The aspect of Pratyangira Devi has been somewhat hidden throughout history. According to the Markandeya and Shiva Puranas, after Lord Narasimha vanquished Hiranyakashipu, he became uncontrollably fierce. To calm him, Lord Shiva assumed the form of Sharabhaeswara, a bird-animal. In response, Narasimha created the Gandaberunda, a two-headed bird, to challenge Sharabhaeswara.
In a further escalation, Shiva, from his third eye, manifested Pratyangira Devi. Alternatively, she was revealed to two rishis during meditation through a sacred moola mantra. The term “Prati” means reverse, and “Angiras” means attacking. Thus, Devi Pratyangira is revered as the one who reverses any attacks.
Divine Appearance and Attributes:
Pratyangira Devi is described as a goddess with a dark complexion, a lion’s face, reddened eyes, disheveled hair, and a protruding tongue. She rides a lion and wears a garland of human skulls. In her four hands, she holds a trident, a serpent in the form of a noose, a hand drum, and a skull. Despite her fearsome appearance, she is a loving mother, always ready to assist her devotees.
Spiritual and Practical Benefits:
Worshipping Maha Pratyangira Devi is believed to address and resolve a myriad of issues:
- Eliminating Enemies: She is invoked to overcome internal and external adversaries causing significant harm.
- Reversing Negative Effects: She is known to reverse powerful negative influences and obstacles.
- Protection: She provides additional protection during major crises.
- Healing Chronic Diseases: Her grace can assist in responding better to treatments and diagnosing ailments.
- Financial Relief: As Siddha Lakshmi, she aids in alleviating financial problems and showering abundance.
- Mental Clarity: She helps in eliminating negative thoughts and supporting spiritual practices, especially in Srividya Aradhana for removing obstacles in worshipping Sri Lalitha Maha Tripura Sundari.
Historical Reverence:
In the Ramayana, Pratyangira Devi is referred to as Nikumbala, worshipped by Indrajeet for victory over Lord Sri Rama. However, Lord Hanuman destroyed this worship because it was believed that Indrajeet would win the war if the Homam was completed, showcasing the immense power of Pratyangira Devi’s Homam.
When to Worship:
Pratyangira Devi is predominantly worshipped on Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays, and on Ashtami and Amavasya. Her worship on these auspicious days brings powerful blessings and resolution to various life challenges.
Join us at Krutya Pratyangira Tantric Peetam to experience the divine grace and transformative power of Sri Pratyangira Devi. Embrace her worship to overcome obstacles, seek protection, and invite prosperity and healing into your life.