Kula Deivam
At the outset, let me tell you that I not an authority on this subject. But I would like to share with you whatever little knowledge I have gained from inter-actions with our elders.
People in the traditional Hindu families have this concept of Kula Deivam. Perhaps, it is the Deity which was worshipped by our forefathers for generations. Most of us have migrated to new places and many among us have little or no knowledge of our own ancestral village. Whether we know it or not, there is no arguing the fact that our ancestors were attached to some place and worshipped some Deity with complete surrender. Any blessings received by our forefathers also must encompass seven generations.
That is to say, the effect of any action that I perform will affect the next seven generations. After that the link becomes weak. It means that if our ancestors worshipped a particular Deity with complete faith and surrender, the connection with the Deity and our ancestors will stand good for seven generations. As more and more generations continue this faithfully, a relationship similar to mother and child is created between the Deity and us. The vibrations of thought are picked up by this aspect of divinity faster than the other forms of God Almighty.
This does not diminish the significance of Ishta Devata. Ishta Devata is that aspect of God that is more attractive to you in this life. You have chosen Him as you will a friend or Teacher whereas Kula Devata is like your family. You may be a good friend, good follower, good student but what good is if you are not a good son or daughter?
My Kula Devatas are Angala Parameswari and Thandavaraya Swami. They must be worshipped like our mother and father. Blessings sought before any auspicious activity is undertaken. Lord Vighneswara, the Kula Devatas and Gurus must be propitiated always. They are the steps one must take to progress further. Without their blessings nothing is possible.
How do we find out about our Kula Deivam? The easy way is to ask around. Someone in the family must know, indeed. But the problem is that many of us have lost contact with even our own relatives. If this is the case with you, what can you do? The answer is pray to your Ishta Devata. Your Ishta Devata will show you the way. If repeated attempts fail, one may consider one's Ishta Devata as his Kula Devata.
If you know your Kula Deivam, make it a point to visit the temple of the Deity at least once in a year. Many people believe that sending some money is enough. An elderly person explained to me that mothers are happier when they their children than when they receive money from them. The same rule applies here. Money may help. But the longing is for proximity.
Continuing to do this will also help keep a tradition alive for future generations. The deeper the root, the stronger the tree.
Here we must remember one thing. There is only one God. The ways to attain him are varied. We must follow the path trodden by our ancestors. Then our journey will be faster and easier. Therein lies the secret of success.
Why are we asked to remember our Abhivadana mantram? It declares our identity and helps us remember our Gurus and ancestry.
Om Ganapataye Namah
Sree Gurubhyo Namah
Om Angala Parameswaryai Namah.
Om Thandavaraya Swamine Namah.
Om Sree Jagadambikayai Namah.
With namaskaram and best wishes.
Sarma Trikkur
