Guest guest Posted June 7, 2008 Report Share Posted June 7, 2008 In Kumbhakonam in Tamil Nadu [which is approx. 375 kms. from Chennai] one can visit the powerful temple of Pratyankara Devi. This Devi appears to be the female form of Lord Narasimha. On every Amavasya Day, a homam is conducted in which the public can participate. If married, it is more beneficial that a couple should participate in the Puja. When we participated in this homam and puja in 2004, I was in bad shape financially. The participation in the homa costs Rs.5,000/- but you have to book 2 or 3 months in advance. The homa kunda is like a big well [about 15 ft in diameter and at least 15 ft in depth]. Tonnes of ghee are poured in the homa kunda followed by tonnes of dried Red Chilly, fruits and dry fruits. After all this is over, 100s of silk sarees are fed into the sacrificial fire. For those not able to afford Rs..5,000/- they can pay @ Rs.100/- per head sit in the close proximity to the sacrificial fire and the puja spot and also have full lunch as prasad. The idea is too let the smoke emanating from the homa kunda envelop you for aura cleaning and get rid of the evil eye, drive away your bad luck etc. Surprisingly, inspite of tonnes of dried red chillies fed to the sacrificial fire, there is not the slightest discomfort to the participants or visitors. At home, one has just to fry a few dried red chillies to realise what discomfort means. There is one more thing I would like to add from my experience. During bad times, we go in for a lot of remedial measures and it appears that nothing works. The bad times continue. But please do not ever think that your Mantra Sadhana, visiting temples, pouring milk over Shivlinga or the various religious objects you buy are a waste of time or money. All these keep on accumulating like the cumulative bank deposits. When good times start [akin to maturing of your Bank Deposit] all your goods deeds start bearing fruit. You gain multifold, you gain happiness, bliss and wealth beyond expectations. Besides, all your Mantra Saddhana etc. give you the strength to bear the calamaties with equanimity which is half the battle won. Faith in God, support from your family members and friends and your mental strength is what keeps you going during your bad days. Be grateful to God for provding a roof over your head and two square meals during your bad times. Nothing else is essential. There is one more think I would like to add. You bad times invariably leads you to charalatans posing as swamijis, astrologers and gemmologists who guarantee their remedial measures. Stay clear of these charlatans who convey the impression that Lord Brahma abides by their instructions. Do not buy what you cannot afford. Never make the mistake of pledging your jewellery, house or any other property to purchase any of their "guaranteed" remedial objects. The money would be better served by giving it away as charity to the poor. Regards Ramesh Iyer Explore your hobbies and interests. Click here to begin. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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