Mantralaya-2016

(The Divine Meeting of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sri Raghavendra Swamy)

Date : Nov 13, 2024

Dear Devotees : Namaskara.

| Sri MannMoolaRamastu Mannmathe Moolamahasamsthhaana Mantralaya Sri Rayaramathe||
|| OM SRI RAGHAVENDRAAYA NAMAHA||
SATYAMEVA JAYATI NA ANRUTA

Background

The Divine Meeting of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sri Raghavendra Swamy is described in Mantralaya (2016).

Meaning

After the collapse of the Vijayanagara Empire, the Bahmani Sultanate rose to power in the Deccan, while the Mughal Empire expanded from Delhi. It was a turbulent period, marked by a grave threat to the existence of Hindu society. Hindus faced severe oppression, with rampant looting, violence, and destruction. Many temples, symbols of rich heritage and culture, were desecrated or destroyed, and an attempt was made to erase the legacy of India’s ancient traditions.

In this difficult time, when survival itself became a struggle, it was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who rose as a beacon of hope for Bharata. With his unwavering courage and dedication to dharma, he defended the land, its people, and its heritage. Shivaji’s mission was not just about establishing a kingdom, but about preserving the spiritual and cultural identity of India. His leadership and vision inspired countless others, uniting them in a movement to protect the country and its traditions.

Shahaji, the father of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, sought out Naropant Hanumate, a devout Madhwa follower and a highly respected, honest statesman of the time, to be part of Shivaji’s administration. Naropant Hanumate was a pivotal military commander and loyal minister under Shivaji Maharaj, renowned for his sharp strategic mind and steadfast dedication. His contributions were instrumental in shaping Shivaji’s vision and advancing many of his military campaigns and administrative reforms.

Naropant’s skills in both diplomacy and warfare, along with his deep commitment to dharma, made him an invaluable ally. His influence extended beyond the battlefield, as he was actively involved in fortifying the kingdom’s infrastructure, establishing efficient revenue systems, and ensuring a disciplined, capable military force. His integrity and wisdom were not only an asset to Shivaji but also inspired loyalty among the Maratha forces, making him one of the most trusted figures in Shivaji’s inner circle.

Despite his significant contributions, Naropant Hanumate maintained a humble and unassuming profile, focusing solely on his duty and the service of the kingdom rather than on personal recognition. His humility and commitment to dharma exemplified the spirit of a true servant-leader. Shivaji Maharaj, recognizing Naropant's unwavering loyalty and remarkable expertise, held him in high esteem and counted him among his most trusted advisors.

During this period, Sri Raghavendra Swamy chose to observe Chaturmaasya at the revered Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur. Every day, he performed the pooja of Goddess Mahalakshmi with deep devotion, and in response to his sincere worship, Mahalakshmi granted him her invisible darshana, blessing him with her divine presence.After each pooja, Sri Raghavendra Swamy would immerse himself in Vedic discussions and spiritual teachings, sharing profound insights with those gathered around him. Devotees came in large numbers, seeking his guidance and blessings for the challenges they faced, and he patiently listened to each of them, offering solace and divine blessings.Among his regular visitors was Naropant Hanumate, the dedicated minister of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Naropant came daily to seek Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s blessings, finding in Rayaru not only spiritual wisdom but also strength and reassurance amid the challenges of the time. Sri Rayaru presence at Kolhapur became a source of inspiration and spiritual upliftment for all, reinforcing the strength of dharma in a period marked by hardship and uncertainty.

Once, during Shivaji Maharaj's visit to Kolhapur, Naropant Hanumate deeply wished for Shivaji to receive the blessings of Sri Raghavendra Swamy. Sensing the significance of such a meeting, Naropant approached Sri Raghavendra Swamy with this desire, requesting that he visit the palace to bless Shivaji.With a gentle smile, Sri Raghavendra Swamy listened to Naropant’s earnest request. In his serene manner, Rayaru replied, "If Mahalakshmi Devi has willed this meeting, then I shall indeed come." His words reflected his deep faith in divine will, acknowledging that every significant encounter was orchestrated by the grace of the Goddess.

Rayaru’s response filled Naropant with joy and anticipation, knowing that if it were in Mahalakshmi’s plan, a meeting between Shivaji and Sri Raghavendra Swamy could truly be transformative, bringing blessings to Shivaji's mission and to the land itself.

At the palace entrance, Shivaji Maharaj, along with his mother Jijabai, his wife, his son Sambhaji, and other close relatives, eagerly awaited the arrival of Guru Sri Raghavendra Swamy. The anticipation was palpable as they looked forward to receiving the blessings of the revered saint. As soon as Sri Raghavendra Swamy arrived, Shivaji caught sight of Rayaru, and an indescribable feeling of divine energy enveloped him. Shivaji was captivated by the radiant presence of Sri Raghavendra Swamy, feeling as though his beloved Goddess Durga herself was accompanying the saint Sri Raghavendra Swamy. With deep reverence, Shivaji and his family welcomed Sri Raghavendra Swamy and humbly invited him to sit upon an elaborately decorated seat prepared with great devotion.

Shivaji then performed the sacred Pada Pooja (ceremonial washing of the Guru's feet) for Sri Raghavendra Swamy, offering precious gifts and wealth as symbols of his utmost respect and gratitude. With devotion, Shivaji sprinkled the water used in the Pada Pooja on everyone present, blessing them all with the sanctified water. Sri Raghavendra Swamy, holding Mantrakshate (sacred rice grains empowered with divine blessings), prayed to Sri Moola Rama and distributed the Mantrakshate to Shivaji, his family, and all those gathered.

Moved by the divine grace of the encounter, Shivaji humbly requested a private audience with Sri Rayaru.

Shivaji, with heartfelt reverence and a voice softened with humility, said, “Guru Raya, with your divine presence, both I and this land are sanctified. I seek your blessings to fulfill my mission: to protect this land, preserve dharma, and uphold justice.” Shivaji looked to Sri Raghavendra Swamy with deep, unwavering eyes, knowing that the Guru’s guidance and blessings were what he needed to lead his people with strength and righteousness.

With a radiant and compassionate smile, Sri Raghavendra Swamy addressed Shivaji, “O noble warrior, Shivaji, I am well aware of you and the noble mission you are carrying forward. Today, I am honored to meet you. This land of Bharata is the birthplace of Sanatana Dharma, a treasure of wisdom, culture, heritage, and profound spiritual knowledge. Yet today, these very roots face threats from forces that seek to destroy what we hold sacred. This is not only due to external aggression but also because our own people have not upheld dharma, knowledge, and culture with the devotion they deserve, leading us to the trials we see today."

Rayaru continued with divine authority, "My Lord Sri Krishna declared, ‘Yada yada hi dharmasya glanir bhavati Bharata, abhyutthanam adharmasya tadatmanam srijamyaham!’ meaning, ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma rises, I manifest myself.’ There are times, however, when Sri Vishnu does not take an avatar himself but sends his devotees to restore righteousness. He empowers them with his strength to accomplish his divine purpose. You, Shivaji, are one such chosen soul, blessed by Sri Krishna himself with the strength and wisdom to protect Sanatana Dharma and its followers."

Sri Raghavendra Swamy paused, his gaze filled with grace and encouragement. “Sri Krishna has placed a divine purpose upon you to safeguard the innocent and uphold righteousness. I am pleased to see that you have embraced this sacred duty. Remember always, Yato Dharma Tato Jayaha—wherever there is dharma, victory is assured. And as it is said, Dharma yeva hato hanti dharmo rakshati rakshitaha—those who seek to destroy dharma are ultimately destroyed by it, while those who protect dharma are protected by it."

"My blessings are with you, Shivaji,” Rayaru concluded, “and I am certain you will emerge victorious. You shall be remembered throughout history for your unwavering commitment to dharma. Without fear, carry on your mission. Sri Hari is always with you.”

The words of Sri Raghavendra Swamy filled Shivaji’s heart with immense courage and faith, knowing that he was divinely chosen to fulfill his destiny.

With deep reverence, Shivaji bowed his head and humbly requested Sri Raghavendra Swamy to place his hand upon him as a blessing. Sri Rayaru gently placed his hand on Shivaji's head, closed his eyes, and offered a heartfelt prayer to Sri Hari. Then, in a voice filled with divine assurance, he said, "You are here for a purpose, Shivaji, and you shall surely succeed."

As Rayaru’s hand rested on his head, Shivaji felt a surge of divine energy coursing through him, filling his soul with unwavering strength and conviction. Overwhelmed by the blessing, Shivaji drew his sword, gifted by Goddess Durga, and, bending on one knee before Rayaru, declared with solemn resolve, “I, Shivaji, dedicate my life to the mission of protecting this sacred land of Bharata and upholding Sanatana Dharma. I vow to you, Sri Rayaru, that with your blessings, I will pour my heart and soul into this sacred duty.”

With a loving and protective gaze, like that of a mother watching over her child, Rayaru held Shivaji by the shoulders, lifting him to his feet. Looking deep into his eyes with kindness and faith, Rayaru said, “I know, Shivaji—you were born for this mission.”

The bond of guru and disciple, of protector and warrior, was sealed with those words, as Shivaji left that day with a renewed spirit, knowing that Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s blessings and the divine will of Sri Hari were with him.

As Sri Raghavendra Swamy prepared to depart, Shivaji offered a grand send-off, standing with folded hands and gazing at his beloved Guru until he disappeared from sight. Moved to tears, Shivaji felt a renewed, vibrant energy within him, empowered by Rayaru’s blessings. With a deep sense of purpose, he returned to his palace, his resolve stronger than ever.

After completing his Chaturmaasya at Kolhapur, Sri Raghavendra Swamy journeyed towards Nasik, bestowing blessings upon Naropant and all those who had sought his guidance. The blessings and wisdom Rayaru imparted to Shivaji became a powerful force, fueling his victories in numerous crucial battles. With renewed strength, Shivaji went on to defend his people and uphold Sanatana Dharma, prevailing even against the most formidable opponents.

We are truly blessed to be born in this sacred land, Bharata, where the divine paths of two extraordinary beings—Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the fearless warrior, and Sri Raghavendra Swamy, the divine saint—once intersected. Their meeting was not just an encounter between a king and a saint, but a confluence of spiritual power and earthly courage, a union of dharma and valor. In this land, where righteousness once faced threats from forces of darkness, the legacy of Shivaji’s unwavering commitment to protect dharma, and Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s divine blessings, became a beacon of hope for generations to come.

Indeed, to be born in this sacred land, where such divine souls walked and where their legacies continue to shape the future, is a blessing beyond measure. The courage, faith, and dedication of Shivaji and Sri Raghavendra Swamy are not just tales of the past; they are living principles that guide us today, inspiring us to live with purpose, honor, and devotion to the dharma that binds us all.

The devotion towards Sri Raghavendrateertharu is the ultimate truth and is the most simple and effective way to reach Sri Hari - "NAMBI KETTAVARILLAVO EE GURUGALA"! “Those who have complete faith in this Guru will never be disappointed.”

|| BICHALI JAPADAKATTI SRI APPANACHARYA PRIYA MANTRALAYA
SRI RAGHAVENDRATEERTHA GURUBHYO NAMAHA||