Mata Kalika holds profound significance for Hindus, embodying our divine protector and a symbol of resilience. Her worship is deeply embedded in our religious and cultural identity, with rituals, festivals, and community gatherings that keep our heritage alive. We revere her fierce and combative nature, drawing strength and courage from her to face and overcome adversities. The rich mythology of Mata Kalika, depicting her as a powerful vanquisher of evil, continues to inspire us, making her an integral figure in our spiritual and cultural life.
This song, composed and performed by Pandit Jasraj, is set in Raga Adana. While it shares a higher octave resonance with Raga Darbari, Raga Adana is distinct in its own right. The rhythm or taal used in this composition is Teental, a 16-beat time cycle.
Lyrics
Sthayi Mata Kalika Mahakal Maharani Jagata Janani Bhavani Bhavani Bhavani Antara Khadaga Moond Khappara Kara Dharani Kara Dharani Kara Dharani Asura Harani Jaga Nirbhay Karini Tarana Tarini Bhakta Palika Dayadani Bhavani Bhavani Bhavani
Meaning
The song "Mata Kalika" is a devotional chant in praise of the Hindu goddess Kali, who is revered as a powerful deity in Hinduism. Here’s a breakdown of the meaning of the lyrics:
"Mata Kalika": This translates to "Mother Kali." Kali is often depicted as a fierce and powerful goddess who represents the destruction of evil forces and the transformative power of time and change.
"Mahakal Maharani": This means "Great Queen of Time (Mahakala)." Kali is often associated with Mahakala, a form of Shiva that represents the ultimate reality and time. As Maharani, she is the queen or supreme ruler.
"Jagata Janani": This translates to "Mother of the World." Kali is often seen as a mother figure who nurtures, protects, and sustains the universe.
"Bhavani Bhavani Bhavani": Bhavani is another name for the goddess, signifying the one who brings into being or existence. Repeating "Bhavani" emphasizes her role as the creator and sustainer.
"Khadaga Moond Khappara Kara Dharani Kara Dharani Kara Dharani": This refers to the goddess holding a sword (Khadaga), a severed head (Moond), and a skull cup (Khappara) in her hands. These symbolize the destruction of ego, ignorance, and the cycle of life and death. By holding these, she is seen as the destroyer of evil and illusion.
"Asura Harani Jaga Nirbhay Karini": This means "Destroyer of Demons, who makes the world fearless." Kali is known for vanquishing demons (Asuras) and bringing fearlessness to her devotees.
"Tarana Tarini Bhakta Palika Dayadani": This can be interpreted as "The one who helps in crossing over (the ocean of existence), protector of devotees, and giver of compassion." Kali is often invoked to help devotees overcome the difficulties of life and grant them her grace and protection.
Overall, this song is a prayer to Goddess Kali, acknowledging her as a fierce protector and compassionate mother who destroys evil, removes fear, and aids her devotees in overcoming the challenges of life.