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One of the unique features of Sanatan Dharma is the diverse margas, panths and Sampradayas that have their own Darshanas, Devis /Devatas, different pooja paddhatis associated with each Devata and Devis
In addition to these established sampradayas, there is Swatantrya for each individual to have an Isshta Devi or Devata, based on one's Sanskars, Guna, Iccha and Bhakthi pravritti.
Some might choose Shri Rama, some might choose kali or Vishnu. Once chosen the Isshta Devata or Devi becomes their Araadhya Devata.
Many spend their whole life time invoking their Isshta Devata.
Many spend their whole life time invoking their Isshta Devata.
For eg: Shri Tyagaraja composed his krithis predominantly on Shri Rama. His Rama Bhakthi became outpourings of songs and lyrics that are timeless.
Shri Tukaram's Isshta Devata is Shri Vitthala. Like wise Ramprasad's compositions are only on kali. Swathi Tirunaal composed on his Isshta Devata Shri Ananta Padmanabha. Meera Bai on Krishna, Lal Ded on Shiva, and all Nayanars on Shiva.
Isshta Deva mantra deeksha can be had from an authentic Guru as well. This would enhance the connection to the shakthi and darsana of Isshta Devata/Devi.
One can access the Saguna- Sakaara- Nirguna- Niraakara aspects of one's Isshta Devata.
One can access the Saguna- Sakaara- Nirguna- Niraakara aspects of one's Isshta Devata.
There is such fluidity and vast breadth of knowledge and anubhuti/ experience in Sanatan Dharma.
I often ask children which Devata/Devi they like and why? They often list all the Sakaara aspects that they like. Ganesha's ele face, or Murugan's peacock
I often ask children which Devata/Devi they like and why? They often list all the Sakaara aspects that they like. Ganesha's ele face, or Murugan's peacock
(I used to love Murugan as a child because of his peacock and vel..I still do but for more reasons). And then further deepen the conversation about what they mean or symbolizes, familiarize them with slokas and stotrams of that Devata, the temples and puranas etc
Another interesting factor about Isshta Devata, each one in a family could have different Isshta Devatas. There is acceptance and mutual respect of each other's swadharma. Each one would their own Subject matter expertise related to their Isshta Devata!
For ex: If I need any clarification on Sundara kandam, I would go to my Appuji Rao as his Isshta is Hanuman. He will almost live stream that episode of Sundara kandam to me with vivid descriptions and commentary, even mapping them to current political contexts!
We do not have One God. We have many Gods through which we can realize integrality. Bheda to Nirbheda. We acknowledge differences. Not diminish them. This is the wondrous beauty of Sanatan Dharma.
Jai Bhuvaneshwari
Jai Bhuvaneshwari
