels praised His glory for a long time, Lord Sri Hari
slowly opened His eyes.

180. “What is this? Why are you all looking drained of your energies?” asked Lord Sri Hari. He called everyone by their names and said :

A. Your present condition is due to the invisible foul play of Bhandasura.15
B. Even I have lost the affinity for Goddess Lakshmi. What to say about other
lesser beings?
C. Myself, Brahma and Rudra are Karana Purushas (causal beings for the
manifest creation). Even then, because we are also inhabiting this creation,
even we can not escape the torture of Bhandasura.
D. There is however one Almighty God who is beyond this manifest
Brahmanda. He is called Maha Shambhu. Parashakti is constantly in His
Company.
E. He is devoid of form. He is not dependent on anything. He has no
modifications. He is greater than the greatest. He is the ultimate.
F. He is not influenced by the foul play of Bhandasura, who is born from the
ashes of Manmatha.
G. He can rescue us from our difficulties. Therefore, let us all take refuge in
Him and praise Him. Follow me.

181. So saying, Sri Hari led all the angels to the brim of the Brahmanda (Universe).
There was a huge wall like fence there.

182. The angels summoned the celestial elephants to break the wall. After toiling
continuously for one year, a breach was formed in the wall.

183. After passing through the breach, they saw Chinmaya Akasha, which was
Niralamba (independent), Nirajnana (untainted) and which was devoid of the five
elements.

184. They all stood in that Chinmaya Akasha and sang the glory of Maha Shambhu,who was of the form of Chidakasha.

185. Then Maha Shambhu appeared before them. He was dark like clouds. He had
two hands. He was holding a Shoola (spear) in one hand and a Kapala (skull) in the other. He had three eyes.

186. Parashakti also appeared before them. She was holding Aksha Mala (rosary of beads) and Pustaka (book) in Her hands. She was bright and cool like the moon.16

Lalitopakhyana – V
( 5thDay)

Maha Yaga

187. The great Maha Shambhu smiled and said

A. I am aware why you have all come here.
B. Pralaya (destruction) is of three types. (i) Avaantara Pralaya (ii) Maha
Pralaya and (iii) Kama Pralaya.
C. I am the one who is responsible to rescue the world from Maha Pralaya.
Vishnu is the one who rescues from Aavantara Pralaya. It is Lalita
Parameshwari who rescues from Kama Pralaya.
D. These three kinds of Pralaya take place in a cyclic pattern in every Kalpa.
Now, Kaamika Pralaya has taken place because of the destruction of Kama
and subsequently due to the actions of Bhandasura.
E. Only Lalita Devi can rescue from this situation. Parashakti alone can create
another Lalita Devi. Therefore, take shelter in her. Beg her to help you.

188. Hearing this, the Devatas did not know what to do. They again prayed to Maha Shambhu to teach them the method of appeasing Parashakti.

189. Maha Shambhu explained :

A. This is called as Maha Yaga. (great fire sacrifice)
B. I am (assuming the form of Vayu) the Hota (the priest who makes the
offerings in a Homa) in this Yaga (fire sacrifice).
C. My Chidagni itself is the fire in this Yaga.
D. The last of the seven seas, i.e., Jala Samudra (Water Sea) has now dried
up. The huge pit so formed itself is the Homa Kunda (fire pit where Homa is
performed)
E. The remaining six great oceans constitute the six drops of ghee which is
used as offering.
F. Srishti (creation) is of five types (i) Manasa Srishti (ii) Jarayavee Srishti
(creation-taking place through the womb. E.g. Human beings), (iii) Anda
Srishti (creation taking place through eggs) (iv) Swedaja Srishti (creation
taking place through sweat) and (v)Udbhijja Srishti (creation taking place
by sprouting). These five Srishtis (creations) are the sacrifice animals in
this Maya Yaga.
G. Bhoomi (land), Parvata (mountains), Jala (water), Vayu (air) and Akasha
(space) these five are the substances used in this fire sacrifice. Agni
element (one of the five elements) being a part of my Chidagni can not be
a substance to be offered.
H. At the end of this great fire sacrifice, all of you (the performers of the Yaga)
should jump in to the Homa Kunda (fire pit). While doing so, you must
possess absolute devotion.
I. Then, Lalita Parameshwari will manifest.
J. She will be seated in a chariot called Chakra Raja Ratha.
K. She will create Parabrahma in the name of Kameshwara and will have Him
as Her consort.
L. This couple will re-create the entire universe, which will turn out to be more
beautiful than the previous creation.
M. Lalita Parameshwari will bring Manmatha back to life.17
N. She will create four weapons, namely (i) Ikshu Dhanus – a bow of
sugarcane (Mano roopekshu kodanda – is one of the 1000 names of
Goddess Lalita)(ii) five Pushpa Banas – flower arrows (Pancha tanmatra
saayaka is one of the 1000 names), (iii) Paasha – noose (Raaga svaroopa
paashaadhyaa – is one of the 1000 names of Lalita) and (iv) Ankusha (a
hook, especially an elephant driver’s hook) (Krodha akaarankushojjvala is
one of the descriptions of Lalita)
O. With the help of these weapons, she will destroy Bhandasura.
P. She will bring Manmatha back to life.
Q. She will give you fresh bodies.
R. If you all agree, I will begin this great sacrifice myself.

190. The angels became very pleased and begged Maha Shambhu to be the Hota
and carry on the sacrifice. Parashakti and Maha Shambhu disappeared.

191. The angels also returned to their abode.

192. After some time, Maha Shambhunatha, accompanied by Parashakti started
chanting the Lalita Maha Mantra and entered the Universe in the form of the sevenlayered Vayu (air).

193. Parashakti assumed the form of His Kriya Shakti (energy of action).

194. With the help of Kriya Shakti, Vayu blew the Jala Samudra with all his energy.
The Jala Samudra (water ocean) became totally dry.

195. In the pit thus formed He kindled the Chidagni with the help of fire emanating from the third eye. This Agni raged from the Patala (a region in the nether-world) to the Brahma Loka.

196. He decorated the periphery of the Homa Kunda with the stars just as one
decorates a sacrificial fire pit with flowers.

197. After this, he performed the Yaga as ordained by the Vedas. He used the
Pralaya Meghas (clouds appearing during Pralaya), namely Pushkala and Aavartaka as Srik and Sruva (the two spoons which are used to offer ghee in fire worship).

198. As the Homa progressed, the Chidagni emanating from it spread to vast area.

199. He then offered the first six oceans and then the five-fold creations to this Agni.

200. In the end, the gods too decorated themselves and sat on the Srik and Sruva,
ready to be offered to Agni. Maha Shambhunatha offered them to Agni.

201. After this, Maha Shambhunatha discarded his Vayu form and assumed his real form. He then chanted 8 special mantras and performed 8 Homas.18

Lalitopakhyana – VI
( 6th Day)

Manifestation of Lalita Devi

202. At the end of the Homa, Lalita Devi came out of the Chidagni Homa Kunda,
seated on a special chariot called “Chakra Raja Ratha”. Therefore, we find the
descriptions such as
“Chidagnikunda sambhoota”
“Deva kaarya samudyataa” and
“Chakra Raja Rathaa Roodha Sarvaayudha Parishkritaa”
in Lalita Sahasranama.
203. The Sri Chakra Raja Ratha had the following dimensions:
A. Width 4 Yojanas (1 Yojana is approximately 9 miles)
B. Height 10 Yojanas
C. Parvas (landings) 9 in number
D. Chakras (wheels) – the four Vedas
E. Horses – the four-fold aims (Purusharthas)
F. Flag absolute bliss
G. The seat at the topmost landing is the Bindu Peetha.
H. Form : of the form of Meru Prastara.
I The material that was used to make this was ‘Tejas’

204. The Lalita Parameshwari so manifested, created a male form from within
Herself. His name was Kameshwara.

205. By her power of will, she created 4 different weapons. They were (i)Ikshu
Dhanus (ii) Five arrows, (iii) Pasha (noose) and 4 Ankusha (a special hook). She held all these weapons in her hands. We see the description – “Chaturbahu samanvitaa” in the Lalita Sahasranama.

206. She was shining like the morning sun, with crimson color. (Udyad bhanu
sahasraabhaa is a description found in Lalita Sahasranama)

207. Her beauty was full in all aspects.(Sarvarunaanavadyangee sarvaabharana
bhooshitaa – Lalita Sahasranama)

208. She always appears as though she is 16 years of age. (Nityaa shodashikaa
roopaa is a description in Lalita Sahasranama). This description has two meanings.
One meaning is that she always appears as one who is sixteen years of age. The
other meaning is, there are 16 Nityaa Devis. She is of the form of these 16 Nityaa
Devis.

209. Maha Shambhunatha praised Her in many ways.
Order of Creation

210. She extended Herself in both male and female forms and continued the process of creation.19

A. From the left eye, which was of the nature of Soma (moon) came Brahma
and Lakshmi Devi.
B. From the right eye, which was of the nature of Soorya (sun) came Vishnu
and Parvati.
C. From the third eye, which was of the nature of Agni (fire), came Rudra and
Sarasvati.
D. Lakshmi & Vishnu, Shiva & Parvati and Brahma & Sarasvati became
couples.
E. Lalita Devi directed them to continue the process of Creation.

211. She herself continued to create certain things.
(i) From her long hair she created darkness.
(ii) From her eyes, she created the sun, the moon and the fire.
(iii) From the pendent hanging in front of her forehead came the stars
(iv) From the chain above her forehead came the nine planets.
(v) From the eyebrows, she created the penal code.
(vi) From her breath, she created the Vedas.
(vii) From her speech, she created poetry and plays.
(viii) From her chin she created the Vedangas.
(ix) From the three lines in her neck, she created various Shaastras.
(x) From her breasts, she created mountains.
(xi) From her mind, she created the power of bliss.
(xii) From her fingernails, she created the 10 incarnations of Vishnu.
(xiii) From her palms, she created the Sandhyas.
(xiv) She created other things as narrated in the Purusha Sookta.
(xv) From her heart, she created Baalaa Devi.
(xvi) From her intellect, she created Shyamala Devi.
(xvii) From her ego, she created Vaaraahi Devi.
(xviii) From her smile, she created Vighneshwara.
(xix) From the Ankusha (a special hook), she created Sampatkaree Devi.
(xx) Form the noose, she created Ashwaa Roodha Devi.
(xxi) From her cheeks, she created Nakuleshvari Devi.
(xxii) From her Kundalini Shakti, she created Gayatri.
(xxiii) From the eight wheels of the Chakra Raja chariot, she created 8
Devatas.
(xxiv) In the 9th landing, in the Bindu Peetha, she herself was seated.
(xxv) Afterwards, she created the Devatas who would protect the Chakra Raja
chariot.

212 After having thus completed the great creation, Lalita Devi requested her
consort, Shiva Kama Sundara to created the Shiva Chakra.

213. He immediately brought out a big humming sound and from this, the Shiva
Chakra Devatas numbering 23 manifested.

214. Later, Lalita Devi crowned Shyamala Devi as the prime minister. Therefore
Shyamala Devi is called Mantrini Devi.

215. Lalita Devi handed over the finger ring to Mantrini Devi.

216. She made Vaartaalee Devi the chief of her army. Therefore Vaartaalee Devi is
also called as Dandanaathaa Devi. She is also called as Vaaraahee Devi.

217. Lalita Devi created a mace (a weapon) from her eye brows and gave it to
Dandanathaa Devi.

218. After this, Lalita Devi created two chariots from her chariot and gave them to
Mantrini Devi and Dandanatha Devi.

219. Mantini Devi’s chariot is called “Geya Chakra Ratha”. This chariot used to make musical sounds whenever it moved.

220. Dandanatha Devi’s chariot is called “Kiri Chakra Ratha”

221. Later, Lalita Devi hummed with rage. From this hum, 64000000 Yoginis were
born. Another 64000000 Bhairavas were also born. Innumerable Shakti Senas
(armies) were also created by her hum.

Lalitopakhyana – VII
( 7th Day)

Devi vijaya yatra (Devi’s victory procession)

222. Later Lalita devi, making the noise emanating from the four oceans as the
drums and accompanied with several other instruments proceeded for the battle
against Bhandasura.

223. From Lalitha devi’s Ankusham (=spear), ‘Sampat karidevi’, came out along
with crores and crores of elephants and started following Lalita devi (sampatkari
samarudha sindhura vraja sevita ) .

224. Sampatkari Devi was sitting on the elephant named ‘Ranakolahalam’ (=battle
bustle, battle uproar).

225. From Lalita devi’s Pasham (=whip) arose Ashwaroodha devi along with a big
army of horses and was moving in front of Lalita devi.

(ashwarudhadhishtishtaswa koti kotibhiravruta) .

226. The horse carrying Ashwaroodha devi was named ‘Aparajitam’ (=one which
cannot be defeated).

227. Later , commander of the army Dandanatha devi played the drums to start
marching.

228. As the march started Dandanatha devi got down from her chariot and sat down on the lion. The lion is named ‘Vajraghosham’ (kirichakra ratha rudha damdanadha puraskruta)

229. All her soldiers started praising her by twelve different names.
(Panchami dandanatha cha sakjeta samayeshwari
tatha samaya sakjeta varahi potrini tatha
vartali cha maha sena pyajna chakreshwari tatha
arighni cheti samproktam nama dwadasakam yune)

230. Later Mantrini devi played the drums of marching. Her soldiers were mainly
decorated sensuously. They were playing veenas and singing.
231. Mantrini devi was moving in her Geyachakra ratha (circle of army formed by
singers) [geyachakra ratha rudha mantrini parisevita]

232. She was being praised by sixteen names.
Sangeeta yogini shyama shyamala mantra nayika
mantrini sachiveshani pradhaneshi shukapriya
vina vati vainiki cha mudrini priyakapriya
nipapriya kadambeshi kadamba vanavasini
sadamada cha namani shodashaitaini kumbhaja
One who recites this strotra can conquer all the three worlds.

233. Then, from the bird in the hands of Mantrini devi, appeared god Dhanurveda
with a spectacular bow in his hand and said “Mother! this bow is called chitrajeevam.
This quiver is akshaya (one which is unlimited, fills up spontaneously).Please
accept them for demolishing the demons.”

234. Now Lalita devi started moving with sugarcane, bow, arrows, spear and whip in the ‘srichakraraja’chariot.

235. She is being praised with 25 names
simhasanesi lalitha maharajni varankusha
sundari chakranatha cha samrajni chakrini ratha
chakreshwari mahadevi kameshi parameshwari
kamaraja priyakamakotika chakravartini
mahavidya shivananga vallabha sarvapatala
kulanatha amnayanatha sarvamnaya nivasini
shringara nayika cheti pancha vimshati namabhih
One who recites this stotra attains ashtasiddhi (8 spiritual accomplishments)

236. Bandasuravadhodyukta shaktisena samanvita in Lalita sahasranama stotram
means one who is ready with her army (shaktisena) to annihilate Bhandasura.
Bhanda’s war preparation :

237. While Lalita devi was proceeding for the war, many bad omens were observed in Bhanda’s ‘Shunyaka’ town.

238. Bhandasura called upon an urgent meeting along with his brothers Vishukra
and Vishanga to assess and evaluate the situation.
239. In the meeting vishukra spoke thus

a.) All gods have burnt themselves by jumping into fire, out of despair
b.) From that fire arose mother goddess, who rejuvenated all gods
c.) She is coming for a war with us, along with an army of women
d.) Those gods are trying to cut stones using tender leaves
e.) Even then we should not neglect that woman. We must send our army
immediately

240. Vishanga told

a.) Any work should only be done after properly thinking about it.
b.) First we must send spies and see how powerful their army is.
c.) We must not under estimate the enemies army.
d.) In the past Hiranyakashipa was killed by an animal.
e.) Sumbha and Nishumbha were killed by a woman.
f.) So, we must get more information about her
g.)Who is she ? Who is supporting or protecting her?
What does she want? All these queries should be answered

241.Listening to this Bhandasura shuddered the proposal with a sarcastic grin. Even if all the gods are behind her, we have nothing to fear. Do not entertain such useless thoughts and spoil your mind

242. Immediately Bhandasura ordered ‘Kutilaksha’, Commander-in-chief of his army, to protect the fort.

243. He ordered the priests and ministers to perform abhichara(black magic) homa

244.He ordered Lalita to be dragged to him holding her hair

245.Now, the demons played the war drums. Kutilaksha sent the first batch of army with demon Durmada as the commander

246.At Shunyapura Kutilaksha made arrangements for protection –
Eastern entry _ Tala jangha, Southern entry – Tala bhuja, Western entry — Tala
griva, Northern entry – Tala ketu were placed along with 10 akshohini army each.

247.For each corner of the town another 10 akshohini was allocated for protection
Shakti senas’s uproar

248. Durmada was confronted by Sampatkaridevi and her army of elephants (who
arose from Lalita devi’s spear)

249. Realising that his army was being defeated Durmada himself came for the war seated on a camel

250. Sampatkari devi who was seated on ‘Ranakolahala’ her elephant, faced him.

251. In the ferocious battle Durmada was able to destroy one gem from the crown of Sampatkari devi.

252. Angry with this, Sampatkari devi killed Durmada with her arrows which pierced his heart

253. With that the remaining demons fled back to their town out of fear.

254. Listening to this Bhandasura was very angry and sent Durmada’s elder brother Kurunda for battle. He is an expert in maya yuddha(war using mystical powers)

255.Full of vengeance he attacked Sampatkari devi

256. In the meanwhile Ashwarudha devi who had taken birth from Lalita devi’s whip came forward and pleaded Sampatkari devi to give her a chance to fight with this demon.

257. Now Ashwarudha devi along with her army pounced upon Kurunda

258. Ashwarudha devi mounted on ‘Aparajita’ was herself leading the army. In that battle she killed Kurunda by piercing his chest with her spear. Remaining demons fled for their lives.

259. Bhanda became furious. He sent a huge army this time (100 akshohini) along
with 5 commanders.

260. They materialised serpent gods by name ‘Ranashambari’ which attacked
shaktisena. The demons had previously defeated gods using these mystic powers.

261. Crores and crores of serpents, which arose from the serpent gods, started
torturing the shaktisena.

262. They were taking birth again and again even after being killed a number of
times.

263. Then Nakuli devi mounted on garuda came to the battlefield. From her mouth
came out 32 crores of mongooses. These mongooses started gobbling up all the
newborn serpents immediately after birth.

264. Then Nakulidevi killed Ranashambari with Garudastram

265. All the five commanders now attacked Nakuli devi

266. Nakuli devi’s mongoose army attacked them from the rear

267. In that ferocious battle Nakuli devi who was mounted on Garuda was making
aerial strikes on the demons who were not able to catch her. She killed the five
commanders by chopping of their heads

268. Bhanda after listening to this sent Valahaka and other seven commanders along with 300 akshohini army.

269.These seven demons are sons of demoness named Kikasa.In the past they
obtained a boon from sun god that- at the time of war sun would reside in their
eyes.

270. As soon as these demons entered the battlefield the shaktisena army started
becoming blindfolded and incapacitated unable to face the brilliance of their eyes.
Demons started becoming ferocious.

271. Immediately the bodyguard of Dandanatha devi –named Tiraskarinika devi,
entered the battle field mounted on an aeroplane named ‘Tamoliptam’.

272.At the order of Damdanatha devi she discharged an arrow named ‘Andhanastra’,and the seven commanders were forced to close their eyes. Now shakti sena started pouncing back.

273. Keeping Tiraskarinika devi in the forefront, other gods killed the seven
commanders.

274. With this blow Bhandasura lost his senses. He called upon his two brothers for a discussion.

Lalitopakhyana – VIII
( 8th Day)

275. In that meeting it was decided that Vishanga would attack devi’s army from its rear side in a treacherous way (This is called Parshti grahamu). This decision was taken because they got information from their spies that Lalita devi was having less army and protection at her army rear end and it was easier for them to approach Goddess Lalita devi directly and attack her, if they approached from the back.

276. After the first day’s war, at dusk, Vishanga with a small army proceeded to the rear side of Lalita devi’s army noiselessly without any drums

277. By then Lalita devi’s army was moving westward. Vishanga along with his army moved north wards and then turned to reach eastern side

278. He was able to see Srichakraraja chariot very near to him. Lalita devi was
looking forward observing the movement of the army. She was not having much
army close to her

279. Taking this opportunity Vishanga attacked devi’s chariot from the rear, all of a sudden.

280 Anima and other gods who were present there were taken back at this sudden
attack but quickly recovered themselves and prepared for a counter fight.

281. Exactly at the same time Kutilaksha along with ten akshohini army attacked
from the front side

282. Seeing attack from both ends Lalita devi was a little angry. In the mean while,
struck by an arrow from Vishanga, the fan present in Lalita devi’s hand fell down and broke

283. Seeing this Tithidevatas got very angry. They went and requested Lalita devi
that Vahnivasini and Jwalamalini nitya devas have property and capacity of self
illumination. If they glow then the demons who are in the dark will all become
visible.

284. With the permission of Lalita devi, Vahnivasini and Jwalamalini devis started
glowing like fireballs. All the demons who were hiding in darkness now became
visible.

285. Now the 16 nitya devi’s became outrageous and attacked Vishanga’s army. All the commanders in the demons army died.

286. Wounded all over the body Vishanga fled for his life shamelessly. Even
Kutilaksha who attacked from the front also fled. (In Lalita sahasranama -26
nityaparakrama topa nirikshana samatsuka seeing the valour of nityadevatas,Lalita
devi was very pleased)

287. Mantrini devi and Dandanatha devi felt unhappy about this unprecedented
attack in the night They felt very sorry that their arrangements of protection were
not up to the mark.

Agni prakara (compound wall made of fire)

288. Both of them went to Lalita devi, expressed sorry for what had happened and
made arrangements for protection.

289. At the instance of Lalita devi,Jwalamalini devi made a compound wall of fire
around the devi’s army The fire wall is 100 yojana wide and 30 yojana tall. (1 yojana is approximately 8 miles).

290.At the southern end of fire wall is a 1 yojana long entry, to enable devi’s army
go out and fight because Shunyapuram is facing this end.(L.S.N—jwalamalini
kashipta vahniprakaramadhyaga)

291. Stambhini devi a member of Dandanatha devi family along with 20 akshohini
senas was protecting this entry point. She is also called Vighna devi.

292. By then it was dawn.

293. Knowing all this news Bhandasura was in despair and started thinking what to do.

294. This time he sent all his 30 sons for the war

295. After listening to this news Lalita devi’s daughter Baladevi wanted to fight
these demons herself.

296. Baladevi is the only daughter of Lalita devi .She resembles Lalita devi very
much but is always only 9 years old .She stays permanently with her mother only.

297. Baladevi approached her mother and requested for permission to fight in the
battlefield

298. At the outset Lalita devi denied but looking at the courage and will power
exhibited by Bala devi she ultimately gave permission.

299. Seeing Bala devi coming for the war Mantrini and Dandanayaka were
astonished , they stood as her body guards.

300.Now Baladevi started ferocious fighting with Bhanda’s sons. Every one was
surprised at her valour

301.Whole of the second day Baladevi fought. That evening she shot 30 arrows at a time and killed 30 sons of Bhanda.

302. Lalita devi was very happy and she embraced her daughter (L.S.N—
Bhandaputravadhodyukta bala vikrama nandita)

303. Bhanda was grief stricken. Desperately he himself started off for the war

304. Vishukra and Vishanga pacified Bandasura

Vighnayentra nashnam (Destruction of the mystic symbol of obstacles)

305. Now Bhanda sent Vishukra to the warfront.

306. In the darkness Vishukra approached the Vahniprakara (firewall) –on a flat
stone he drew a mystic symbol and performed some black magic.
307. He then threw that mystic symbol forcefully. It fell in the firewall at some point.

308. With the affect of that yantra (mystic symbol) laziness crept into the minds of
the devi’s army

(a.) Some started arguing that war itself was wrong.
(b.) Some said, “Why should we fight on behalf of the gods”.
(c.) Some said, “Who is this Lalita devi? Who has given her superior ship over us?”
(d.) Some said, “If all of us together decline not to fight what can Lalita devi do?”
(e.) All of them fell into sleep of ignorance.

309. After midnight Vishukra along with 30 akshohini sena surrounded the fire
barrier.

310. Even then none of the members of shaktisena moved under the influence of the ignorance caused by the Vighna yentra

311. However, Vighnayentra was not able to affect Mantrini and Dandanatha. But
they were both very sad worried seeing the state of their army.

312. Not knowing what to do they went and enquired Lalita devi.

313.Then Lalita devi looked at the Kameshwara’s face and passed a gentle smile.

314. From her smile Ganapathi took birth.

315. He immediately searched in the firewall and noticed the ‘vighnayentra shila’ at one place. He broke the shila into pieces and powder with his tooth.
(kameshwaramukhaloka kalpita sri ganeshwara
Mahaganesha nirbhinna vighnayentra praharsita)

316. With that shaktisena’s ignorance and sleep was dispelled, they immediately got ready for the war.

317. Now Vighneswara along with this army came out of the fire barrier and started fighting with Vishukra.

318. Vishukra sent Gajasura to attack him but soon Gajasura was slayed. Seeing this Vishukra ran away.

Annihilation of Vishukra and Vishanga

319.After discussing with Bhandasura, Vishukra came back to war, along with his
brother Vishanga and son- in –law. With this the third day war had started.

320. Mantrini and Dandanatha both started to fight simultaneously

321. In the front was Dandanatha devi mounted on her kirichakra ratha with her
plough weapon (halayudha) swirling it rapidly.

322.Behind her was Mantrini devi mounted on Geyachakra ratha as an archer with
bow and arrows

323.Dandanatha devi attacked Vishunga.

324. Mantrini devi confronted Vishukra.

325. Ashwarudha, Sampatkari and others attacked the son- in-law of the demons
who had come .

326.The army of the demons started slackening. Noticing this Vishukra discharged
Trushastram(weapon which produces thirst). Shaktisena’s army started to
experience intense thirst.

327.Then Dandanatha devi invited ‘Madyasamudra’(=ocean of liquor) devata from her kirichakra and quenched their thirst.

328. Madyasamudra deva showered liquor rains. With that the army quenched their thirst and rejuvenated.

329. By sunset most of the demons including Bhanda’s son-in-law had died.

330. Then Shyamala devi (Mantrini) fought with Vishukra and killed him with
‘Brahmashironamakastra’ (a powerful weapon named brahmashira)

331. Dandanatha devi (Potrini) killed Vishanga with her plough weapon and pestle.
However in Lalita sahasranama it is mentioned that Vishukra was killed by Varahi
and Vishanga was killed by Mantrini—
Mantrinyamba virachita vishanga vadhatoshita
Vishukra prana harana varahiveryanandita

332. By then it was past midnight.29

Lalitopakhyana – IX
( 9th Day)

333. Only Kutilaksha the commander in chief was left over to console Bhandasura

334.Bhanda along with Kutilaksha started towards the battlefield

335.2185 akshohini army along with 40 commanders followed him

336. A). He boarded a chariot named ‘Aabhilamu’(=dreadful).It is dragged by 1000 lions instead of horses.

B). His sword is named Yatana (= torture in hell)

337. Noticing this Lalita devi herself started moving in her Srichakra raja ratha
towards the warfront

338. Behind her was Mantrini in Geyachakra ratha followed by Potrini in kirichakra ratha.

339.Other shakti deities followed her in crores.

340. In the usage of sastra’s (mystic weapons) and pratyastra (corresponding
neutralising weapons), none of them were drawn aback
(LSN—Bhandasurendra nirmukta shastra pratyastra varshini)

341.Now Bandasura by his mystical powers regenerated Madhukaitabha, Raktabija and other old demons

342. Then Lalita devi made a violent frenzied laughter –Durga devi and other deities described in chandisaptashati were born and slayed these demons

343. Now Bhanda generated Somaka and other demons

344. Then Lalita devi generated the 10 incarnations of Vishnu from the finger tips of her hands (LSN – Karanguli nakhotpanna narayana dasakrutih)

345. Sun was about to set. Lalita devi decided not to delay any more. She then
discharged Narayana astra and Pashupata astra and destroyed the demons and their
commanders who were all turned down into ashes
(LSN—Mahapashupatastragni nirdagdhasura sainyaka)

346 .Now Bhandasura was the only one left

347. Lalita devi discharged the Mahakameshawarastra and annihilated Bhandasura .
Immediately his shunyaka town got burnt down. (LSN—Kameshwarastra nirdagdha sabhandasura sunyaka)

348. Gods proclaimed victory of Lalita devi on the drums and they showered flowers,
lighted camphor blazes and praised victory slogans

Kama sanjeevanam(rebirth of kama)

349. Brahma, Vishnu, Indra and other gods praised Lalita devi’s grandeur
(LSN—Brahmopendra mahendradi deva samstuta vaibhava)

350 In that praise they proclaimed thus
A.) Mother! Bhanda is dead but his friend Taraka is still alive to trouble us.
B.) To annihilate him Shiva must have a son
C.) We were trying for the same but in the mean while Manmadha (god of love) died
and all these events happened
D.) Therefore kindly give rebirth to Manmadha and perform the marriage of Shiva
and Parvathi.
351. Lalita devi smiled compassionately and looked at Kameshwara(Lord Shiva). From her blessings

Manmadha took rebirth .(LSN- Haranetragni sandagdha amasanjeevanaushadhih=
Lalita devi is the sacred herb sajeevini which gave rebirth to Manmadha who was
destroyed by the fire from Shiva’s eye).

352. Rati and Manmadha prostrated to the mother goddess and praised her.

353. The mother goddess blessed them and instructedA.) Manmadha! Now you need not fear
B.) Go once again and cast your magical arrow on Lord Shiva
C.) Shiva will marry Parvathi
D.) With my blessings Shiva will do you no harm.
E.) From now on you can enter every ones body and cause aesthetic/ sensuous
pleasures to them.
F.) Protect my devotees

354. At the instructions of mother goddess Manmadha with his family went and cast his magic charm on Lord Shiva. This time Shiva left renunciation and started searching vehemently for parvathi

355. Then Manmadha cast magical arrows on Parvati also

356. Shiva was very pleased with parvathi’s penance. He appeared before her,
granted a boon and married her.

357. Kumara was born to Shiva and Parvathi .He became the commander of
god’s army and annihilated Tarakasura. He then married Devasena devi, the
daughter of Indra.

358.After helping all the gods Manmadha left to Sripura to serve goddess Lalita devi.
Sripura varnanam(description of Sripura )

What does Sripura mean?

359. After the annihilation of Bhandasura, Trimurtis called upon the cosmic architect Viswakarma and the architect of demons Maya , and instructed them to construct 16 palaces in 16 kshetras (sacred places) for the residence of Lalita & Shiva (The lord of Kaamdeva)

Meru and other gigantic mountains (9) Jalasamudra and other oceans (7) –total 16
Kshetras. The palatial buildings of mother goddess located in these kshetras are
called Sripura

360. Wherever a Sripura is located , its dimensions are like this.
A.)Mount Meru has 4 peaks
One on the eastern side, one on north west, one on the south west
Each is 100 yojanas tall and 100 yojanas wide these are trimurtis worlds
In the center of these is the fourth, which is 400 yojanas tall and 400 yojanas wide
B.) Sripura is on the Middle peak
Sripura has got metallic compound walls 7 in number they are square shaped. Each
wall is separated from the next one by one a distance of 7 yojanas.
1. Kalayasa (iron)wall – The perimeter of this wall is 16 thousand yojanas
2. Kansya (bronze)wall—Between these two is the first chamber. Several trees and
gardens are located here. Mahakali and Mahakala are the gate keepers
here.Kalachakra is their throne.
3. Tamra(copper)wall—Here is a forest of Kalpavruksha (wish granting tree).This is
also called as Kalpavatica. This is the second chamber.Vasanta(spring) is its
protector .Madhusri and Madhavasri are his consorts.
4. Seesa(lead)wall—Here is a forest of santana trees(progeny granting).This is the
third chamber Grishma(summer) is the ruler . Shukrasri and Shuchisri are his
consorts.
5. Aarkuta (brass)wall—This is the fourth chamber. Here is a forest of Hari chandana
vruksha(yellow fragrant sandal wood).The ruler is varsharutu(rainy
season).Nabhasri and Nabhasyasri are his consorts.
6. Panchaloha(five metal) wall—In this fifth chamber is a garden of mandara trees
(Calotropis gigantea) .Sharadrutu is the protector . Ishasri and Urjasri are his
consorts.
7. Raupya(silver)wall –Sixth chamber .Parijata tree forest .Hemantarutu is the
protector. Sahasri and Sahasyasri are his consorts.
8. Hema(gold)wall—Seventh chamber. Kadamba forest. Sisira (winter)is the
protector. Tavasri and Tavasyasri are his consorts. This is where Mantrini devi
resides in a temple.She has one more quarter very close to that of Lalita devi in
Mahapadmatavi(forest of lotuses).When she is on duty she stays in that quarter
In this seventh chamber near Mantrini’s residence Matanga kanyas are.
constantly singing and dancing
Matanga kanyaka charitra(story of Matanga kanya)

361. In the olden days a sage named Matanga used to expand the creation by
virtue of the power of his penance.

362. His son Matanga was a great saint and practicant of penance. He was friend
of Himavanta.

363.Once Himavanta started boasting saying that he was the father of Gauri devi.

364. With that Matanga felt humiliated and started great penance for Mudrinidevi
(Mudrinidevi is none other than Mantrini devi who had received a ring from Lalita
devi .She is also called Shyamala devi

365. She was very happy with his penance and gave boon that she herself would
be born as a daughter to him.

366.A few days later Shyamaladevi appeared in the dream of Siddhamati
devi(consort of Matanga).Shyamaladevi gave her a flower from the bunch
decorating the formers ear.

367. Very soon she had a female child who was named Laghushyama as she was
born in a very short duration (Laghu = short, small). She was also called Matangi,
Matanga Kanyaka. With her power she generated crores of virgins, who stay near
Mantrini devi’s house and keep singing her praises all the time.

Lalitopakhyana – X
( 10th Day)

The Compounds of precious stones:

Inside the golden compound, there are eleven prakaras (compounds) one inside the
other and inside them there are six more compounds described hereunder. All these
compounds are perfect squares. Here also, the distance between one compound and the other is Seven yojanas. (yojana is a measurement of length of about nine miles).
1. Pushyaraga Prakara (The compound of Topaz)
The area between the golden compound and this one is called Pushyaraga area.
Here male and female Siddhas reside. Those who were born earlier in the race of
Siddha and who obtained attainment (Siddhi) in their spiritual practices worshipping
the Divine Mother, stay here as Siddhas and gladly continue to worship Her.
2. Padmaraga Prakara (The compound of Ruby)
Here celestials of the species called Caranas reside. Those who were born in Carana
world and worshipped the Mother are reborn here, after attaining Her grace.
3. Gomedhika Prakara (The compound of Agate)
In this arena, Kala Sankarshani devi resides. She is worshipped b the Yoginis and
Bhairavas.
4. Vajra Prakara (The compound of diamonds)
Apsaras and Gandharvas (divine dancers and singers) stay in this arena. They are
ever engaged in the Japa (repetition) of the Divine Mother’s names and stay here
happily. The river Vajranadi flows in this place. The Goddess Vajreswari stays here.
When the demon Bhanda swallowed the diamond weapon (Vajra Ayudha) of Indra,
he could get back his weapon by worshipping the Mother here.
5. Vaidurya Prakara (The compound of Cat’s eye)
Those of the netherworld, who attained spiritual achievements by worshipping the
Mother, stay in this arena. The emperor Bali also resides here.
6. Indraneela Prakara (The compound of Sapphire)
Those people who were born on the earth stay in this area enjoying pleasures, after
their worship of Lalita during their lifetime there. Soon after the effect of their punya
(merit) is exhausted, they will be born again as human beings on the earth. By the
effect of their previous pious deeds, they again worship the Mother and return once more to this pious place. Due to the blue colour of these precious stones, the dark effect of likes and dislikes persists in them. Hence they are born again and again.Those who can control their senses in toto merge in the ultimate state of salvation,
i.e., in the Divine Mother. They do not have rebirth.

7. Mukta Prakara (The compound of pearls)
Several rivers named Tamraparni, Mahaparni, Sadamukta, Sadodaka etc. flow in this area. The celestials who worshipped the Mother and chanted her Mantras stay here. The cities of the rulers of the eight sides exist here. (The eight sides are East, West,North, South, North-East, South-East, North-West and South-West).
8. Marakata Prakara (The compound of Emerald)
The abode of the Goddess Dandanatha also called Varahi exists in this area. There is a garden of golden palm-trees here. The Goddess Unmattabhairavi, Svapnesvari, Tiraskarini devi, Kirapada devi reside in this area. When Goddess Dandanatha is on duty, she stays in a separate palace in the forest of Mahapadma (Big lotuses).
9. Vidruma Prakara (The compound of Coral)
In this area, Brahma along with sages like Marica stays and worship the Divine
Mother.
10. Manikya Prakara (The compound of Gem)
This area is also called the hall of gems i.e. Manikya Mantapa. Her Vishnu worships the Mother.
11. Navaratna Prakara (The compound of several precious stones)
In this area exists a huge hall with thousands of pillars. Here Siva along with his
attendants constantly supervises the activities being done as per the orders of LalitaDevi.
12. Manomaya Prakara (The compound of mind)
The entire area is a big well of Amruta (nectar). The Goddess Tara resides here.
Along with her attendants, she rows a big boat and takes her devotees inside along
with Her.
13. Buddhi Prakara (The compound of the intellect)
The entire area is a big well of Bliss. The captain of the ship in this arena is the
Goddess Varuni. She is also called as Sudha malini and Amruteswari.
14. Ahankara Prakara (The compound of Egoism)
The entire area is a big well of criticism and nectar; The water of this well is nothing
else than the nectar in the nerve Sushumna (The central nerve between Ida and
Pingala nerves of one’s backbone. The captain of the ship in this area is the Goddess
Kurukulla.
15. Suryabimba Prakara (The compound of the Sun)
Here brilliance comparable to the light of the rising Sun exists always. Plenty of
flowers called Kuruvinda are abundant here. The Sun performed penance here and
obtained brilliance. Martanda Bhairava stays here. He has a very luminous form.
His three wives are Mahaprakasa Sakti, Cakshusmati Sakti and Chayada Sakti (The powers of great brilliance, eyesight and shade.
16. Candrabimba Prakasa (The compound of the Moon)
Moonshine ever exists here. The Moon performed penance here and attained
illumination. Somanatha, the Lord of the stars is the chief deity of this area.
17. Srungara Prakara (The compound of attraction)
This area is full of waters of eroticism. Here Manmatha, (Cupid-the god of love)
does Japa of the Mother’s sacred names, rowing in a boat. Only those who are of
pure mind by nature can cross this area.
18. Cintamani Gruha (The abode of Gems)
This is the great palace of Sricakra. It is called Mahapadmatavi also. Around the
mansion, hundreds of thousands of lotus like palaces exist.
a) To the east of this place, there is a large vessel with a diameter of one
Yojana. This is called Arghya Patra (the vessel used to wash hands)
b) At the south-east corner exists Cidagnikunda (The fire pit of knowledge)
c) At the south-west exists Sricakra Ratha, the vehicle of Sricakra.
d)
e) At the north-west exists the Geya Cakra Ratha of the Goddess Mantrini.
f) At the north-east exists the Kiri Cakra Ratha of the Goddess Dandini.
g) In between the East and the south-east exists Mantrini gruha – the abode
of the Goddess Mantrini.
h) In between the East and the north-east exists Dandini gruha – the abode of
the Goddess Dandini
The description of the Palace of Cintamani
1. This palace is centrally located in Sripattana – The City of Sri (Wealth).
2. The walls of the palace are built with Cintamani gems.
3. The roof also is madeof the same stones of Cintamani.
4. The palace has three towers by names Iccha Sikhara, Kriya Sikhara and
Jnana Sikhara i.e. the towers of desire, action and knowledge.
5. The palace has four doors. They are called Amnaya devas. They are
Purva, Dakshina, Pascima and Uttara – Amnaya devas (on the East, South,
West and North sides). Amnaya means Veda.
6. Bindu Peetha (central seat of power) is centrally located in the palace.
7. This seat of power (peetha) has steps on four sides.
8. The entire structure described above is of the design of Sricakra.
9. All the male and female deities of Sricakra reside here.
10. The Bindu Peetha is called Sri Peetha, Maha Peetha, Vidya Peetha and
Ananda Peetha also (The seat of prosperity, greatness, knowledge and
bliss)
11. On the pedastal exists the cot of the five brahmas
12. The cot has four legs namely Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesana and Iswara.
These four deities have attained female form by worshipping Mother.
13. The plank resting on these legs is Sadasiva
14. To the east of this cot, there are 36 steps, representing the 36 aspects
of spiritualism
15. There is a foot-rest in front of the cot.
16. There is swan like bed on the cot.
17. On the cot, there are two pillows for the head and one pillow for the legs
18. A light red blanket is spread on the bed.36
19. The Lord Kameswara (Shiva) sits on the cot facing the East. He is ever in the
form of a sixteen year old boy. He has four hands and three eyes. He
wears erotic costumes.
20. On His lap sits Lalita Devi. She is ever in the form of a sixteen year old
girl. Her complexion is rosy. She wears erotic costumes. She has four
hands. Her decoration is the moon.
21. As she pleases Sadasiva, she is called Lalita (Lalana – to please)
Siva Kameswarankastha Siva Svadheena Vallabha
Sumeru madhya srungastha Srimannagara nayika
Cintamani gruhantastha
Panca Brahmasana sthita
Maha Padmatavi samstha
Kadamba vana vasini
Sudha sagara madhyastha
Kamakshi Kamadayini
The above names in the Lalita Sahasra nama indicate the Srinaara, the
Cintamani gruha (the palace of the Mother) and her other divine aspects
described above.
The Mother incarnated to kill the demon Bhanda. She is the Supreme Mother
as per these divine names, will achieve everything auspicious