Does Bhagavati refer to our Thayar or Parvathi Devi? This is related to the goddess Bhagavati in Kerala.
Vidwan’s reply:
The term Bhagavati certainly does refer to Thayar. Svami Bhasyakarar says ‘Bhagavati shrIyaM devI’ right at the beginning of Gadyam.
Bhagavati means one who possesses six auspicious qualities; namely – Gyana, Bala, Aishwarya, Veerya, Shakti, and Tejas. Even Emperuman is called Bhagavan because of the same, as one possessing six auspicious qualities; Bhagavan’s consort is Bhagavati, meaning one who possesses the same six traits.
The Bhagavati referred to in Kerala refers to Parvati Devi. They call her so out of affection. It is similar to how we out of affection name ourselves with Emperuman’s names. The term Ishvaran will only mean Emperuman, Lord of all universes. But people believe Ishvaran refers to Shivan. Likewise, though Bhagavati means Thayar only, Parvati Devi is commonly called Bhagavati.
Must sumangali prarthanai be performed before the performance of upanayanam? We have not done this so far. Last year mother-in-law attained moksham as a sumangali, hence this doubt. If yes, what procedures must be followed by Srivaishnava households?
Vidwan’s reply:
Sumangali prarthanai has not been prescribed as a part of Vedic rituals; nor has it been prescribed as part of ceremonies; if it is a practice of the respective household, it can be followed. Not performing does not accrue any malefic effects. If it is not being followed so far, no need to start any such new practices.
What are the prescribed austerities that are to be followed strictly before and after bharanyasam? As an example, what are the rules about food, travel, etc?
Vidwan’s reply:
Before bharanyasam, one must have the yearning and prayers for a successful fructification in terms of being associated with a preceptor. These are the thoughts one must hold on to before bharanyasam.
After bharanyasam, one must follow many prescribed matters; especially association with demigods and bhagavata apacharam are to be strictly avoided at all costs. The reason that we adhere to these standards (those that need to be embraced and those that must be avoided) are for the pleasure of Emperuman. Emperuman is pleased if we follow the ordains of the scriptures; so one must avoid food that is unworthy of consumption and one must avoid eating food from outside. One can worship Divya Desam-s, their favorite sthalam-s, and ancient temples but avoid visiting temples of demigods.
Can we touch the stove and cook during a vriddhi theetu (birth-related asaucam)?
Vidwan’s reply:
If there is a necessity one can cook and partake food irrespective of a vriddhi theetu or any theetu; but the vessels that are used during cooking must be cleansed appropriately and can be used after the period of asaucam.
Can a daughter-in-law take an oil bath before the first death anniversary of a father-in-law?
Vidwan’s reply:
In General, the performer of the last rites and the wife that is the son and daughter-in-law do not take an oil bath until the first-year completion of the in-law’s demise.
