Abhirami Bhattar was a simple but fervent devotee of mother Abhirami, the goddess of Thirukaddaiyavur, TamilNadu (Markandeya's Lord). He saw Goddess in everything and everybody, much like Prahalada and was considered a madman by the priests of the temple. Once when the King Serfoji visited the temple, the priests wanted to get Abhirami Battar into trouble. They suggested that the king ask him what the thithi of the day was. Abhirami Battar who had the habit of always being connected with the Goddess, looked at Devi's face, and saw full moon there and said that it was Pournami (Full moon), when it was actually Amavasya (New moon) day! He later realized his mistake and either by the order of the king or as a self-challenge to his own faith, an elaborate punishment was arranged. A huge pyre was lit and Abhirami Bhattar was hung over it on a plank held by 100 ropes. Abhirami Bhattar then expressed himself to his Divine Universal Mother through verses of adoration, anger and gratitude...through a 100 verses stotra, which is Abhirami Andadhi (last word in each verse is the first word in the next verse). After each verse was completed, a rope was cut. The compassionate mother then appeared at the end of 79th verse and threw her diamond earring which appeared like Full moon in the night sky, thereby proving the words of her true devotee will always become true. This is one of the many stories that prove to us those who surrendered to our Divine Mother completely will be taken care of by Her.

Much unlike Abhirami Bhattar we too are constantly trying to connect with our inner Devi to think, speak and act the way that corresponds to Her Divine will. We too misinterpret our roles and duties and make mistakes. Let us learn, understand and reflect on these powerful verses which are filled with deepest expressions from a being in mortal peril with hope that we too can surrender everything that happens as Her perfect Divine plan and begin to see Her in everything with revitalized faith and energy!

Dara Lakshmi