Muktinath is one of the most significant temples of the Vaishnava sect. This pilgrimage center is famous for the god Shaligram. Shaligram is a sacred stone which is considered revered in Hinduism. It is mainly found in the Kali Gandaki River flowing towards Nepal. Traditionally, Lord Vishnu is worshiped as Shaligram Shila or Shaligram stone. This stone was formed from a fossil of insects found in prehistoric times, mainly in the Tethys Sea; there is now the Himalayan Mountains.There is a profound mythological belief that Lord Vishnu resides in the Shaligrama rock. Many fictitious stories are also prevalent in this regard.
According to one of these legends, Lord Vishnu helped Lord Shiva when he could not win the battle against the demon named Jalandhar. The story states that no one could defeat Jalandhar as long as the devil Jalandhar's wife, Vrinda, saved his integrity. In such a situation, Lord Vishnu, taking the form of Jalandhar, succeeded in destroying Vrinda's essence.
By the time Vrinda realized this, it was too late. Unhappy with this, Vrinda cursed Lord Vishnu to lead a life as insects, which eventually led to the construction of the Shaligram stone, which is revered in Hinduism. According to old legends, Muktikshetra is the place where salvation is attained. It is here that Lord Vishnu resides in the Shaligram stone. Muktinath is also an essential place for Buddhists.
DEVI STUTI
“Ya devi sarva bhuteshu, shanti rupena sangsthita
Ya devi sarva bhuteshu, shakti rupena sangsthita
Ya devi sarva bhuteshu, matri rupena sangsthita
Yaa devi sarva bhuteshu, buddhi rupena sangsthita
Namastasyai, namastasyai, namastasyai, namo namaha’‘
MEANING :
‘The goddess who is omnipresent as the personification of universal mother
The goddess who is omnipresent as the embodiment of power
The goddess who is omnipresent as the symbol of peace
Oh Goddess (Devi) who resides everywhere in all living beings as intelligence and beauty,
I bow to her, I bow to her, I bow to her again & again.’
Benefit : This universal Durga Mantra blesses one with power, prosperity and positive energy. It helps build inner power and allows him to develop healthy, loving relationships. Chanting of this Mantra blocks negative thoughts and banish ignorance.
