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“The concept of the Goddess is both intriguing and interesting. To tell you the truth nothing can happen without her. The human female is a surrogate of the Goddess. No man can succeed without her energy. That’s why there is the saying that “A successful man always has a woman behind him”. The converse is also true: if a man fails it is also caused by a woman. The feminine whether it is the Goddess or the human female is called Shakti (energy) in India. You may ask how can a woman who is a weakling be energy? It is true that a man is more muscular, strong and carries a lot more energy than a woman. But hereby Shakti is meant like spiritual energy.

The Goddess is real. She is invisible to the naked eye and belongs to heaven. She visits the earth-plane periodically and stays at certain temples. Who brought her over into the earth-plane? The Yogis and Siddhas did. The technology of the Siddhas and the Yogis is quite scientific. Knowing that the Goddess can help the human beings quite miraculously, the Siddhas brought the Goddess over to certain energy spots and enshrined them through esoteric processes. The Goddess stays here in the form or a rock or statue that retains her energy. It is important to identify those shrines and establish your connection with your Goddess.

Establishing a connection with a Goddess is an intricate and sophisticated process. It is unfortunate that the Goddess worship has fallen in the hands of charlatans and the gullible public – both unconsciously continuing the tradition. Nevertheless, one must remember that it is after the Kali Yuga (the Dark Age) and corrupt tendencies that are part of the time period. I am happy that somehow even through this Dark Age that the Gods and Goddesses managed to survive and hold themselves.” –Dr. Pillai

Aadi Velli means the Fridays that fall during the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August) and glorifies various Goddesses of the Hindu pantheon. The festival marks the beginning of all festivals and is considered as an auspicious month. It also heralds the onset of the monsoons and signifies the power of the water Goddesses. Sundays, Tuesdays and especially Fridays are considered favorable to offer prayers in all Goddesses temples honoring the female deity. According to Vedic astrology, in the month of Aadi, the Sun transit into the sign Cancer, which is ruled by Moon. Astronomically, the transit of Sun marks its journey towards South known as Dakshinayanam. This month is considered auspicious to worship Goddess energy, the ruler of Moon, and make spiritual progress. Hence, weddings and similar functions are not conducted during this month.

Importance of Aadi Velli
Usually, the 4th month of the Tamil Calendar is very special for spiritual activities since it is believed that the Power of Goddess Shakti is enhanced uring this period and negates all undesirable elements. The 10th day is celebrated as Aadi Pooram when Thirukalyanam (divine marriage of the Goddess Andal) is conducted and unmarried girls offer special Poojas to the Goddess. Worshipping Goddess energy in her different forms is considered auspicious during this month of Aadi.

Puranas behind Aadi Velli
The Goddess manifested as Pachai Amman (an aspect of Goddess Parvati) to establish peace and harmony in the world. Pachai Amman or Kanni Amman, by her inherent energy appeared in many Holy centers and her presence enhanced the Divine Powers of these localities. In her manifestation of Thirumullaivaayal, She established peace and prosperity in the world. Also called the Goddess of marriage and fertility, she showers her blessings on young maidens aspiring for a suitable groom.

Celebration and Rituals of Aadi Velli
Since all Aadi Fridays have its own significance, Aadi Velli Pooja is worshipped with unique offerings.

1. Sakkarrai Pongal (Sweet) and Payasam (Milk Porridge) are offered.
2. Garland made of Lemon is offered
3. Thamboolam is given to five Sumangalis (married women)
4. Offerings of Milk and Egg to snake pits
5. Lighting of ghee lamps

Benefits of celebrating Aadi Velli

1. Worshipping Goddess Shakti on Aadi Velli removes all the negative forces surrounding you.
2. You are bestowed with health, wealth, intelligence and valor.
3. Removes obstacles related to marriage and progeny.
4. Fulfillment of your wishes
5. The sacred scriptures prescribe fire ceremony, Abishekam (hydration ceremony), Pooja/Archana (Light and Sound ceremony), Yantra and Mantra (special sounds) as the ways to offer your prayer to the divine. Out of these, fire ceremony is the most evolved spiritual technology on earth to connect with the divine beings. Participate in the remedial services to clear your karma and receive the blessings.