Surya Upasana in Tantra — The Sun's Family, the Arghya, and How a Mantra Is Strengthened

Why is Surya said to matter for mantras at all?

The speaker says there is no possibility of life on this earth without Bhagavan Surya Narayan, since all the grahas move by him and all herbs and plants are nourished by his rays. The Moon is held to be the karak and the strength of mantras, and the Moon's light comes from Surya — so the strength Surya gives to Chandra is what makes our mantras more nourished and more powerful.

The speaker begins the subject by saying that without Bhagavan Surya Narayan there is no possibility of life on this earth. If Surya is, only then is there life, because it is from him that all the grahas are set in motion, and from the waves and the divinity coming from him that all aushadhis and all vanaspatis are nourished. In just the same way, he says, Surya's counterpart in the mantra world is Chandra: the Moon has been held to be the karak of mantras, the strength of mantras. And the Moon's light, as everyone knows, is obtained from Surya Narayan. So the strength that Surya Narayan gives to Chandra Dev — the shakti, the samarthya that reaches the Moon through Bhagavan Surya — is the very reason our mantras attain greater nourishment and greater strength.

Is it enough to look at Shani, Rahu and Ketu for tantra siddhi?

The speaker says everyone today looks at Shani, Rahu and Ketu in the birth chart for mantra siddhi and tantra siddhi — reasonably so, since the hidden shaktis and gupt vidyas of tantra are read there. But if we leave Surya out, that is not right and not proper, because Surya is the king and adhipati of the nine grahas, and a king's word everyone must accept.

There is an issue in the birth chart in today's time, the speaker says: everyone looks at Shani for mantra siddhi and for tantra siddhi, and looks especially at Rahu and Ketu. For tantric siddhi in particular, Shani and Rahu are examined, because these hidden shaktis, these gupt vidyas, the siddhis of that kind that relate to tantra, are read there. Very good, he says — but if somewhere along the way we drop Surya, that is not right, not proper. The reason is that Surya is the adhipati of the nine grahas, their king. Whatever a king says, everyone has to accept. The king in turn accepts the word of his guru; Dev Guru Brihaspati, while being subordinate to him, still rules over him — but the speaker marks that as a separate matter of jyotish, whereas the subject running here is the one connected with tantra.

Where does Surya pujan appear in ordinary ritual?

The speaker says that without complete Surya pujan it is simply not possible to obtain the full fruit of any mantra. Whichever deity's yaga is being performed, Surya pujan becomes necessary and arghya is always given; in the navagraha pujan the first worship is of Surya; and at a kalash yatra by the river the first arghya goes to Surya, then to the dev river, then to the dev bhumi.

When you look at Surya's whole family, and when you see his mandal pujan, the speaker says, you will understand that without Surya pujan being done completely it is not possible at all to obtain the full fruit of any mantra. Whichever deity's yaga may be going on, Surya pujan becomes necessary there. Arghya is always caused to be given to Surya — whoever your acharya is, arghya to Surya and Surya pujan will certainly happen. In the pujan of the navagrahas, the first pujan is of Surya alone. When there is a kalash yatra and people go to the bank of the river for the Kalash sthapana, there too the first arghya is given to Surya; only then is arghya given to the dev river, and after that to the dev bhumi. The first arghya goes to Surya alone. So in every puja, the pujan of Bhagavan Surya is necessary.

Who are the witnesses when a sankalpa is taken?

Whenever we take a sankalpa, or make a witness of anything, the speaker says there are two who matter in the act of witnessing — first Surya Narayan and second Agni Dev. The witness of Surya Narayan becomes necessary.

Whenever we take a SankalpaA formal ritual resolution spoken aloud before an offering or observance, declaring its intent and dedicating its merit., whenever we make a witness of anything, then in the saksi karma there are two who are important, the speaker says: first Surya Narayan, second Agni Dev. The witness of Surya Narayan becomes necessary. He sets aside the question of adhikar and anadhikar in performing Gayatri, but notes what its particular importance is: the Gayatri sandhya, the trikal sandhya, is done especially after the sun has risen, in the Vedic manner. And the importance of the Veda itself, he says, is from Bhagavan Surya Narayan alone — so his puja would be supremely necessary.

Who are Surya Narayan's parents, and what does that settle?

Surya's father is Maharshi Kashyap and his mother is Aditi. The speaker says that by doing puja of Surya Narayan, whatever rin is connected with the rishis is removed — among the three chief rins named as dev rin, rishi rin and others, the rishi rin comes off in this way too.

Surya Narayan's father is Maharshi Kashyap, the speaker says, and we all keep hearing that we are all the offspring of Kashyap Rishi. So Kashyap Rishi is first of all his father, and his mother is Aditi. Therefore, by doing puja of Surya Narayan, whatever rin is connected with the rishis — the rin dosha that lies upon us, of which three are chiefly held: dev rin, rishi rin and others also counted — the rishi rin will come off in this way as well. He notes the ordinary route too: that rin is discharged by serving rishis and munis, those who have renounced the household and left the grihastha ashram. But when we do puja of Surya Narayan, the rishis are satisfied by that as well.

Who is Surya's father-in-law, and how does that touch vastu?

Surya's father-in-law is Bhagavan Vishwakarma, the dev shilpi, who is also called Twashta. The speaker says that without the father-in-law's grace the vastu dosha in our whole building will never end, and that Vishwakarma is worshipped in the middle of the three mekhalas of the havan kund.

Surya Narayan's father-in-law is Bhagavan Vishwakarma, the dev shilpi, the speaker says. He is also called Twashta — Rishi Twashta is one of his names. Among the twelve Adityas one name is also Twashta, but that one is different from Bhagavan Vishwakarma. So Vishwakarma became his father-in-law, and without the father-in-law's grace the Vastu dosha in our entire building will never come to an end. When we perform yajna and the rest, when we do havan, then in the three mekhalas that are made in the havan kund there is Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, and after that Ganpati pujan, and in the middle the pujan of Bhagavan Vishwakarma. So without Vishwakarma pujan the vastu dosha of our house cannot be fully pacified.

Who are Vishwakarma's parents and daughters?

The speaker says Vishwakarma's father is Vastudev and his mother is Bhuvana, the sister of Dev Guru Brihaspati. Vishwakarma has three daughters: Sanjna, who was married to Surya Narayan, and Riddhi and Siddhi, who were married to Ganpati.

The description comes, the speaker says, that Bhagavan Vishwakarma's father is Vastudev. And his mother — when you go to look — turns out to be the sister of Dev Guru Brihaspati, whose name is Bhuvana. So see here, he says: by doing puja of Surya Narayan, first the rishigan became pleased; and any vastu dosha in your building is being pacified too, because the grace of Dev Guru Brihaspati's sister and of Vishwakarma is also reaching you. After this it emerges that Bhagavan Vishwakarma has three daughters. One of those three was married to Surya Narayan: her name is Sanjna, and Sanjna by her own shakti and samarthya produced Chhaya. The other two daughters of Bhagavan Vishwakarma are Riddhi and Siddhi, whose marriage took place with Ganpati ji.

What does a Surya worshipper receive from Riddhi and Siddhi?

The speaker says that once you have begun Surya Narayan's puja, then whether or not his mandal pujan is performed, and even if we are worshipping him alone, riddhi and siddhi will come to you just like that — not the puja of Riddhi and Siddhi, but the attainment of riddhi and siddhi.

So if you have begun doing puja of Surya Narayan, the speaker says, then when his mandal pujan takes place — and even if it does not, when we are worshipping only him — there too you are going to obtain riddhi and siddhi just like that. Not the puja of Riddhi and Siddhi, he corrects himself, but the attainment of riddhi and siddhi. Understand this thing, he says: see how vast this is going.

Why did Sanjna create Chhaya?

The katha comes, the speaker says, that Sanjna could not bear Bhagavan Surya's tej and could not look at him clearly. So she said she was going to do tapasya, and by her own samarthya produced a second woman of exactly her own form, endowed with divine qualities, named Chhaya — identical in looks, walk and speech — and left her in her place.

Coming to his dharmapatni, whom we know by the name Sanjna, the speaker says the katha comes that Sanjna could not bear the tej of Bhagavan Surya and could not see him clearly. Because of which she said that she was going to do tapasya, and from her own samarthya produced a second woman of a form just like her own, endowed with divine qualities, whose name was Chhaya. In looking, in walking, in speaking, in every way she was just like Sanjna. Having placed her in her own position, Sanjna goes away to perform tapasya.

Which children were born to Sanjna, and what does each pujan give?

The sons born earlier, of Sanjna, are Vaivasvat Manu, Yama, and Yami — that is, the river Yamuna, Kalindi. The speaker says the pujan of Vaivasvat Manu brings prosperity to the household just like that, the pujan of Yama removes the fear of untimely death, and worship of Yamuna brings satisfaction and gati to the pitrs.

Among the sons who were born at that earlier time, before Chhaya, the speaker names Vaivasvat Manu, Yama, and Yamu — Yami, that is the river Yamuna, who is Kalindi. Now see here, he says. When the pujan of Vaivasvat Manu takes place, happiness and prosperity will come into the household just like that. When the pujan of Yama happens — because we are doing the puja of Surya Narayan — Yama too will be pleased by it, meaning the fear of Akala Mrityu will simply be removed. And if we do the pujan of Yamuna, then the satisfaction and the gati of the pitrs happen just like that. Why does Surya puja have so much importance? Understand from this, he says, how vast it is going.

Which children were born to Chhaya?

From Chhaya, the speaker says, came Savarni Manu — there is a Manu from her too — and then Shani Dev, whom people give great importance in today's time and of whom, as Shanishchar, people are most afraid.

After this the description comes, the speaker says, of the second wife, Chhaya. Among the sons and grandsons obtained from Chhaya, the children who were born, the first was Savarni Manu — there too a Savarni Manu, one Manu from her as well. Then Shani Dev. You give Shani Dev a very great importance in today's time, the speaker says. People fear Shani the most, they are frightened of Shanishchar the most.

What does Makar Sankranti signify in this family reading?

When Surya Narayan enters Makar rashi from Dhanu we celebrate Makar Sankranti — a father going to his son's house, the speaker says. It is the turn from Dakshinayan towards Uttarayan and is kept as a parva kaal: shraadh of the pitrs and pujan of the devas are done on a large scale that day, and daan-punya has great importance.

Surya loves his son Shani so deeply, the speaker says, that we will soon celebrate Makar Sankranti — when Surya Narayan enters Makar rashi from Dhanu rashi. A father going to his son's house: see how much importance Makar Sankranti has. When Surya Narayan moves from Dakshinayan towards Uttarayan it is observed as a parva kaal. The shraadh of the pitrs and the pujan of the devatas — all these things are done on a large scale on that day, and daan-punya has that much importance at Makar Sankranti. He is going into Shani's rashi at that time. So think, he says, of the fruit of Shani's pujan: when you do the puja of Surya, partially his grace too is obtained by you. Would there be any son who would not be pleased if you honour his father?

Who is Tapti, and how do she and Yamuna serve the pitrs?

Shani's sister is Tapti, who is in the form of a river, having received that boon. The Yamuna flows in the northern part of the Vindhya region and the Tapti in the southern part; they are two sisters, and when Surya Narayan is worshipped, the pleasure of both brings gati and satisfaction to our pitrs.

Then, the speaker says, Shani Bhagavan's sister is Tapti, who is in the form of a river, having obtained that boon. The Yamuna river flows in the northern part of the Vindhya region and the Tapti river in the southern part of the Vindhya region. Both are sisters. So from the pujan of these two — when the pujan of Surya Narayan is happening — the pleasure of both of them brings about the gati and the satisfaction of our Pitr.

Who else is counted among Surya's daughters?

After this there is one more sister whose name is Bhadra. Everyone knows the importance of Bhadra, the speaker says — people say Bhadra is upon us, the pleasure of Bhadra is necessary, we should not do anything in Bhadra kaal. Bhadra dwells in different places, which is what people look at at the time of Rakshabandhan.

After this there is one more sister whose name is Bhadra, the speaker says. Everyone knows the importance of Bhadra, everyone hears it: Bhadra has set in, the pleasure of Bhadra is necessary, we should not do anything in the Bhadra kaal. Bhadra dwells in different places, which is what we look at at the time of Rakshabandhan. So see the importance of Surya Narayan, he says, see the dignity of his family: Vaivasvat Manu, Yama, Yami; on the other side Savarni Manu, Shani, Tapti, and then Bhadra.

How were the Ashwini Kumars born?

After his first wife, Surya Narayan went to Sanjna, who had taken the form of a mare — an ashva, Ashwini — and was doing tapasya. From her womb at that time two children were born, who became the Ashwini Kumars. In this way Surya Narayan has ten principal sons and daughters, and besides these one more son, Revanta, from Sanjna.

After this, the speaker says, when Surya Narayan went to his first wife Sanjna, who had assumed the form of a horse — as Ashwini, that is in the form of a mare — and was performing tapasya, at that time two children were born from her womb, who became the Ashwini Kumars. Two more sons. In this way Surya Narayan came to have ten principal sons and daughters, and all ten have very great importance in their own place. Besides these, one more son was born, Revanta, from Sanjna. So the grace of all of these is obtained merely by doing the puja of Surya Narayan.

Navagraha pujan includes the adhipati and pratyadhipati devatas, so this grace reaches the japa of any mantra.

The speaker says that when you are doing japa of any mantra in the tantra kshetra, the pujan of the navagrahas along with their adhipati devatas and pratyadhipati devatas is performed — which the acharya has done — and so the grace of all these reaches you. And even if only Surya is worshipped in an ordinary way, the grace of all ten will be obtained.

Now you are doing japa of some mantra or other in the field of tantra, the speaker says. Along with the navagrahas, when the pujan of the adhipati devatas and the pratyadhipati devatas is done — and when the acharya ji has it performed — then their pujan happens too. So the grace of all of these is obtained by you. And even if ordinarily we do only the puja of Surya, still the grace of all ten will be obtained by us all.

What is Surya's relationship to Bhagavan Shri Krishna?

Bhagavati Yamuna's marriage took place with Param Narayan Bhagavan Shri Krishna, the speaker says. When Yamuna ji was married to Krishna ji, Surya Narayan became Narayan's father-in-law. In what way, then, would grace not come? Why would release from sorrows not be had, if we perform Surya pujan?

Leaving these aside, the speaker says, let us go even higher than them. You will all know that Bhagavati Yamuna's marriage took place with Param Narayan Bhagavan Shri Krishna. When Yamuna ji was married to Krishna ji, then Surya Narayan became Narayan's father-in-law. In what manner, then, would grace not come? How would grace not come upon you? Why would you not get release from sorrows, if we do Surya pujan? This is why Surya pujan has such very great importance. Whichever person is afflicted by whatever kind of suffering should do puja of some dev shakti.

What sankalpa is given at the yajnopavita sanskar?

Whenever a person's yajnopavita sanskar takes place, the speaker says, the mantra upadesh of Gayatri is given, and at that time the person is certainly told, and made to take a sankalpa, that lifelong he will give arghya to Surya.

If nothing else, the speaker says, we must all certainly know this much: whenever anyone's YajnopavitaThe sacred thread ceremony marking initiation into Vedic rites (Janeu) — if lapsed across generations, expiation (Prayashchitta) for each known generation is required before it can be resumed. sanskar takes place, the mantra upadesh of Gayatri is given. At that time it is certainly said to them, and a sankalpa is caused to be taken, that lifelong you will give arghya to Surya. Giving arghya to Surya satisfies so many devatas and satisfies the pitrs — so how would our welfare not come about?

Which tantric goddesses are located in the Surya loka?

Among the Nav Durgas, the speaker says, the kshetra held for Bhagavati Kushmanda — the place where she dwells — is held to be the Surya loka. Besides that, the form and the sthan held for Bhagavati Baglamukhi, worshipped chiefly in the tantra kshetra, is also held to be in the Surya mandal. So for full proficiency in tantra and for a mantra's full effect, Surya pujan becomes extremely necessary.

Besides all this, the speaker says, if you do upasana of the Mahavidyas in the tantra kshetra, or upasana of the Navadurga, then among the Nav Durgas too the kshetra held for Bhagavati Kushmanda — the place where she dwells — is held to be the Surya loka. Besides this, Bhagavati Baglamukhi, who is worshipped chiefly in the tantra kshetra: the form held for her and the sthan held for her is also held to be in the Surya mandal. So for complete proficiency in the field of tantra, and for the full effect of your mantra — that whenever you make a prayoga its full effect should fall — Surya pujan becomes extremely necessary. His pujan should certainly be done.

How should an ordinary person do Surya pujan?

Gayatri is not for everyone, the speaker says — the matter of adhikar and anadhikar arises — but the tantrokta Surya mantra and the Pauranik mantra are available everywhere. He gives the mantra as "जपा कुसुम संकासम कश्यप महादुतिम तमोवरिम सर्व पापाघनम प्रणतोस्मि दिवाकर", which anyone at all may speak, and says to recite it even twelve times daily standing before Surya Narayan.

Now, how should an ordinary person do Surya pujan? Gayatri is not for everyone, the speaker says: the matter of anadhikar and adhikar comes in. But the tantrokta Surya mantra and the Pauranik mantra are available everywhere. He gives it as: जपा कुसुम संकासम कश्यप महादुतिम तमोवरिम सर्व पापाघनम प्रणतोस्मि दिवाकर. This mantra anyone at all can speak, he says. If you recite this mantra even twelve times daily, standing before Surya Narayan — the transcript records the mantra exactly as spoken here, and later in the session the speaker repeats its opening differently, as जपा कुसुम संकासम कास्यपेयं महाद्युतिम.

Who may recite the Pauranik Surya mantra, and what is it prescribed for?

The speaker says that in today's time everyone wants a government job, and for that this mantra should certainly be recited twelve times daily while looking at Surya Narayan. For this, he says, you do not need the yajnopavita, and there is no need to look at whether it is a man or a woman: it is a Pauranik mantra, composed by Vedavyas ji.

In this time everyone wants a government job, the speaker says — leave aside the matter of tantra-mantra. For that, this mantra should certainly be recited twelve times daily while looking at Surya Narayan. For this you now do not need the YajnopavitaThe sacred thread ceremony marking initiation into Vedic rites (Janeu) — if lapsed across generations, expiation (Prayashchitta) for each known generation is required before it can be resumed., and there is no need to see whether it is a man or a woman. It is a Pauranik mantra, made by Vedavyas ji, composed by him. Do the recitation of this mantra twelve times daily while looking at Surya Narayan. If you cannot do that, he says, you can also do the tantrokta mantra of Surya Narayan.

What is prescribed when the body is in heavy affliction?

If there is very great suffering in your body from any cause — a badha given by devas, by pitrs, by rakshasa, pret or pishach, or arising from abhichar — for which no cure is working or medical treatment brings no benefit, the speaker says to recite the Surya kavach in the morning standing before Surya Narayan at least twelve times. The Surya kavach is quite a short kavach. Or utter the twelve names of Bhagavan Surya Narayan twelve times.

If there is no wish for that either, the speaker says, and if there is very great suffering in your body in any manner — that badha having been given by devas, being from the pitrs, from rakshasa, pret or pishach, or being on account of Abhichara — for which no treatment is working, or getting treated medically brings no benefit in your body, then recite the Surya Kavach in the morning, standing before Surya Narayan, at least twelve times. The Surya kavach is quite a small kavach, he notes. Or utter the twelve names of Bhagavan Surya Narayan twelve times. If you begin to continue this work, Surya Narayan's grace certainly comes upon you, and you obtain release from all these things.

Are there different Adityas for different months?

Different Adityas are held for the twelve months, the speaker says, and in each month the puja of a different Aditya takes place. When you enter a guru parampara, especially at the time of diksha, certain special sankalpas connected with all those Adityas are also performed, and you are told the particular importance of worshipping the Aditya of the month in which your diksha took place.

In the twelve months, different Adityas are held, the speaker says. In every month the puja of a different Aditya takes place. When you go into some guru parampara, then especially at the time of Diksha, certain special sankalpas connected with all those Adityas are also caused to be performed. And for the month in which your diksha takes place, the particular importance of the pujan of that month's Aditya is told to you.

Why is Surya the witness when a tantric dosha is incurred?

If you get caught somewhere in tantra — especially those who do some tantra practically, some tantra connected with shatkarma — and a dosha of it attaches, or a dosha of some other mantra attaches, or a fault of pronunciation, or japa of a mantra one had no right to so that the deity became angry, or some insult occurred at a Shakti Peeth or tirtha: Surya Dev is the witness of all these, because Surya Narayan never sleeps.

It is said, the speaker relates, that when you get stuck somewhere in tantra — especially those who do some tantra practically, who do some tantra connected with Shatkarma — and some dosha of it attaches, or the dosha of some other mantra attaches too. A fault in the pronunciation of a mantra; having done japa of a mantra without the right to it, so that the deity became angry; some insult occurring at a Shakti Peeth or tirtha sthal — Surya Dev is the witness of all these, because Surya Narayan never sleeps, he is forever blazing. Even when the region of darkness prevails he is pervading it; his rays are present even then, and he himself becomes the cause of the darkness too. Therefore, for release from dosha as well, Surya pujan becomes necessary.

What does arghya to Surya remove for a sadhak?

Giving arghya to Surya is prescribed for the condition that arises for men during sadhana, and for women too — swapnadosh and the like, from whatever cause, whether a cause of thought or an ordinary natural cause. Bathing in the morning and then giving arghya to Surya removes that dosha, the speaker says; many doshas are averted by giving arghya to Surya.

Giving arghya to Surya, the speaker says, is prescribed for the situation that arises for men at the time of sadhana, and which happens with women too — swapnadosh and the like, from whatever cause, whether that cause be of thought or an ordinary natural cause. For the removal of that dosha too it has been said to give arghya to Surya without fail. When one bathes in the morning and gives arghya to Surya, the dosha that has attached is removed. So the averting of many doshas comes about by giving arghya to Surya. Along with this, the pushti of your mantra takes place.

What can be done when a mantra stops giving its effect?

For a mantra that is not giving its effect, the speaker says eight kinds of vidhi are given in tantra — taran and such processes by which a mantra is awakened — but that happens under the supervision of a guru. Besides those, twelve more kinds are given, which come under Martand Tantra, some of whose vidhis are given in Kaal Sankarshan Tantra, and which are performed before Surya Narayan.

For a mantra that is not now giving its effect, the speaker says, eight kinds of vidhi are told in tantra — taran and such processes, by which a mantra is awakened. But that happens under the supervision of a guru. Besides those, twelve more kinds are stated, which come under Martand Tantra, some of whose vidhis are given in Kaal Sankarshan Tantra. These are performed facing Surya Narayan.

What is the bhojpatra vidhi for making a mantra chaitanya?

Surya's dear flower is the japa pushpa, what we call the gudhal flower. When a mantra has not remained chaitanya, the speaker says, then by the guru's permission the mantra is written twelve times on red bhojpatra with a red sandalwood pen and ink of rakta chandan, samputed with the tantrokta beej of Bhagavan Surya; the tree is plastered well with cow dung, the mantra is established at its root with a Surya kalash set up, and 12,000 japa of that mantra is performed.

One ordinary vidhi among them he gives. Bhagavan Surya Narayan's dear flower is the japa pushpa, which we call the gudhal flower. So when the mantra has not remained chaitanya, then by the guru's permission, upon red BhojpatraBirch bark, used to write a mantra or a person's name with a pomegranate-twig pen and red sandalwood ink for Tantric applications, such as placing a name upon a Shivlinga's base for a honey Abhisheka., with a pen of red sandalwood and with ink of rakta chandan itself, that mantra is written twelve times with the tantrokta beej of Bhagavan Surya as samput. The tree is plastered and smeared well with cow dung, the mantra is established at its root, a Surya Kalash is established, and 12,000 japa of that mantra is performed.

What happens if such a strengthened mantra is misused?

It is said that the mantra then becomes a hundred times more effective, the speaker relates — but on misusing that mantra, Surya himself gives a shraap. From Surya giving a shraap, illnesses such as apasmara arise in the body, skin disease, and disability in particular.

From this, it is said, that mantra becomes one that gives a hundred times more effect, the speaker says. But on misusing that mantra, Surya himself gives a Shraap. From Surya's cursing, illnesses such as apasmara arise in the body, skin disease, and in particular disability — all these doshas arise. So if you make ill use and misuse of mantras, he will also give the punishment for it. If he is awakening it and making it fit to give that much effect, then punishment too will be received.

What is prescribed when a Baglamukhi anushthan is not giving effect?

If you are doing an anushthan of some mantra of Bhagavati Bagla, especially of Bhagavati Mahapitambara, and the mantra is not giving effect — though there can be many causes for that — then, the speaker says, you should recite thirty-six times while looking at the rising sun that you can see, wearing yellow cloth, standing upon a kusha asana, and then again give arghya to Surya. By this, mantras work with great swiftness.

If you are performing an anushthan of some mantra of Bhagavati Bagla, the speaker says, and especially if you are performing the anushthan of Bhagavati Mahapitambara, and the mantra is not giving effect — although there can be a great many reasons for that. Even so, you should look at Bhagavan Surya, the rising sun which you are able to see, and recite thirty-six times while looking at him, wearing yellow cloth, standing upon a kusha asana, and then again give arghya to Surya. By this, mantras work with great swiftness, he says.

May an ordinary person give the tantrokta arghya with black pepper?

In the tantrokta vidhans it comes that arghya should be given to Surya with black pepper and other kinds of dravyas added, the speaker says — but an ordinary person should not perform this kriya, because the mantras will then become excessively effective and it is possible that their tej will itself trouble you. Give arghya with ordinary water alone, but with thirty-six recitations.

In the tantrokta vidhans it comes that arghya should be given to Surya with black pepper added and with other kinds of dravyas added, the speaker says. But an ordinary person should not perform this kriya, because the mantras will then become extremely effective, and it is possible that their tej will cause difficulty to you yourself. Because you do not know what your own level is, and the devas are not bound by any trivacha, so there is nobody there to hold you. So the ordinary process is: give arghya to him with ordinary water alone — but having recited thirty-six times.

Is Surya upasana prescribed for obtaining children?

If a son or grandson is not being obtained, or an obstruction arises in obtaining progeny, whether from a medical issue or any other, Surya Narayan is capable of granting it too. Bhagavati Katyayani, Bhagavati Shashthi, Usha and Pratyusha remain with Bhagavan Surya Narayan, and it is by their grace that whatever creatures in this world obtain progeny do so; it is said that they give protection up to the age of twelve years.

If a son or grandson is not being obtained, if an obstruction is arising in obtaining a son, whether it be some medical issue or some other issue, then Surya Narayan is capable of granting that too, the speaker says. Because of Bhagavan's blessing and his boon, the greatest source of obtaining progeny is Surya. Bhagavati Katyayani, Bhagavati Shashthi, Usha and Pratyusha remain with Bhagavan Surya Narayan. It is by their grace alone that whatever living beings there are in this world, and whatever living beings obtain progeny, obtain it — and it is said that up to the age of twelve years that Devi grants protection. That Shashthi Devi is the one we know in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh by the name of Chhathi Maiya, whom people serve and worship. That same Shashthi Devi's loka is also within the Surya loka, and for this reason she remains available twenty-four hours for the protection of children. So for obtaining progeny too, Surya upasana becomes extremely necessary.

Are Indra and Vishnu counted among the twelve Adityas?

You will be astonished to learn, the speaker says, that according to kalpa-bheda there are two forms held to be forms of an Aditya: one is Indra and the other is Vishnu. Both of these devatas have been held to be the form of one of the twelve Adityas — one Aditya form each, according to kalpa-bheda. In every kalpa the names are different, and in one kalpa Vishnu and Indra come within it.

Whatever wish you hold in life, the speaker says, by the grace of Bhagavan Surya all those things can be obtained — by doing ordinary work, leaving aside the special tantrokta vidhans altogether. Now, as for the twelve Aditya forms of Bhagavan Surya: you will be astonished to know that according to kalpa-bheda there are two such forms which are held to be the form of an Aditya, of which one is Indra and the second is Vishnu. Both these devatas too have been held to be the form of one of the twelve Adityas, one Aditya form each, according to kalpa-bheda. In every kalpa the names are different; in one kalpa Vishnu and Indra also come within it.

Whose grace comes together when Surya Narayan is worshipped?

So when we are doing upasana of Narayan, of Surya Narayan, the speaker says, the grace of Prajapati is obtained here too, the grace of Indra is obtained, and along with that the grace of Bhagavan Vishnu is obtained by us. The word Narayan is attached in any case, and directly he is the father-in-law of Bhagavan Shri Krishna, so his grace will certainly come.

So when we are doing the upasana of Narayan, the upasana of Surya Narayan, then here the grace of Prajapati is also obtained, the grace of Indra is also obtained, the speaker says. Along with that, the grace of Bhagavan Vishnu too is obtained by us. The word Narayan is attached in any case, and directly he is the father-in-law of Bhagavan Shri Krishna, so his grace too will certainly, certainly be received. So the grace of so many dev shaktis together is received by us from doing the puja of Bhagavan Surya, from his aradhana and upasana.

What must be observed most carefully in Surya-related worship?

In the pujan of Bhagavan Surya, of Bhagavati Shashthi, of Bhagavati Baglamukhi, Bhagavati Kushmanda and Bhagavati Katyayani — the shaktis connected with the Surya loka — the speaker says one has to take very great care of suchita, of cleanliness. Suchita matters in any dev process, but here especially, because Surya Narayan is a pratyaksha deva and gives fruit very quickly.

The most particular thing in the pujan of Bhagavan Surya, in the pujan of Bhagavati Shashthi, of Bhagavati Baglamukhi, Bhagavati Kushmanda and Bhagavati Katyayani — the shaktis connected with the Surya loka — is that one has to keep very great attention on suchita, on cleanliness, the speaker says. Although in whatever dev process you go into, in whatever anushthan, the importance of attention to suchita is there — but in their puja especially, because Surya Narayan is a pratyaksha deva and gives fruit very quickly. It is said that he gives fruit within a single day. Surya's grace moves with great swiftness, and however many dev shaktis are connected with him also grant grace very swiftly — whether it be Bhagavati Baglamukhi, Bhagavati Shashthi, Bhagavati Katyayani or Bhagavati Kushmanda; their grace too comes with much fierceness and much swiftness. Therefore in their puja there is no place for a mistake.

What niyams apply to a Surya anushthan?

Mistakes of what kind? Brahmacharya observance first of all, the speaker answers — brahmacharya should be observed in both mental and physical form. Their puja should ordinarily be done for a minimum of twelve days, though you may do even one day if you wish. If you have brought it into your nitya niyam it is not necessary there, but if you have taken a sankalpa of an anushthan, then you must observe the niyams, along with sattvik food and the other ordinary rules.

Mistakes of which things? BrahmacharyaStrict celibacy required through an extended ritual observance. observance first of all, the speaker says. Brahmacharya should be observed in both forms, mental and physical. Their puja should ordinarily be done for a minimum of twelve days — though if you wish, do it for even one day. If you are doing it regularly, having brought it into your nitya niyam, then it is not necessary there. But if you have taken a sankalpa of an anushthan, that we will do japa of the Surya mantra in such a way for so many days, then you should observe the niyam. Along with this, the observance of sattvik food and the rest, which are the ordinary rules — all of those you should certainly observe. In Surya upasana, after all, the fruit is direct.

What is Chakshushi Vidya used for?

Chakshushi Vidya is ordinarily known for removing any defect or disorder in the eye, the speaker says. Referring to a video he had put out saying that a bandhan can be placed by a guru, he says that if the eyes have been bound by a bandhan, then reciting Chakshushi Vidya while standing before Bhagavan Surya, doing trataka on the rising sun daily, can break that bandhan — in a single day if one's punya is strong enough, and otherwise in the twelve days that are held for it.

Besides this, the speaker says, the recitation of Netropanishad and such — Chakshushi Vidya, all of this — if you take up its study and practice, brings you special grace as well. Chakshushi Vidya we all ordinarily know as being for removing any dosha or vikar in the eye. Referring to a video he had recently put out in which he said that a bandhan can be placed by a guru, he says: understand Chakshushi Vidya in this way, that if the eyes have been bound by a Bandhan, then if you continue reciting Chakshushi Vidya standing before Bhagavan Surya, daily looking at the rising sun and doing Trataka while reciting it, then if possible — if your punya is that strong — the bandhan breaks and is removed in a single day. In one day your eyes open again. And ordinarily it is held to be twelve days, that in twelve days it opens. He adds that he is telling this as experience and practical matter, not as something written somewhere or a concocted tale.

Makar Sankranti is approaching, and tantrokta Surya sadhanas are to follow on the channel.

He says he is telling this because Makar Sankranti is coming, and at that time certain special tantrokta sadhanas connected with Bhagavan Surya will certainly be on the channel — so that for those who feel the sadhanas and mantras they have been doing are not bearing fruit, or are giving it only slowly, Surya's grace is the best thing for that.

He hopes listeners will understand this subject and the importance of Surya upasana, the speaker says, and adds that he is telling it because Makar Sankranti is about to come, at which time certain special tantrokta sadhanas connected with Bhagavan Surya will certainly be on the channel. They will be there so that, for the sadhanas you have been doing from before and the mantras you have been doing japa of, where it seems to you that fruit is not being obtained, or that we are obtaining something only slowly and want it quickly — for that, if we wish to do something more and special, then Surya's grace is the finest in this.

Does it matter if Surya is marak in one's birth chart?

Whether according to the birth chart Surya is marak for you or something else, there is no difficulty from that, the speaker says: no difficulty is going to arise from doing puja-paath. So that Surya's grace may be properly obtained, whenever a Ravi Pushya nakshatra falls, even a single day's special pujan or anushthan of Surya Narayan at that time brings his grace.

Whether according to this birth chart Surya is marak for you, or something else, there is no difficulty at all from that, the speaker says. No difficulty is going to arise from doing puja-paath. So that Surya's grace may be obtained in the proper way: whenever a Ravi Pushya Nakshatra falls, at that time too, if you do even a single day's special pujan or anushthan of Surya Narayan, his grace is obtained.

At what time of day must Surya puja be done?

Surya puja should never be done except in the morning, to the rising sun, the speaker says. Once he has climbed — if you go to do it at seven or eight o'clock, when we are not able to look at him — no fruit will be obtained. So the recitation of mantras is done while looking at him at the time he is rising, for two minutes, for twelve minutes, or for as long as one is capable of looking at him.

But Surya puja should never be done except in the morning, to the rising sun, the speaker says. When he has climbed up — that is, if you go to do it at seven or eight o'clock, when we are not able to look at him — then no fruit will be obtained. So in the morning, when he is rising, when he is being born, the recitation of mantras is done while looking at him at that time. Whether you do it for two minutes or twelve minutes, or however long your capacity to look at him lasts — do it for that long.

What is prescribed for those who do have the right to Gayatri?

Those who have the adhikar for Gayatri should certainly do at least one mala of Gayatri japa daily while looking at Bhagavan Surya Narayan, the speaker says. From this a special grace is obtained, an extremely special grace: the work that was to take a year for you will be completed within a month, whether it be a material work or spiritual grace.

Those who have the adhikar for Gayatri, the speaker says, should certainly do at least one Mala of Gayatri japa daily, looking at Bhagavan Surya Narayan. From that a special grace is obtained, an extremely special grace. The work which was going to happen for you in a year's time will be completed within a month — whether it be a material work or spiritual grace.

Which Aditya belongs to which month?

Going month by month among the twelve Suryas, the speaker names: in Chaitra month Vishnu is held to be one of the twelve Adityas; in Vaishakh month Aryama; in Jyeshtha month Vivasvan; in Ashadh, Anshuman; and in Phalgun month Rishi Twashta is worshipped in the Aditya form. In this way the twelve Adityas run on differently.

Returning to what he had said about the twelve months of Surya, the speaker gives some of the names month by month. In Chaitra month, Vishnu is held to be one among the twelve Adityas — Chaitra month is Bhagavan Vishnu's. In Vaishakh month, Aryama. In Jyeshtha month, Vivasvan. In Ashadh, Anshuman. In this same way the twelve Adityas will keep running on differently for you. In Phalgun month, Rishi Twashta is worshipped in the Aditya form.

What kind of school should children be admitted to?

Asked in what kind of school children should be admitted today, and what education to give at what age so that children advance spiritually along with materially, the speaker says everyone knows what kind of education is being given in convent schools. Try not to go into one; and if there is such a compulsion that the child must be put in that school, then take only the academic education from there and give the bauddhik education from home in such a way that the child can come out safe.

The question is good, the speaker says: we all know what kind of education is being given in convent schools in today's time. Try that you do not go into a convent school. And if there is such a compulsion that the child has to be put in that same school, then obtain from there only the academic education that is there. Give the bauddhik education from home in such a way that the child can escape and come out. Giving education from home is extremely necessary — this is exactly why having elders in the house is necessary in the present time.

No software is used to read a kundali, though apps can be found online.

Asked which software he uses to see a kundali and to suggest an app, the speaker says apps can be seen online, but that he himself does not use software at present.

Asked which software he uses for looking at a kundali, and asked to suggest an app, the speaker answers that you can look at apps online. He himself, he says, does not use software at present.

What is the effect of doing a chalisa or japa seated on an asan?

Asked what effect it has on the energy if, when doing any pujan — for example doing japa of a chalisa — one does it seated on an asan, the speaker answers that it can be done, and that an urdhva gati, an upward movement, takes place.

A listener asks what effect it has upon the energy if, when doing any pujan — for example if one is doing japa of a chalisa — one does it having placed an asan. You can do it, the speaker answers: an urdhva gati takes place.

How is a 32-name kavach re-charged during Navratri?

Asked whether a 32-name kavach can be taken off and, after japa of the namavali, offered upon it again to increase its energy at the time of Navratri, the speaker says it can be done. First, if you are wearing it on a thread, remove the thread; then make a fresh thread of thirty-two knots, bathe it again with raw milk, and while reciting Dev Atharvashirsha or the Devi Suktam perform its abhishek — and then offer upon it.

Asked whether a 32-name Kavach can be taken off and, after doing japa of the namavali, be offered upon again — to increase its energy and shakti at the time of Navratri — the speaker says it can be done. First of all, if you are wearing it on a thread, remove the thread. Then you should make a thread of thirty-two knots afresh. And having caused it to be bathed again with raw milk, while reciting Atharvashirsha, the recitation of Dev Atharvashirsha or the recitation of Devi Suktam, you should perform its abhishek — and then offer upon it.

Can havan be done every day in Gupt Navratri?

Asked whether havan can be done every day in the coming Gupt Navratri, the speaker answers: absolutely. Asked whether it can be done with the namavali of Maa Durga, he says yes, absolutely, it can be done.

Asked whether Havan can be performed daily in the coming Gupt Navratri, the speaker answers: absolutely. Asked whether it can be done with the namavali of Maa Durga, he says yes, absolutely, you can do it. He also notes a question about which granths among the tantra granths should be read, and a request for light on the Surya Siddhanta of Swami Vishuddhananda ji Maharaj, which he acknowledges without answering here.

The sadhana of Maa Mansa is done especially in the month of Bhadrapada.

Because the sadhana of Maa Mansa is done especially in the month of Bhadrapada, the speaker says he will try to give it by Navratri — he will give it before Navratri.

Since the sadhana of Maa Mansa takes place especially in the month of Bhadrapada, the speaker says, he will make an effort to give it by Navratri. He will give it before Navratri.

In what order should the parts of a nitya puja be done?

A listener recites his daily order: guru smaran, Datt mantra mala, then Sankat Nashan Ganpati stotra, then Bhagavati's Satnam kavach stotra, then Rudrashtak, then Bajrang Baan. The speaker answers that first comes guru smaran with the Datt mala; after that Ganpati; after Ganpati, Bhairav; then Hanuman ji; then Jagdamba, or Lakshmi Narayan; and Shiva ji should be done at the very end.

A listener sets out his nitya puja: first, remembering the guru, the Datt mantra mala; after that the Sankat Nashan Ganpati stotra; after that the recitation of Bhagavati's Satnam kavach stotra; after that the Rudrashtakam; then the recitation of the Bajrang Baan. Look, the speaker answers: first of all comes guru smaran, the Dattatreya mala — that is right. After that Ganpati. After Ganpati, Bhairava. Then going on to Hanuman ji. Only then Jagdamba, or Lakshmi Narayan, if you do that. And Shiva ji should be done at the very last.

Does Mata Durga also have apsaras?

Asked whether Mata Durga also has apsaras, the speaker answers that she absolutely does. To a further listener he says that the recitation of the Lakshmi Narasimha stotra can absolutely be done.

Asked whether Mata Durga also has apsaras, the speaker answers that she absolutely has them. To another listener he says that the recitation of the Lakshmi Narasimha stotra can absolutely be done.

What guidance is there for someone under Shani's sade-sati?

By Shani Dev's grace both spiritual and material development take place, the speaker says, and if his sade-sati is running it is not necessary that it will be one that gives you suffering. If, according to the kundali, Shani is a friendly graha for your lagnesh — if he is a friend to the lagna graha — then ordinarily he does not give adverse effects. Even so, get the kundali analysed, and if you want to do something proper for him, you can.

A listener says the sade-sati of Shani Dev has begun in his rashi and asks for guidance so that he receives no adverse effect from it and so that his spiritual and material development takes place. By Shani Dev's grace both spiritual and material development take place, the speaker answers, and if his sade-sati is running it is not necessary that it be one that gives you suffering. If according to the kundali he is a friendly graha for you, according to your lagnesh — if he is a friend for the lagna graha — then ordinarily he does not give adverse effects like that. Even so, having had the kundali analysed, if you want to do something proper you can do it for his sake.

How is the arghya to Surya to be given in practice?

One view is that arghya should be given to Surya only in wet clothes, the speaker says, but this is not possible for everyone, since not everyone bathes in a river; and where one has to step out on to a tiled terrace or balcony in wet clothes, one may slip and fall. So bathe well, go to the puja place, and give arghya wearing the clothes you have put on. While giving arghya the splashes of the water should not fall on you.

Two things come in here, the speaker says. One is the view that arghya should be given to Bhagavan Surya only in wet clothes. But this is not possible for everyone, because not everyone bathes in a river. And if one lives in such a place that one must step out of the house in wet garments, on to the terrace or the balcony, and tiles and the like are laid on the ground — you will slip and fall and go straight to the Surya loka, and then there will be no need to give him arghya at all, since we will have gone directly into his service. So there is no need to do it that way in the present time. Go well, bathe, reach the puja place, and after that give arghya to Surya wearing whatever garment you have put on. While giving arghya the splashes of the water should not fall on you.

What should the arghya water fall into?

For this, the speaker says, one should use such a vessel as one can fill with baalu — sand, as it is called — or fill with soil. Or plant something in it, especially the gudhal flower tree, which is called japa kusum. Give arghya into that itself in the name of Surya Narayan, while looking at him; that is proper.

For this, the speaker says, one should use such a vessel in which you can fill baalu, which is called ret, or in which you can fill mitti. Or plant some plant in it, especially the tree of the gudhal flower, which is called japa kusum. Give arghya into that itself in the name of Surya Narayan, looking at him — that is proper.

How is Surya pujan performed in short?

If you go into pujan proper there is a vast vidhan, Vedic and tantrokta, the speaker says; ordinarily, do the two methods he has given. The Pauranik mantra — which he here gives as "जपा कुसुम संकासम कास्यपेयं महाद्युतिम" — should be recited twelve times while looking at Surya Narayan. Give arghya and then recite twelve times looking at him. That much will be plenty.

Asked how Surya pujan is done, the speaker says that if you go into pujan there is a vast vidhan, in the Vedic manner and in the tantrokta manner. Ordinarily, do the two methods he has stated. The Pauranik mantra, which he gives here as जपा कुसुम संकासम कास्यपेयं महाद्युतिम — recite this mantra twelve times while looking at Surya Narayan. Having given arghya, then recite twelve times while looking at him. That much alone will be plenty. From this itself, whatever process of nitya puja and the rest is running for you will obtain considerable strength.

Can Surya upasana be done for a skin problem?

Asked whether Surya upasana can be done for a skin problem, the speaker says absolutely it can — that for a skin problem Surya upasana in particular ought to be done.

Asked whether Surya upasana can also be done for a skin problem, the speaker answers that it absolutely can be done. For a skin problem, Surya upasana in particular is the thing that should be done.

What is the Pauranik mantra of Mata Durga?

Asked what the Pauranik mantra of Mata Durga would be, on the pattern of the Pauranik Surya mantra, the speaker answers that the entire Saptashati is itself Pauranik mantra — it is filled with them.

A listener asks that, just as the speaker spoke about the Pauranik mantra of Surya, what the Pauranik mantra of Mata Durga would be. The whole of the Saptashati is itself Pauranik mantra, he answers. It is filled with them.

What does Ravi with Rahu in the third house indicate?

To a listener who says his lagna is Tula and that Ravi and Rahu are in the third place, in Dhanu rashi, the speaker answers that as it is in the third place there is pitru dosha in full form.

A listener states that his lagna is Tula and that Ravi and Rahu are in the third place, in Dhanu rashi. Since it is in the third place, the speaker answers, there is Pitru Dosha in full form.

What is the Aditya Hridaya Stotra, and can it be recited?

The recitation of the Aditya Hridaya Stotra can absolutely be done, the speaker says. The account comes that before Bhagavan Shri Ram was to slay Ravana, Maharshi Agastya gave him the upadesh of the Aditya Hridaya Stotra. Every deity has its own hriday paath — of Shri Ram, of Krishna ji, of any form of Jagdamba — and it is extremely swift in giving fruit and highly capable of granting protection.

Asked about the Aditya Hridaya Stotram, the speaker says its recitation can absolutely be done. About the Aditya Hridaya Stotra this account comes, he says: that before Bhagavan Shri Ram was to slay Ravana, Maharshi Agastya Rishi gave the upadesh of the Aditya Hridaya Stotra to Bhagavan Shri Ram. Every deity has its own hriday paath — whether it be of Bhagavan Shri Ram, of Krishna ji, of any form of Jagdamba. All of them have a hriday paath, which is extremely swift in giving fruit and quite capable of granting protection of a very high order. This Aditya Hridaya Stotra is of that same kind.

Until what hour may arghya be given to Surya?

Asked until what time arghya can be given to Surya, the speaker says: as early in the morning as possible. As long as the lalima, the redness, remains in him, until then alone it is proper to give arghya.

Asked until what o'clock arghya can be given to Surya, the speaker answers: as much in the morning as is possible. As long as the lalima remains in him, until that time alone is it proper to give arghya.

What if one cannot wake at half past five to give arghya?

Asked what to do when one cannot get up at 5:30 in the morning, the speaker says that if your work is such that you are not able to rise early, that is a different matter. Then at the very least do japa of the mantra in his name at the puja place. But try, because if you do give arghya it will be excellent. And if nothing else, do his pujan whenever a Pushya nakshatra falls, especially a Ravi Pushya nakshatra, and try at least on a Sunday to give him arghya and water.

A listener says he cannot wake up at 5:30 in the morning and asks how he should then give arghya to Surya, and whether there is no other option. If you do not get up — if the situation is such that your work is of a kind in which you are not able to rise in the morning — then the matter becomes different, the speaker says. In that case, at the very least, do japa of the mantra in his name at the puja place. But make the effort, because if you do give arghya it will be most excellent. And if nothing else, then two things: whenever a Pushya Nakshatra falls, and especially whenever a Ravi Pushya nakshatra falls, do his pujan at that time; and on a Sunday at least make the effort that on that day you certainly give him arghya, water and the rest.

How is a Surya havan performed for bodily trouble?

For removing skin and physical problems, Surya upasana can absolutely be done in a simple way, and his havan can be done too, the speaker says — with this same Pauranik mantra. If ahutis are offered upon aak, that is madar wood, then men should offer with ghee and guggul, and women especially with havan samagri; from this a special grace of Surya Narayan is obtained.

For removing skin and physical problems, Surya upasana can absolutely be done in a simple way, the speaker says, and you can also do his Havan. You can do the havan with this same Pauranik mantra. If you offer ahutis upon Aak (Madar)A milky, latex-producing plant (Calotropis) — its white variety (Shwetark) is planted near a home for protection, though sourcing matters, since milky plants carry dual (positive or negative) properties depending on where they're taken from. — that is, upon madar wood — then men should do so with ghee and with guggul, and women especially should offer with havan samagri. If ahutis are offered in this way, a special grace of Surya Narayan is obtained.

Which days give extra fruit for Surya upasana?

On Surya Saptami, Achala Saptami and Surya Shashthi, the speaker says, doing Surya upasana on all these days in particular brings further fruit.

Surya Saptami, Achala Saptami, Surya Shashthi — on all these days in particular, the speaker says, doing Surya upasana brings a further fruit.

Are Nabhidarshana and Tilottama with Surya in Uttarayan and Dakshinayan?

A listener asks whether in Uttarayan the apsara Nabhidarshana Devi is with Surya Dev and in Dakshin, Tilottama Devi. The speaker says this subject has become fully tantrokta: as he explained, the Aditya of each month is different, there are twelve Adityas for twelve months, and each Aditya has his own mandal pujan. When we perform pujan with Twashta, then at that time your Nabhidarshana or Tilottama will not be there — his mandal pujan becomes entirely different. This becomes a whole subject of Martand Tantra, separately.

A listener asks whether, in Uttarayan, the apsara Nabhidarshana Devi is with Surya Dev, and in Dakshin, Tilottama Devi — does it happen so, Gurudev? Look, the speaker answers, this subject has now become fully tantrokta. As he told them about the Aditya of each month being different — there are twelve Adityas for twelve months, and every Aditya has his own mandal pujan with him. When we perform pujan with Twashta, then at that time your Nabhidarshana or Tilottama will not be there. Then his mandal pujan becomes entirely, wholly different. This becomes a full subject of Martand Tantra, separately.

May Pitru Gayatri be offered as ahuti at an Amavasya havan?

Asked whether, at an Amavasya havan for the mukti and shanti of all kinds of pitrs, one mala of ahuti can be given with the mantra "पितृ देवाय विद्महे जगत धारणाय धीमहि", the speaker answers: in his own view, if you have always been doing it, you can. But ordinarily, if you also wish to do something for the pitrs, he says not to do this independently but to give it with the first mantra of the Argala, in which the swadha shakti is available — through the swadha shakti their satisfaction will come about, no mistake will occur in it, and their gati will happen too. He states plainly: do not offer ahuti of the Pitru Gayatri independently.

Asked whether, if one performs an Amavasya havan for the mukti and shanti of all kinds of Pitr, one mala of ahuti can be offered with the mantra पितृ देवाय विद्महे जगत धारणाय धीमहि, the speaker answers that in his own view, if you have always been doing it, you can do it. But ordinarily, if you also want to do something for the pitrs, he says he would say not to do this independently and instead to give it with the first mantra of the Argala Stotra, in which the swadha shakti is available. If their satisfaction comes about through the swadha shakti, then no mistake will occur in it either, and their gati will also happen. Do not, independently, offer ahuti of the Pitru Gayatri, he says. (The transcript is damaged at this point: a cue opener is lost and the following sentence, timed at 37:50, is glued on to the end of the preceding one.)

What may be offered for the pitrs through Surya Narayan?

For the sake of the pitrs, and for the grace of Surya Narayan, the speaker says one may do it with the Pauranik japa kusum mantra — attainment will come from that too.

On behalf of the pitrs, for the sake of the grace of Surya Narayan, the speaker says, if you do it with the japa kusum mantra, which is the Pauranik mantra, then attainment will be obtained from that too.

Should Panchakshari be done with or without the pranav?

A listener says he has taken Bhagavan Shiva as his guru, does the puja of Hanuman ji, reads the chalisa, and does japa of the Panchakshari. If you are initiated, the speaker answers, do it with the pranav; if you are not initiated, then do japa of the Shiva mantra without attaching the pranav.

A listener says he has taken Bhagavan Shiva as guru, does the puja of Hanuman ji, reads the chalisa, and does japa of the Panchakshari. If you are initiated, the speaker answers, do it together with the Pranav. If you are not initiated, then do japa of the Shiva mantra without attaching the pranav.

Why are people frightened of worshipping Baglamukhi and Bhairav at home?

Even after so much has been said, the speaker observes, people in today's time are frightened of performing the pujan of Bhagavati Baglamukhi and Bhagavan Bhairav at home. But everyone ought to understand what the real matter is: their pujan has had importance from the Vedic era. At the least we should certainly do this much of their puja — and five minutes should certainly be given to Surya Narayan.

In today's time, he says, people are frightened of doing pujan at home of Bhagavati Baglamukhi and of Bhagavan Bhairava — even after so much has been spoken about Bhairav ji. But everyone should understand what the real subject is: from the Vedic era their pujan has had importance. At the least we should certainly do this much of their puja. Five minutes should certainly be given to Surya Narayan.

Can Surya upasana relieve physical problems arising in an anushthan?

Asked whether Surya upasana can bring relief where physical problems occur during a mantra anushthan, the speaker says yes, absolutely it can. Surya Narayan's father-in-law Bhagavan Vishwakarma, called Twashta in one form, exists for this very work; and by his grace Bhagavan Surya has the capability that whatever trouble is in this body — whether daivik, bhautik, from pret or pishach, from a brahmarakshas, a dosha of any kind at all — he cuts and clears it away through that.

A listener says that in his case physical problems arise in a mantra anushthan and asks whether relief can come from Surya upasana. Yes, absolutely it can, the speaker answers. Surya Narayan's father-in-law is Bhagavan Vishwakarma, who has been called Twashta — in one form he is Twashta. He exists for this very work. By his grace, Bhagavan Surya has such capability that whatever difficulty is in this body — whether it be daivik, bhautik, pret or pishach, Brahmarakshas, a dosha of any kind at all — through that he cuts and clears it away.

What are apsaras, really?

Asked which kriyas and sadhanas are done before apsara sadhana, the speaker first says that, in the way listeners are understanding it, apsara sadhana does not happen at all. Apsaras are the very form of Jagadamba, he says; their origin is held to be at the time of the samudra manthan, by the grace of Nar and Narayan. So how could such an apsara be made siddh in this manner by an ordinary man?

Asked which kriyas and which sadhanas are performed before Apsara Sadhana, the speaker says: let it be told to you that, in the way you are understanding apsara sadhana, in the first place it does not happen that way at all. Apsaras are the very form of Jagadamba — understand this subject, he says. The second thing is that their origin is held to have been at the time of the samudra manthan; the apsaras whose origin is held to be by the grace of Nar and Narayan — you should all know this. So how, then, could that apsara be made siddh in this manner by an ordinary human being? When Maharshi Vishwamitra had attained tapobal, it was on account of that tapobal that an apsara was obtained by him.

Can an ordinary person obtain the direct darshan of an apsara?

For an ordinary human being the attainment of their grace can happen, the speaker says. But as people think in today's time — that she will become manifest, will grant divine sight, or that we will realise her in some other form as mother, sister or wife — that is not so simple for an ordinary human being.

For an ordinary human being, the attainment of their grace can come about, the speaker says. But as people think in today's time — that she will become manifest before them, that she will grant divya drishti, or that we will realise her directly in some other form, as mother, sister or wife — this is not so easy for an ordinary human being. And what goes wrong here? He says he will one day make a separate video on this subject and tell it according to true experience — to his own people, some of those who know and recognise him, telling them from these experiences of his own life what calamities can come, what sufferings can come.

What is actually attainable in apsara sadhana?

Those who become successful in this sadhana purely for the attainment of grace, purely for darshan — darshan absolutely happens and grace is absolutely obtained, the speaker says. But apart from that there are a great many things whose niyams an ordinary human being cannot observe. So it is only and only for the attainment of grace.

Those who become successful in this sadhana, only for the attainment of kripa, only for darshan — darshan absolutely does happen, and grace is also obtained, the speaker says. But apart from that there are very many things which an ordinary human being cannot observe the niyams of. And therefore it is only and only for the attainment of grace. Look, he says, the apsara is a shakti — that is settled.

Why is apsara siddhi not easy to obtain?

The grace of the Mahashaktis is needed first, the speaker says, if you are seeking the siddhi of an apsara. He says he does not want to name all those people on whose account these things came before people so easily, as though it were very easy — it will happen in a single night, this will happen, that will happen. It is not that much halwa, he says. It is not two-minute Maggi.

The grace of the Mahashaktis is needed first of all, the speaker says, if you are seeking siddhi — if you insist that no, we must obtain the siddhi of an apsara itself. Now he does not want to take the names of all those people on whose account all these things came before people so readily, as though it were very easy: that it will happen in one night, that this will happen and that will happen. It is not that much halwa, he says. It is not two-minute Maggi. Eat the packet, heat the water, pour it in, it is ready, and the apsara appears before you and says, here, eat the Maggi, take the bhog of the Maggi — this will never happen. Difficulty will arise in your life.

What must be done first if apsara sadhana is to be attempted?

The very first thing, the speaker says, is that if apsara sadhana is to be done, first of all comes the upasana of Mahadev. Upasana of crores of mantras is performed, so that the mantra bala and tapobal are very great — so that when she is present, when we do shakti sadhana and she becomes manifest, there is enough energy within us to hold the energy produced by her, and we are capable of seeing her. There must be that much divinity within, and there must be vaicharik shuddhi.

The very first thing is this, the speaker says: if apsara sadhana is to be done, then first of all comes the upasana of Mahadev. Upasana of crores of mantras is performed, so that the mantra bala and tapobal are very great — so that when she is present, when we do shakti sadhana, the apsara being a shakti, and when she becomes manifest, there is such energy within us that we can hold the energy produced by her. So that we may be capable of seeing her. There should be that much divinity within oneself. There should be vaicharik shuddhi.

Why is Krodh Bhairav prescribed before yakshini or apsara sadhana?

The sadhana of Krodh Bhairav becomes extremely necessary in this, the speaker says: it is said that Krodh Bhairav should be done, and that without doing Krodh Bhairav the sadhana of a yakshini or apsara should not be done, because Krodh Bhairav controls her. But then who will control Krodh Bhairav? For his control too we must take refuge in Bhagavati — then Bhagavati's sadhana is needed. These are links joined to one another.

Now here is one more thing for all who are listening, the speaker says. The sadhana of Krodh Bhairava becomes extremely necessary in this; it is said that Krodh Bhairav should be done. Without doing Krodh Bhairav, the sadhana of a yakshini or an apsara should not be done. What is the reason? Krodh Bhairav controls her. But who will control Krodh Bhairav? When you perform the sadhana of Krodh Bhairav — and now even this sadhana is being distributed like halwa, whose very name nobody ever knew — then if we do this kind of sadhana, how will he be controlled? For his control too we must then take refuge in Bhagavati; then Bhagavati's sadhana is needed. So in a way these are links joined to one another.

In what order should Mahadev, Parvati and the kula's own apsara be worshipped?

If you do the sadhana of Mahadev and Bhagavati Parvati, the speaker says, you will not need to do anything else at all. Even so, if you wish to go step by step, then the yakshini of the kula in which you are initiated, the apsara of that same kula who is proper for you, will be given to you by the guru. If you have done, say, 12 lakh japa of Bhagavati's mantra, then a sawa lakh of whichever Bhairav or Mahadev form belongs to her will be done, and after that the japa of the Bhairav of that kula — though Bhairav's japa and Ganpati's japa come first in any case.

First of all, do the sadhana of Mahadev and Bhagavati Parvati, both, and you will not need to do all the remaining things at all, the speaker says. Even so, if you wish to go in sequence, then the yakshini of whichever kula you are initiated in, the apsara of that same kula who will be proper for you, will be granted to you by the guru — that too within shakti sadhana. First Mahadev is done, then Bhagavati. If Bhagavati has been done predominantly, then let us take it that if you have done 12 lakh japa of Bhagavati's mantra, then a sawa lakh of whichever Bhairav or Mahadev form belongs to her will be done. After that the japa of the Bhairav of that kula will take place. Although Bhairav's japa happens first, and Ganpati's happens first, he adds.

How long is the preparatory upasana before apsara sadhana?

All these beginning things will be done, and you will be made to do upasana for at least three years, five years, the speaker says. When you have completed all of that, then you will have the capability within you that nothing goes wrong with you. Your buddhi too will have become stable by then; you will not be dislodged, that is, you will not fall from your station, and vaicharik shuddhi alone will remain within you.

All this beginning work will be done, and you will be made to do upasana for at least three years, five years, the speaker says. When you complete that whole thing, then you will have the capability within you that nothing goes wrong with you. Your buddhi too will by then have become stable. You will not be dislodged, that is, you will not fall from your station. Vaicharik shuddhi alone will remain within you. As for the people talking about apsaras now, he says, you can know well enough what their thinking is, and with what thought they wish to obtain an apsara. It is these concocted tantra tales, made up by some people, on account of which it seems easy to you.

Why does apsara siddhi come easily to some people?

It is also true that attainment happens, the speaker says — but how? The reason behind it is that in the guru parampara in which such a person is initiated, some sadhak of that parampara, who would have been their guru, had at some time realised her directly and by his word established it in his own kula, in the kula of his guru parampara, saying that upon whoever becomes a disciple in my guru parampara you will bestow grace. In such a case she can grant the siddhi by mere glance, by shaktipat. For them it became easy — but for you it will never be easy, because you are doing her sadhana independently.

Now he tells one more thing, the speaker says: how does someone obtain this siddhi very easily, in truth? It is also true that attainment happens — but how does it happen? The reason behind it is that in whichever Guru Parampara that person is initiated, some sadhak of that parampara, who would have been their guru, would at some time have realised her directly, and by his word would have established it in his own kula, in the kula of his guru parampara: that upon whoever becomes a disciple in my guru parampara, you will bestow grace. In such a case she can grant that siddhi even by mere glance, by shaktipat. For them it became easy — but for you it will never be easy, because you are doing her sadhana independently.

What full vidhan does apsara sadhana proper require?

Besides this, the speaker says, the upasana of Bhagavan Indra and the upasana of Bhagavati Sachi becomes necessary — not just upasana but their complete sadhana and puja with full vidhi vidhan, digpal pujan, the balidan of the digpals; only after all these things are done does that sadhana come at the end.

Besides this, the speaker says, the upasana of Bhagavan Indra and the upasana of Bhagavati Sachi becomes necessary. Not merely upasana — their entire sadhana and puja with full vidhi vidhan, digpal pujan, the balidan of the digpals. Only after all these things are performed does that sadhana come, at the very end.

Can apsara sadhana be done with a sankalpa for a good wife?

Ordinarily, the speaker says, if in your life you wish — as in the questioner's case — that you obtain a beautiful and good dharmapatni, a life-companion who walks the path of sadhana, then if you take a sankalpa and do apsara sadhana for that, that grace will come. For the attainment of grace there is absolutely no difficulty.

Yes, ordinarily, the speaker says, if in your life you wish — as in the questioner's case — that you should obtain a beautiful dharmapatni, a good one who walks upon the path of sadhana, a life-companion. If for that purpose you take a sankalpa and perform apsara sadhana, then that grace will come about. For the attainment of grace there is absolutely no difficulty.

The tantra-tale expectation of an apsara appearing as a young woman and giving wealth is refused.

But if you are thinking of direct manifestation and all these things — that she will come in the form of a young woman, and what you have read in the tantra tales, that she will give wealth, will give property, will be a lover — then your thinking has already been corrupted by hearing those concocted tales, the speaker says. There is not that much capability. As for speaking, we too could say anything, since which of you is coming to see — but we cannot mislead you, he says; forgive us.

But if you are thinking of direct manifestation and all these things — that she will come in the form of a young woman, and what you have read in the tantra kathas, that she will give wealth, will give property, will be a lover — then your thoughts have already been made impure by listening to those concocted tales, the speaker says. There is not that much capability. As for speaking, we too would say anything at all, since which of you is coming to look? But we cannot mislead people, he says. Forgive us.

A puja vidhan already done before may be taken up again, or Bhagavati Shakambhari worshipped.

Asked whether there is some puja vidhan for the coming Navratra from 30 December, the speaker says yes — the puja vidhan you have already done before, which he keeps repeating, you can begin again at that time. Any sadhana of Bhagavati or any sadhana of Bhairav ji that you have done in the past you can do in the Shakambhari Navratra, or you can also do the upasana of Bhagavati Shakambhari. For Makar Sankranti he will give something separately, and will state a single-day sadhana.

Asked whether there is any puja vidhan for the Navratra coming from 30 December, the speaker says yes: the puja vidhan you have already performed before, which he keeps saying again and again, you can begin at that time. Any sadhana of Bhagavati, any sadhana of Bhairav ji that you have performed in the past — that you can do in the Shakambhari Navratri, or you can also do the upasana of Bhagavati Shakambhari. For Makar Sankranti, he says, we will give it separately and will tell it separately. We will state a single-day sadhana.

Which mantra should be used for the smaran of Bhairav ji?

Asked which mantra to use for the smaran of Bhairav ji, the speaker says to use his dhyan mantra — "करकलित कपाल कुंडली दंड पानी" — and to remember him with that. Or use this mantra: "करतु समय सपरिया विघ्न विच्छेद हेतुर्जयति बटुकनाथ सिद्ध साधका नाम". Or utter his ten names: "कपाली कुंडली भैरवो भी मलोचना".

Asked which mantra to use for the smaran of Bhairava ji, the speaker says: do it with his dhyan mantra — करकलित कपाल कुंडली दंड पानी — remember him with this mantra. Or do it with this mantra: करतु समय सपरिया विघ्न विच्छेद हेतुर्जयति बटुकनाथ सिद्ध साधका नाम. Or utter his ten names, the mantra कपाली कुंडली भैरवो भी मलोचना. (These verses are reproduced exactly as the transcript renders them; the transcription is evidently imperfect in places.)

Can the Kali Hriday Stotra be recited?

The Kali Hriday Stotra can be done, the speaker says, but he warns: hriday means the nearest, so if you do it the experience will be somewhat vikat and vikaral. If you do Shiva pujan well, then do it while doing Shiva pujan — perhaps the questioner does perform Shiva pujan and his abhishek well. Do it in the Kali temple itself, if you wish to do it, and do not do it in greater quantity.

Asked whether the Kali Hriday Stotra can then be recited, the speaker says: look, let it be told — hriday means the nearest. If you do it, the experience will be somewhat vikat and vikaral. You can indeed do it. But if you do Shiva pujan well, then do it while performing Shiva pujan. Perhaps you do perform Shiva pujan and his abhishek well. Do it in the Kali temple itself, if you wish to do it — and do not do it in greater quantity.

Can the Durga Vajra Panjar be done in daily sadhana?

Asked whether the Vajra Panjar of Durga can be done in daily sadhana, the speaker answers that it can be done.

Asked whether the Vajra Panjar of Durga can be performed in daily sadhana, the speaker answers that you can do it.

Is arghya ever given to the setting sun?

Asked whether arghya is also given to the setting sun, the speaker says it is at the Shashthi of the Shukla Paksha of Kartik month — the Surya Shashthi we celebrate, in which the pujan of Bhagavati Chhathi Maiya takes place — that alone is arghya given to the setting sun.

Asked whether arghya is also given to the setting sun, the speaker answers: at the Shashthi of the Shukla Paksha of Kartik month, which we celebrate as Surya Shashthi, in which the pujan of Bhagavati Chhathi Maiya takes place. In that alone, and only in that, is arghya given to the setting sun.

Is it acceptable to read a paath from a mobile phone?

Asked about reading from a mobile, the speaker says there is no difficulty as such: if you are reading for information, that is a different matter — but if you want the attainment of fruit, then for that it should be read with vidhi vidhan.

Asked about reading from a mobile phone, the speaker says there is no such difficulty. If you are reading for the sake of information, that is a different matter. But if you want the attainment of fruit, then for that it ought to be read with vidhi vidhan.

What does it mean to hear the Kali Gayatri mantra in a dream?

A listener says he hears the Kali Gayatri mantra half-heard in dreams, echoing in the ears in a very loud voice, and asks why. Your sadhanas are bearing fruit, the speaker answers; Bhagavati's grace is coming. If Bhagavati's Gayatri mantra is being heard by you, and that of Bhagavati Kali, then it is good — it is a very auspicious sign.

A listener says that the Kali Gayatri mantra is heard by him half-completed in a dream, that it echoes in his ears in a very loud voice, and asks why this is so. Your sadhanas are bearing fruit, the speaker answers; Bhagavati's grace is coming upon you. If Bhagavati's Gayatri mantra is being heard by you, and that of Bhagavati Kali at that, then it is good. It is a very auspicious sign.

Should the daily arghya be given sitting or standing?

Asked whether in the nitya puja arghya to Surya Narayan should be given seated, the speaker says no — it should be given standing, and by going in front of Surya Narayan.

Asked whether in the nitya puja the arghya to Surya Narayan should be given sitting down, the speaker answers: no, it should be given standing up, and by going before Surya Narayan.

Is the Surya havan done in the morning or the evening?

Asked whether the havan of Surya Dev is done in the morning or can also be done in the evening, the speaker says to do it in the morning only — whatever Surya pujan is to be done is in the early morning, absolutely.

Asked whether the Havan of Surya Dev is performed in the morning or whether it can be done in the evening too, the speaker answers: do it in the morning only. Whatever Surya pujan is to be done is done in the early morning, absolutely.

On which tithi should havan not be done at night?

The speaker repeats what he says again and again: if you are doing a weekly havan — as, for instance, you do havan every Tuesday — then there is no need to look at any tithi or nakshatra; do it. If you do a monthly havan, as on Amavasya, Purnima or Ashtami, whichever single tithi is your rule for doing it, there too you need not look at anything. But if you are doing it on some other tithi, then you should look at the agnivas and so on before doing it. In a parva kaal there is no need to look at the agnivas.

Asked on which tithi havan should not be done at night, the speaker says: look, if we say this again and again — if you are doing a weekly Havan, as for instance you do havan every Tuesday, then there is no need to look at any tithi or nakshatra; do it. If you do a monthly havan, as on Amavasya, Purnima or Ashtami, whichever one tithi is your rule for doing it, then in that too you need not look at anything. But if you are doing it on some other tithi and so on, then you should look at the agnivas and the rest before doing it. In a parva kaal there is no need to look at the agnivas.

What should be done for the mukti and shanti of a deceased relative?

Asked what to do for the mukti and shanti of an aunt who has passed away, the speaker says the vidhi vidhan that exists in the tradition should certainly be done, and along with that one should have the recitation of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita performed. And if one is not able to have it performed, then oneself recite the seventh adhyaya for the whole period, as long as the sutak-patak is in force.

A listener says his aunt has passed away and asks what he should do for her mukti and shanti. Whatever vidhi vidhan there is in the tradition should certainly be done, the speaker answers, and along with that you should have the recitation of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita performed. And if you are not able to have it performed, then recite the seventh adhyaya yourself for the whole time, for as long as the Sutak-patak is in force.

Is it proper for a friend to go and do apsara sadhana to make it siddh?

Asked about an acquaintance who has completed a mantra sadhana and is now planning to go to do apsara sadhana in order to make it siddh, and whether it is proper to do apsara sadhana, the speaker says he has just discussed this subject earlier — the person may go, having taken a proper decision.

A listener says an acquaintance of his has completed a mantra sadhana and is now planning to go and do apsara sadhana in order to make it siddh, and asks whether performing apsara sadhana is proper. On this subject we have just now discussed it, the speaker answers. Having taken a proper decision, he may go.

The Chakshushi Vidya will be given once the purpose for wanting it is stated.

Asked to give the vidhan of the Chakshushi Vidya and of the twelve-name stotra of Bhagavati Saraswati for Basant Panchami, the speaker says the Chakshushi Vidya will be given, but asks that the purpose be stated once — according to that purpose he will then tell it.

A listener asks that the vidhan of the Chakshushi Vidya, and of the twelve-name stotra of Bhagavati Saraswati for Basant Panchami, be given without fail. All right, the speaker says: as for the Chakshushi Vidya, that will be given. But tell me once what the purpose will be, and then, according to that purpose, we will tell it within that.

What should a sadhak pray to Bhagavati for in the matter of marriage?

Those who are sadhaks should certainly pray to Bhagavati that they obtain a good dharmapatni who will assist them in sadhana and puja, the speaker says. Otherwise, however much sadhana and aradhana you do, if you obtain one who only sleeps, then you will forget the incense and the dhoop and the lamp — she will have her own puja performed and her own aarti taken, and difficulty will arise.

Otherwise, the speaker says, however much sadhana and aradhana you do — if you get one who only sleeps, then forget the agarbatti and the dhoop and the deep; then she will have her own puja performed and her own aarti taken, and then there will be difficulty. Therefore those who are sadhaks should certainly pray to Bhagavati that they obtain a good dharmapatni, one who will assist you in sadhana and puja.

Why does a disciple experience the guru in dreams?

To a listener who writes that he experiences the speaker in dreams several times, the speaker answers that it is by the effect of the guru sadhana he has performed, and by the grace of Bhagavan Datt, that the experience is coming — what capability, he says, do we have?

A listener writes that he experiences the speaker in his dreams several times. It is by the effect of the guru sadhana that you have performed, and by the grace of Bhagavan Dattatreya, that this experience is coming to you, the speaker answers. What capability, after all, do we have?

What should one carry when visiting Kalka Ji?

Asked what to take when going to Kalka Ji on 24 December, the speaker says one should take a rose flower if it can be got and a garland of gudhal flowers for Bhagavati's shringar pujan, the chunri and the garment of shringar, and whatever bhog is offered there. And if 24 December falls on a Saturday, make a nimbu mala with your own hands — of 27 lemons, or 54, or 108, as many as possible — putting marigold flowers in between so it looks more beautiful and attractive. The pujari will put it on, and as long as it remains around Bhagavati's neck a special grace will come to you.

Asked what to take along when going to Kalka Ji again on 24 December — Kalka Ji, that is, in Delhi — the speaker says that for Bhagavati's shringar pujan one should take a rose flower if it can be got, and a garland of gudhal flowers. One should take the chunri, the garment of shringar, and whatever bhog is offered there. And if 24 December falls on a Saturday, then if you can make a nimbu mala with your own hands and carry it, make one — of 27 lemons, or 54, or 108, as much as is possible. In the nimbu mala, rather than putting only lemons, marigold flowers are also put in between to make the garland beautiful, and it will look more attractive. The pujari will also put it on, and for as long as it remains around Bhagavati's neck, a special grace will also be obtained by you all the better. So take all of that.

Does reciting the Bhagavat and the Shiv Mahapuran remove suffering?

Asked whether sufferings are cut by reciting the Shrimad Bhagavat Katha and the Shri Shiv Mahapuran, the speaker says they absolutely are cut. See the phalashruti written in the Puranas, he says — infinite times punya is obtained; it should simply be done in the proper way, with vidhi vidhan. But "proper way" does not mean you should give up water: after bathing in the morning, sitting on an asan before Bhagavan, if you recite even one adhyaya daily, then you will have no particular need of anything else.

Asked whether sufferings are cut by reciting the Shrimad Bhagavat Katha and the Shri Shiv Puran, the speaker says: absolutely they are cut. See the phalashruti written in the Puranas — infinite times punya is obtained. It should simply be done in the proper way, with vidhi vidhan; that is the first thing. But the proper way does not mean that you should give up water. In the morning, after bathing and the rest, sitting upon an asan before Bhagavan, if you recite even a single adhyaya daily, then you will not have any particular need of anything else.

How is a parayan of the Shiv Mahapuran planned?

A parayan of it is done, the speaker says — that we will complete the whole recitation of the Shiv Mahapuran in so many days, or that in our whole life we will do it twelve times or eleven times; it should be done gradually in that way, seeing how much time it takes you. There are samhitas: see how many days you will take to complete one samhita, and do it accordingly. And if you wish to recite only one of the samhitas, do the Vayu Samhita, or do the Rudra Samhita — that we will do the anushthan of the Rudra Samhita again and again. It is not necessary that you recite the whole Purana.

Its parayan is performed, the speaker says: that we will complete the whole recitation of the Shiv Mahapuran within so many days. Or that in our whole life we will do it twelve times, eleven times — in this way it should be done gradually, and in it you should see how much time it is taking you. There are samhitas: how many days you will take to complete one samhita, do it according to that. And among all the samhitas there are, if you wish to recite only one of them: do the Vayu Samhita, do the Rudra Samhita — that we will do the anushthan of the Rudra Samhita itself again and again. That too you can do. It is not necessary that you recite the whole Purana.

Sheshnag and the Panchshool of Baidyanath Dham are deferred to separate videos.

Asked to speak about Bhagavan Sheshnag and his shakti, the speaker says he will tell it about Sheshnag separately. Asked where he is from, he says Baba Baidyanath Dham, Deoghar. On the Panchshool he says he had earlier put the whole thing on Facebook and written it, but had to delete it because of copy-paste and quarrelling; he will make a video again and tell what the rahasya of the Panchshool standing atop the Baba Baidyanath temple is, and why there is a Panchshool at Baidyanath Dham and not a Trishul.

Asked to speak about Bhagavan Sheshnag and about his shakti, the speaker says: all right, about Sheshnag separately. He will tell about Bhagavan Sheshnag. Asked which city he is from, he says Baba Vaidyanatha Dham, Deoghar. On the Panchshool, he says he had earlier put the whole thing on Facebook and written it, but had to delete it on account of copy-paste and a quarrel. He will make a video again and will certainly tell the subject of the Panchshool — what the rahasya is of the Panchshool present atop the Baba Baidyanath temple, and why there is a Panchshool at Baidyanath Dham and not a Trishul.