Sricakra and Srividya An introduction

The structure of Sri Chakra

The basis of Sri Chakra is its mantra; the fifteen lettered mantra in three groups: a e i
la hrim; ha sa ka ha la hrim; sa ka la hrim. The sixteenth letter srim is present in a
subtle form. Sri Chakra is basically a triad. The triangle which is primary to the
chakra has three angles and the deity residing in it is Tripura. The mantra of each of
the nine enclosures of Sri Chakra is three lettered; the mother goddess is
worshipped in her three forms; the Kundalini energy in the individual is threefold,
and the phenomenal processes arising out of the union of Shiva and Shakthi are also
three. The Chakra design represents Tripura or Tripura Sundari; while her manifest
powers (yogini) are nine.
All its other interpretations are also in terms of three and nine. The three groups that
constitute the mantra are called Kuta (peaks) or Khanda (segments).They are
interpreted variously in sets of three as: Agni (fire) , Surya (sun) and Chandra
(moon); srishti(creation), Shtithi (preservation) and laya (dissolution) ; Iccha (will)
, jnana(knowledge)and kriya(action); Sattva, Rajas and Tamas;Jagrat (wakefulness);
swapna (dream state) and sushupthi (deep sleep); jnatra (the knower), jnana (the
knowledge) and jneya( the known) ; as atma(individual self), antaratma(inner being)
and paramatma (supreme self) and also as past , present and future.
In general, the Sri Yantra is a cosmogram a graphic representation of the universal
processes of emanation and re-absorption reduced to their essential outline.
The diagram of the Sri Chakra is primarily a Matrix (i.e. womb) of nine interlocking
triangles. Five of these triangles have their apex facing downward. They are

Shakthi trikonas, the triangles representing five forms of feminine energy, Shakthi.
The other four triangles with their apex facing upward are Shiva trikonas

representing the male aspect, Shiva, Consciousness. In Tantra, the feminine is the
active principle; and the male is passive. The Tantra texts mention that Sri Chakra is
produced when five forms of Shakthi and four forms of Shiva unite. The intersection
of these nine triangles creates forty-three triangles. It is customary to regard the
point at the centre also as a triangle. Thus, in effect there are forty-four triangles in
Sri Chakra; and these are arranged in nine enclosures (navavaranas), in groups of
three.

The intersection of two lines is called Sandhi; and there are 24 such Sandhis. These
intersections have certain significance. The meeting of two lines represents union of
Shiva and Shakthi.

And, the points where three lines meet are called marma sthanas. There are 28
such marma sthanas.
The meeting of three lines represents explicit harmony between Shiva and Shakthi;
and they are vital spots in the body where the life-energy resides as well as
accumulates. The marma has thus been called the Seat of Life or Jiva-sthana.

A total of 43 triangles are created from the overlapping of the nine original triangles.

As regards the Bindu , the dimensionless point at the core of the Sri Chakra Yantra,
the Tantra texts explain that Bindu is Kameshwara , the ground of the universe; and
the immediate triangle is Kameshwari the mother of universe; the union of purusha
and prakriti. The union of these two is the Sri Chakra, which represents the
entire phenomenal pattern. This is denoted by the secret syllable shrim. In fact, it is
this point, coloured red, which really is the Sri Chakra. Every other detail is an
expansion or a manifestation of its aspects. The mother goddess worshipped in Sri
Chakra is the universe. The devotee has to identify that principle in his body, for his
body is the Sri Chakra or the universe in epitome. He is guided in this endeavour by
the guru who is the representative of Shiva.

The Bindu also represents, at various times, the principles or activities known as
the Pancha Kriya of: Emanation of the cosmos from its primal source; Projection of
creation into the primal void; Preservation of the created universe; Withdrawal of the
creative and preservative energies in cosmic dissolutions; and lastly, Retention of
the withdrawn energy-universe for the next cycle of re-creation. These five activities
are regarded as the five modes of expression of the Universal Mother.
There are several other explanations.
Bindu is regarded a sphere in its own right. The expanded form of the Bindu is the
triangle formed by three points and is called Sarva siddhi prada (the sphere of
fulfilment of all aspirations). It is described as Prakriti (Mother Nature) composed of
three gunas (fundamental fabric of all existence) sattva, rajas and tamas. The Kadi
School explains sattva as that which covers and conceals (aavarana); while the other
two gunas as that which project the world of duality or multiplicity (vikshepa). The
three gods Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver) and Rudra (destroyer) are actually
the representations of these three gunas. They are in turn the three aspects of the
Devi represented as trikona chakra.
It also explained that from Shakthi flashes forth the creative impulse known as nada
(sound), which manifests as Kundalini or the creative urge, in all living beings. Here,
Bindu is Shiva; Bija is Shakthi; and nada is their union. These give rise to the power
of will (icchha shakthi); the power of knowledge (jnana shakthi); and power of action
(kriya shakthi).These in turn give rise to Rudra, Vishnu and Brahma.
Another explanation is, Bindu, also called Sarvanandamaya (all blissful), and
represents the transcendental power (Para Shakthi) and absolute harmony
(saamarasya) between Shiva and Shakthi. This is equivalent to what the Vedanta
calls the Brahman. Owing to the power of the will (icchha shakthi) there comes about
an apparent differentiation of Shakthi from Shiva, expressed in the form of triangle.
Here again, the triangle is the expansion of the Bindu (bindu vikasana).If the Bindu

represents the Para-nada, the triangle represents the Pashyanti, the second stage of
the sound, nada. The enclosure next to this, the eight sided figure (ashta kona
chakra) is the Madhyama or the third stage in the development of sound. The rest of
the Chakra represents the physical or the phenomenal stage, the Vaikhari, which is
the manifest and articulate form of sound. The Vaikhari form is represented by the
fifty letters of the alphabet, called matrikas or the source of all transactions and
existence. The sixteen vowels (from aa) constitute the lunar sphere (Chandra
mandala), the twenty-four consonants (from ka to tha) the solar sphere (Surya
mandala); and the remaining ten consonants (from ma to ksha) the sphere of fire
(Agni mandala). Thus, the triangle is also known as tri kuta, tri khanda and tri
mandala.
Bindu is identified with Shiva and trikona with Shakthi. The process of evolution
(shristi) or the apparent separation of Shiva and Shakthi is referred to as adidwandwa. The evolution from the primary state into the mundane level is regarded as
a descent, avarohana krama; whereas the withdrawal from the gross to the very
subtle state is termed Samhara krama. Here the devotee moves into higher spiritual
levels; and therefore it is termed arohana krama. It is a gradual process.
The significance of the triangle is explained thus:
The name of the goddess is Tripura; and number three is important in approaching
her. She is of the nature of the sun, the moon and the fire. She is masculine, feminine
and neuter. Her form is red, white and the mixture of the two. Her mantra has three
letters (hrim, klim, sauh); and from this mantra three segments of time past, present
and future emerge. From this mantra too emerge the realms, three Vedas, three
states of existence ( waking, dreaming and sleeping) and three gods Brahma, Vishnu
and Shiva.

All these geometric designs are contained within Sri Chakra, arranged in nine
enclosures ornava-avaranas.They are also termed as nine chakras. Each of this has
its name, a characteristic physical form and a spiritual significance. Each has its
colour suggesting its tendencies. Each Chakra has its presiding deity (chakreshwari
or Chakra nayika); and she is a variant form of the mother goddess abiding at the
Bindu. The Chareshwari rules over her set of attendant divinities; such as Yoginis
who aid the devotee on in his spiritual progress, and the Mudra Devatas, sealdivinities, who welcome, purify and delight the devotee.
The yoginis have a special role in Sri Chakra worship. They make explicit the union
of the male and female aspects of the Sri Chakra in each of its enclosures. They are
in fact, the symbols of urges, aspirations, inhibitions, limitations, obstructions and
powers active in each individual. The yoginis aid the devotees, but derive their power
from the mother goddess.
Sri Chakra is verily the body of the mother goddess, who resides as energy in the
universe and as pure consciousness in the individual. The nine enclosures
symbolize in a graded series the significance of the universal and individual; the

ideological and ritual; expressive and contemplative; and the in inner and outer
aspects of Sri Chakra.
The outer group of chakras (1, 2 and3) symbolizes extension or shristi. They
represent Shiva aspect of the chakra. The middle group (4, 5 and 6) symbolizes the
preservation or sthithi.They represent Shakthi aspect of the chakra. The inner group
(7, 8 and the Bindu) symbolize absorption or samhara. The Bindu represents the
transcendental aspect of mother goddess. The other two avaranas (7and 8) are also
Shakthi aspects.
The nine chakras are interpreted in terms of Time (kaala), the five elements that
compose all things (Pancha-Bhuthas); and three states of awareness-wakefulness,
dream and deep sleep.
The nine chakras are also interpreted as corresponding to parts in human body.

No.

Chakra

Corresponding to part of human body

Bhupura

First line: feet; Second line: knees; and third line :

thighs

Triple girdle

Mid portion of the body

02

Shoidasha-dala
padma

Region below navel and up to penis region ; kati

03

Ashta-dala padma

Navel region nabhi

04

Chaturdasha

Abdominal region-kukshi

05

Bahir -dasha

Neck-kantha

06

Antar-dasha

Region between eye brows- bhru-madhya

07

Ashtara

Forehead-lalata

08

Trikona

Top of the head- masthaka

09

Bindu

Opening on the crown of the head leading to Sahasra

Dala padma (Brahma randra)

01

The nine avaranas are again recognized as chakras said to be situated along the
central channel or the Shushumna nadi.

No.

Avarana in Sri Chakra

Nadi-chakra

01

Bhupura

Muladhara

02

Shoidasha dala padma

Svadhistana

03

Ashta-dala padma

Manipura

04

Chaturdasha

Anahatha

05

Bahir _dasha

Vishuddha

06

Antar-dasha

Ajna

07

Ashtara

Manasa-chakra

08

Trikona

Soma-chakra

09

Bindu

Sahasra Padma

The nine avaranas, enclosures that compose Sri Chakra are briefly as under. These
are described in the order of absorption (Samhara-krama) according to
Dakshinamurthy tradition. It starts with the outermost enclosure-Bhupura- and leads
to Bindu, the central point.
1. Bhupura also called Trilokya mohana-chakra (Deluder of the Realms) , is the foursided enclosing wall. The three lokas being three levels of experience: attainments,
obstructions and powers. They are also related to the body- mind complex of the
devotee.
A tantra design is always enclosed within an outer wall serving as a protective cover.
As the devotee enters into the Mandala he leaves behind the normal worldly
distractions and conflicts; and emigrates into a world of symbols and visualizations.
A Mandala is thus a mansion of gods and goddesses, a symbol of a higher form of
existence.
There are actually six gateways to the fort Sri Yantra, if we take a three-dimensional
view of it; the four obvious dwaras and those above and below. The Eastern gate is
the way of the mantras. The Southern gate is the way of devotion or bhakti. The
Western gate is for the performance of rites and rituals, or karma-kanda. The
Northern gate is the way of wisdom, or Jnana. The gate below is the path of words
while the gate above is the way or road of liberation. These are located at the
Southern and Northern gate, respectively, i.e. above is north, below is south. Each
of these gates also stands for one of the six primary chakras in the body.

The Bhupura Chakra, the earth stretch, includes within its spatial
scope the entire design even as the earth supports the entire existence. Bhupura is a
Shiva aspect and is made up of three lines or ramparts. The first (outermost) line is
identified with the attainments of yoga powers called Siddhis. They are needed for
self-protection along the inward journey. Such Siddhis are eight in number; and are
attained consequent on gaining control over the elements and the mind.

The second or the middle line represents the powers of eight mother-like
divinities Mathrikawho rule over emotions such as passionate longing (Brahmi),
violent anger (Maheshwari), avarice (kaumari) obstinacy (Varahi) etc
The third (inner) line of the square is identified with ten feminine deties, Mudra
devathas, carrying seals of authority. The mudras are an approach to the divinities.
These could be gross (sthula) being body postures and gestures by hand; subtle
(sukshma) by way of seed-mantras; and para transcendental that is mental or
intuitional approach.
These three lines are also taken to represent the Mother goddess; the outermost line
corresponds to her feet; the middle line to her thighs; and the inner line to her knees.
There are also three concentric circles (trivritta) representing three objectives of life:
Dharma, Artha and Kama.
The avarana is Bhoopura and the Chakra is Trailokyamohana chakra enchants the
three worlds. The yogini is Prakata; Mudra is Sarva Somkshibhni; Siddhi is Anima;
and the mental state of the aspirant is Jagrata. The presiding deity is Tripura. Her
Vidya is Am Am Sauh.The gem is topaz. The time is 24 minutes and the Shaktis are
28 that include the ten starting with Anima, the eight starting with Brahmya and the
ten Mudra Saktis. 28 is the dominant number.
This avarana corresponds to the feet of the mother goddess.
2. The sixteen petalled lotus (shodasha dala padma) called sarva asha paripuraka
chakra,the fulfiller of all desires, is the second enclosure. In the sixteen petals, the
sixteen vowels of Sanskrit alphabet is inscribed. These symbolize sixteen kalas or
aspects
or
phases.
They
are
also
called nithyas and
named Kamakarshini (fascinating the desires), Budhyakarshini (fascinating the
intellect) etc. These relate to powers in the Five Elements, the ten senses of
perception or Indriyas (being further divided into five organs of action and five sense
organs) and the Mind.

The significance of this enclosure is explained as self-protection

(atma raksha) of the devotee. Since frustrated desire is the strongest obstacle to
spiritual progress, the next stage is wisely concerned with satisfying them. Only he
who has experienced can renounce. The values of virtue, wealth and pleasure are
granted at this stage.
The craving Asha springs from discontent; and is quenched when discontent is
eliminated. That is possible when devotee identifies himself with Shiva, ever
complete and ever content.

This is achieved by the cultivation or strengthening of power over mind, ego, sound,
touch, sight, taste, smell, intellect, steadiness, memory, name, growth, ethereal body,
revivification, and physical body.
The avarana is Shodasa Dala, and the Chakra is Sarvasaparipuraka chakra fulfils all
expectations; the yogini is Gupta Yogini; Mudra is Sarva Vidravini; the Siddhi is
Laghima; and the mental state is Swapna, The presiding deity is Tripureshi. Her vidya
is Aim Klim Sauh.The gem is sapphire. The time is three hours. The Shaktis are the
sixteen starting with Kamakarshini. 16 is the dominant number.
This avarana corresponds to the Savdhistana chakra of the mother goddess.
3. Eight petalled lotus (astha dala padma) called Sarva-samkhobhana Chakra the
agitator of all, is the third avarana. Each petal has a consonant inscribed within it that
begins with Ka The petals represent eight divinities associated with erotic urges ,

independent of
physical body(ananga).These relate to mental
pleasures derived through five organs and through the modalities of mind:
rejection(repulsion or withdrawal), acceptance (attention or attachment) and
indifference(detachment).
This enclosure represents the last of the first group of the chakras that
symbolizes Shrusti or emanation.
The avarana is ashta dala; The Chakra is Sarva-samkshobana chakra agitates all.
The Yogini is Gupta- Tara; Mudra is Sarvakarshini; the Siddhi is Mahima; and the
mental state is Shushupti. The Presiding deity is Tripura Sundari. Her vidya is Hrim
Klim Sauh. The gem is cats eye. The time is day and night. The Shaktis are the eight
starting with Ananga Kusuma. 8 is the dominant number.
This avarana corresponds to the navel region of mother goddess.
4. Fourteen triangles (chaturdasha trikona) called sarva sowbhagya dayaka; the
bestower of all prosperity is the fourth enclosure. This is in the form of a complex
figure made up of fourteen triangles. The fourteen triangles are inscribed with
fourteen consonants beginning with ka and ending with dha. The fourteen corners
represent fourteen powers of mother goddess. These are said to preside over
fourteen principle channels of vital forces in human body (naadis) corresponding
with fourteen powers Sarva -Samkshobhini and others.
They are also related to the seat of Shaktis who represent: the Mind (Manas), the
Intellect (Buddhi), Being (Chitta), the Conscious Ego (Ahamkara) and the ten Indriyas.

This enclosure refers to the channels of life currents in the human

body (prana) and their identity with the aspects of Sri Chakra. The explanation given
in Tantra texts is that the breathing in human body is influenced by five elements
present in the body; and in turn those five elements are influenced by the manner we
breathe. Normally, we breathe 360 times in a unit of time called nadika (equivalent to
24 minutes). A day (dina) consists 60 such nadikas. Therefore, in a day (24 hours) we
breathe 21,600 times. The collection of all breathes is mother goddess herself. This is
called nadi-chakra, the organization of winds within the body. The distribution of
breathes among the body centres are as follows:

Chakra

Number of Breathes

Time taken Hrs-mins-sec

Muladhara

0,600

00-40-00

Svadhistana

6,000

06-40-00

Manipura

6,000

06-40-00

Anahata

6,000

06-40-00

Vishuddha

1,000

01-06-40

Ajna

1,000

01-06-40

Sahasra

1,000

01-06-40

Total

21,600

24-00-00

The navel is the central point for distribution of all breathes and life forces moving
along the channels. Normally breath alternates between the ida channel reaching the
left nostril and pingala the channel reaching the right nostril. The former is moon
principle and cools the body; and the latter is sun principle warms the body. The two
meet at muladhara, close to kundalini. Around this central channel is a network of
72,000 channels of which the more important are the 14 mentioned earlier in this
paragraph. These are referred also as 14 divinities. In this avarana the number 14 is
dominant.
Sri Chakra is also described as the diagrammatic representation of the cycle of time
(kaala chakra) and of the chakras in human system.
The Avarana is Chaturdasara; the Chakra is Sarva soubhagya dayaka chakra, grants
excellence. The Yogini is Sampradaya Yogini; the Mudra is Sarva Shankari; the
Siddhi is Ishitva. The mental state is Iswara Vichara. The presiding deity is Tripura

Vasini. Her vidya is Haim Hklim Hsauh.The gem is coral. The time is day and night.
The Shaktis are the fourteen starting with Samkshobhini.14 is the dominant number.
This avarana corresponds to the heart of mother goddess.
5. Ten-sided figure (bahir-dasara) called Sarvartha Sadhaka chakra (accomplisher of
all objects) consisting ten triangles, is the fifth avarana. It is named the outer ten
cornered figure (bahir dasara) in order to distinguish it from a similar figure
enclosed within it.

The ten triangles in this avarana house ten auspicious deties ,

such as Sarva siddhi prada, Sarva sampath prada, Sarva priyamkari,Sarva mangala
karini and so on. The five of the triangles are inscribed with consonants beginning
with Ka; and the other five triangles are inscribed with consonants beginning with
Cha..These represent ten powers of mother goddess who presides over ten vital
forces pranas active in the body. The idea of vayu the winds or vital currents is
fundamental to the concept of channels.
The vital currents are divided into two groups: prana- panchaka andnaga-panchaka.
The first group consist: prana, apana, vyana, udana and samana vayus. These are
responsible for body functions such as respiration, blood circulation, digestion,
voice and separation of nutrients from food etc.
The second group consists vital currents such as naga, kurma, krkara,
devadatta anddhananjaya. These are involved in body movement like belching,
yawning movement of eyelids, causing various sounds in the body. The Dhanajaya
vayu, it is said, is the last to leave the body at its death. In this avarana the number
ten is dominant.
The Avarana is Bahirdasara; the Chakra is Sarvarthasadhakachakra, the
accomplisher of all. The Yogini is Kulotteerna yogini;; the Mudra is Sarvonmadini;
and the Siddhi is Vashitva. The mental state is Guroopa Sadanam. The presiding
deity is Tripura Shri. Her vidya is is Haim Hklim Hsauh.The gem is pearl. The time is
lunar day. The Shaktis are the ten starting with Sarva Siddhi Prada.10 is the dominant
number.
This avarana corresponds to the neck of mother goddess.
6. Ten sided figure (antar dasara) called Sarva raksha karaka (one that protects all)
consisting ten triangles is the sixth avarana. It is named antar dasara, the inner ten
cornered figure, since it is placed within a similar ten cornered figure, mentioned
earlier.

The ten triangles are inscribed with ten consonants beginning

with the five of Tha and the five of Tta group. They represent the powers of the
mother goddess who presides over ten vital fires (vanyaha).These represent the ten
specific fires within the body; being the fire of purgation (Rechak), digestion
(Pachak), absorption (Shoshak), burning (Dahak), the secretion of enzymes (Plavak),
acidification (Ksharak), to take out or excrete (Uddharak), the fires of pessimism and
frustration (Kshobhak), the fire of assimilation (Jrambhak) and creating lustre
(Mohak).
This enclosure is the third of the second group of chakras representing Preservation.
The advent of inner realization begins here. The significance of this avarana is
explained as protection from all obstacles. The devotee distances himself from all
that hinders his spiritual progress; and he begins to develop an awareness he is
Shiva ( the consciousness).
The Avarana is Antardasara; the Chakra is Sarvaraksakara chakra protects all. The
Yogini is Nigarbha Yogini; the Mudra is Sarva mahankusha; and the Siddhi is
Prakamya. The mental state is Upadesa. The presiding deity is Tripura Malini. Her
vidya is is Hrim Klim Blem.The gem is emerald. The time is Lunar Fortnight. The
Shaktis are the ten starting with Sarvagnya.10 is the dominant number.
This avarana corresponds to the middle of the eyebrows (bhrukuti) of the mother
goddess.
7. Eight-cornered figure (ashtara) called Sarva roga hara (the remover of all
deceases) is the seventh avarana. In the eight triangles formed by this figure, eight
divinities presiding over speech reside. Between them they cover all the alphabets in
Sanskrit grammar. Theseshakthis also rule over contradictions in life (dwandwa)
such as cold(water) and heat(fire); happiness(air) and sorrow( earth); as also the
Desire(akasha-space) and the three gunas of Sattvas (consciousness), Rajas(ego)
and Tamas(mind).

The significance of this enclosure is its power to eradicate the

most basic disease viz. involvement with impure, fleeting existence that is laden with

stress. The blessed state is attained when the distinctions between the subject, the
object and transactions between them are dissolved.
The avarana is asthakona; the Chakra is Sarvarogahara chakra cures all ills. The
Yogini is Rahasya Yogini; the Mudra is sarva khechari; and the Siddhi is Bhukthi. The
mental state is Manana. The presiding deity is Tripura Siddha. Her vidya is is Hrim
Shrim Sauh.The gem is diamond (Vajra).The time is Lunar month. The Shaktis are the
eight, starting with Vashini. 8 is the dominant number.
This avarana corresponds to the forehead (lalata) of the mother goddess.
The Four Weapons
In between the mandalas of eight triangles and the central triangles are the four
weapons flowery bow, flowery arrows, noose (pasha) and goad (ankusha). They
are red in colour. They are the weapons of both the mother goddess as Kameshwari
and also of Shiva as Kameshwara.
8. The primary triangle with its apex downward (East) and coloured white (Sattva)
surrounding immediately around the central point, Bindu, is the eighth avarana. It is
calledSarva Siddhi prada chakra, the one that bestows all accomplishment. This
triangle does not intersect with other triangles; and stands independent. It is Kama
Kala. It is feminine in its aspect; and represents three fundamental manifestations of
the mother goddess: Kameshwari (symbolizing moon creation); Vajreshwari
(symbolizing sun- preservation); and Bhagamalini (symbolizing fire -dissolution).

The three angles of the triangle also represent three forms of

speech: Pashyanthi, Madhyama and Vaikhari. The triangle is therefore the speech
aspect Vak Bhava.
It also represents the three powers of iccha (will) , jnana (knowledge) and
kriya(activity).The three corners of the triangle stand for three peaks(kuta) of the
fifteen-lettered mantra; or as three dimensions of all existence. The triangle itself is
regarded the abode of the mother goddess (kama-kala).
The Avarana is Trikona; the Chakra is Sarva-siddhi-prada chakra, grants all
attainments. The Yogini is Athi Rahasya Yogini; the Mudra is Sarva Beeja; and the
Siddhi is Iccha. The mental state is Nitidhyasana. The presiding deity is Tripuraamba.
Her vidya is is Hsraim Hsrklim Hsrsauh..The gem is Gomaya .The time is a ritu- two
months. The Shaktis are the three starting with Kameshwari. (4+3=7) is the dominant
number.
This avarana corresponds to the top of the head (masthka) of the mother goddess.
9. The ninth enclosure is strictly not an enclosure. It is the central dimensionless
point, the Bindu. It is called Sarvananda-maya chakra, the supremely blissful one. It
is independent of the intersecting triangles. It is coloured red. This, in a temple,

would be the sanctum sanctorum, with all the other circles or enclosures
representing various parts of the temple as you move inwards.

It is this Bindu that is in reality the Sri Chakra; it represents the

mother goddess Maha Tripura Sundari, Lalitha or Rajarajeshwari herself; and
everything else is a manifestation of her aspects.
The goddess is nothing other than the devotees own self. The self here does not
refer to jiva, engaged in organizing the body, mind and senses. The self here refers to
individual consciousness (buddhi) which is beyond the body-mind complex. It is
filled with all bliss (sarvananda maya). This constant, abundant bliss is the
expression of the union of Shiva (consciousness) and Shakthi (power of
deliberationVimarsha). It is the very basis of existence. It is called
beautiful, sundara, in this sense. It is in this sense the supreme mother goddess is
called Maha Tripurasundari.
The significance of this avarana is the complete harmony (samarasya) of principles
of pure consciousness (Shiva) and the principle of energy as deliberation (vimarsha
shakthi).It signifies a state of non-duality, where all tendencies of approach and
withdrawal become nonexistent, dissolve in a state in which the devotee ultimately
rests. Bliss, in Tantra, is explained as resting in oneself (Svarupa pratishta).
There is also a school which propounds that the central point is composed of three
dots or drops(Bindu traya) representing three fires(vanhi): Moon(soma);Sun(surya);
and Fire(Agni).The top dot symbolizes the head of the deity; and the pair of dots at
the bottom symbolize the breasts of the Mother. It is explained that the central point
expanding into the three is an act of swelling (ucchuna); and that is how the central
point becomes the primary triangle in Sri Chakra.
The avarana is the Bindu and the Chakra is Sarvanandamaya chakra, replete with
bliss. The yogini is parathi para Rahasya; the Mudra is sarva yoni; and the Siddhi is
Prapthi. The mental state is Savikalpa Samadhi. The presiding deity is her
Transcendent Majesty Lalita Maheshvari Mahatripurasundari. Her vidya is Kamaraja
vidya: ka e i la hrim ha sa ka ha la hrim sa ka la hrim, plus a secret 16th syllable. The
gem is ruby. The time is year. The Shakti is Maha Tripura Sundari the personification
of Brahman.
This avarana corresponds to Brahma-randra on the top of the head of the mother
goddess.
***
Travelling from the outer periphery wall to the inner bindu is an ascent through
various levels of consciousness and mystical significance, overcoming myriad

obstacles of conditioning and fears along the way. As he proceeds inward from the
outermost enclosure the devotees thoughts are gradually refined; and the
association of ideas is gradually freed from the constraints of conventional reality.
The Devi is felt or visualized in his heart and then drawn out through the breath and
installed in the yantra. She is then worshipped as actually residing there. The true
home of Devi is however in his heart .The devotee identifies himself with the Devi and
goes through the worship guided by the symbolism. Whatever be the details, the
symbolism involved is important in the external worship ; and more so in internal
worship( contemplation on the import of the chakra).
Sri Chakra is also a construct of space and time, just as the universe is a space time
continuum. The way of the universe is continuous and constant change. That
change, in a relative existence, is measured by the phases of moon. Mother goddess
is the principle of time; she is kala or nitya. The Sri Chakra also puts forth the
interdependence of time and space. The devotee views the evolution of the universe
as the unfolding of a changeless reality of Mother Goddess.

The Sri Chakra represents the interplay of the purusha and prakriti; the universe and
its energy. The union of the Devi (energy) and Shiva (consciousness) worshipped in
Sri Chakra is the universe and its evolution. The universe is thus stylized into a
pattern of energies, symbolized by the patterns and layout of Sri Chakra. It provides a
model to the individual for transformation. The consciousness of the individual finds
in it an articulation; and the model helps in breaking the barriers of subjective
feelings and limitations of the objective world. The devotee identifies that his body is

the Sri Chakra or the universe in epitome; and that The Yantra too is the Devi. The
aim is to realize that oneness, the bliss of pure consciousness.

Sri Chakra and Sri Vidya

According to Tantric texts, the Chakra, Mandala or Yantra is a sphere of influence

and a consecrated environment. It is an instrument to harmonize feelings; and also to
coordinate inner and outer forces.
The term Yantra is derived from the root yam suggesting a sense of control (say, as
in niyantra to control), giving raise to the meaning of an instrument that can control
or be controlled. In that sense, the body is a yantra. The other term tra is from the
root word trayati, that which liberates. Yantra is that which controls and liberates. It
draws towards the centre as also takes away from the centre of all reality.
The basic energies of the universe, which are the deities, can be approached through
a mental creative process, that is, through words or through created forms. Deities
are therefore represented both in words and forms.
There are different degrees of abstraction. We can represent a deity through the
description of its characteristics in words, or sounds, that is, mantras. Similarly, we
can represent a deity through diagrams, geometrical abstractions or patterns, the
yantra. The representation of a deity through mantra or yantra is considered more
subtle than through an image.
Yantras are the visual equivalents of the mantras. The yantra has the mantra as its
soul; and the deity is the soul of the mantra. The difference between the mantra and
the deity is the difference between the body and the soul. The deity is invoked by
drawing its yantra and calling its subtle name (bija akshara).
All the elementary geometric figures lines, triangles, crosses, and point (bindu)
have a symbolic value corresponding to their basic notions. They can be combined
to form complex figures to give expression to forces, the inner aspects and qualities
embodied in a given form of creation. It is said, there no shape, no form which may
not be reduced to yantra patterns. Every shape, every leaf, every flower is a yantra,
which through its shape, colour, formation, perfume can tell the story of its creation.
Yantras which are drawn on flat surfaces are basically conceived as solid forms. The
drawing is a mere suggestion of its three dimensional aspects of the yantra. And, the
yantra is itself a static image of the moving, living combination of forces represented
in a divinity.
A Yantra is structured in three levels, of spaces, the level of physical world of beings
and things (mahakasha); the level of thoughts and feelings (Chittakasha); and the
level of pure, undifferentiated consciousness (Chidakasha).The first level is
predominantly inert , Tamas; while the second level is active and emotional, Rajas.
The third level is of light and pure awareness Sattva. A Yantra is a means to progress
from the gross to the subtle, sukshma.
To put it in another way, Yantra is an instrument to transform matter into energy and
the energy into consciousness. In the final analysis, the walls separating the
objective world, the subjective person and the Universal consciousness break down;
and it is all One in the end. This complete harmony of existence is symbolized
by Bindu, a dimensionless point at the centre of the Yantra or Chakra.
In fact, chakra is regarded the expansion or the evolution of that Bindu. The Bindu in
turn is epitome or the microcosm of the Chakra. The Yantra facilitates the movement

of consciousness from the concrete form of Chakra to the abstract Bindu. It also
enables movement from the abstract Bindu to the form of Chakra. A Yantra in
essence is a map of the universe in its emanation and absorption.
Sri Chakra Yantra is regarded the supreme Yantra, the Yantra Raja, the king of
Yantras. It is the Yantra of the Shaktha school of Tantra. It is also variously regarded
as the visual representation of the city, mansion, island or the body of the mother
goddess Devi, Tripurasundari, Lalitha, Rajarajeshwari and Parabhattarika, the
supreme controller. The design also stands for this divinitys court with all her
attendant aids, guards, pavililions, enclosures and entrances. The principal divinity is
regarded as being at the centre, the Bindu of the chakra.
The prefix Sri denotes that the Yantra is auspicious, beneficent, salutary, benign and
conducive to prosperity. Sri is Lakshmi, the goddess of beauty and prosperity. Sri is
also the Mother goddess who rules the universe. Sri Chakra is a representation of the
interplay of the principles of pure consciousness (Shiva) and primordial power
(Shakthi).Sri Chakra represents the essential aspects of the universe and also the
constitution of the devotees body-mind complex.
The concept and worship of Sri Chakra is relevant in the context of an esoteric
discipline known as Sri Vidya.
Sri Vidya is hailed as the Vidya of Sri (the knowledge that leads to the ultimate
benefit mukthi liberation), she therefore is the highest divinity. Sri Vidya is also the
Vidya that yields Sri (prosperity). Sri Vidya is thus Bhukthi Mukthi prada the bestower
of wellbeing, prosperity and liberation. Sri Vidya is the path and the goal.
Vidya usually stands for knowledge, learning, discipline and a system of thought.
But, in the context of Tantra, it has an extended meaning. Here, it variously refers to a
female deity, to the personification of her consciousness; or to the manifestation of
her power. Devi Durga is described as the Vidya in all beings (Ya Devi
sarvabhutheshu, Vidya rupena samsthita); and the form of her Vidya is the primordial
energy Adi prakrithi.
The Tantra texts classify ten divinities into three levels of Vidyas:
(1) Maha_vidya, the extraordinary Vidyas, consisting Kali and Tara. The worship of
these divinities requires great rigor, austerity, devotion, persistence and a sort of
detachment. The practice of Maha_vidya is very difficult and filled with risks and
dangers ;
( 2) Vidya, the normal Vidyas consist deities Shodashi (or Tripura), Bhuvaneshwari,
Bhiravi, Chinmastha and Dhumavathi. The practice of this class of Vidya is
considered safe and suitable for householders;
and
(3) Siddha Vidya, the Vidya for adepts involves deities Kamalaa, Matangi and
Bhagalamukhi. This class is not for normal persons as it involves rituals that cannot
be practiced normally.
Shodashi is the first among the Vidyas in the middle group; she is otherwise known
as Sri Vidya. Shodashi literally meaning a girl of sixteen is identified with deities
Lalitha, Raja_rajeshwari, Sundari, Kameshwari and Bala. Lalitha is the playful one; all

creation,manifestation and dissolution is her play. She is Mahatripura Sundari the

most magnificent transcendental beauty without a parallel in three worlds. She is the
conqueror of three levels of existence.
The Tantra texts however explain that the Vidya is called Shodashi because the
mantra of the Vidya is made up of sixteen seed _syllables. There is another school
(Kadi Vidya) which says the mantra consists fifteen visible syllables (ka e i la hrim;
ha sa ka ha la hrim; sa ka la hrim). It is explained that ka represents the air; ha the
fire; sa the water; la the earth and e the space. The fifteen syllables are: one of space,
two of air; three of fire; four of water; and five of earth. The sixteenth letter is srim
in subtle form. The mantra then becomes Shodashi, the sixteen lettered.
The fifteen lettered mantra is divided into three groups: ka e i la hrim); ha sa ka ha la
hrim; and; sa ka la hrim. The three groups that constitute the mantra are
called Kuta (peaks) or Khanda (segments). They are interpreted variously in sets of
three
as: Agni(fire)
, Surya(sun)
and Chandra(moon); srishti (creation), Shtithi (preservation)
and laya (dissolution); Iccha (
will), jnana(knowledge)and kriya (action);Sattva,Rajas and Tamas; Jagrat (wakefulnes
s); swapna (dream state) and sushupthi (deep sleep);jnatra (the knower), jnana (the
knowledge) and jneya ( the known) ; atma (individual self) , antaratma (inner being)
and paramatma (supreme self) and as past , present and future.
There is also a view that the first group starting with ka is kadi_matha; the second
group starting with ha is hadi_matha; and the third group starting with sa is
sadi_matha.
The mantra (fifteen or sixteen letters) is an expression of Sri Vidya. The verbal
expression (nada or sound) of the Vidya is mantra and its visual expression is the Sri
Chakra Yantra. The two are essentially the same. Both seek identity of
consciousness with Maha Tripura Sundari.
Another interesting aspect is that the vowels (aa, e, i etc.) are regarded as
representations of Shakthi; while the 35 consonants are basically inert and depend
on vowels (just as Shiva depends on Shakthi) to manifest in a meaningful form. It is
only when the germinating power (bija) of the vowels is infused with consonants, the
latter gain meaning. That is the reasons the vowels are Bija aksharas. They transform
ordinary letters into mother like condition (matrika); that is, they impregnate ordinary
letters with meaning and power.
Sri Vidya is also described as Chandra_kala_vidya, the lore of the lunar digits. This
school of Sri Vidya explains that the fifteen letters of the mantra correspond to fifteen
digits of the moon in each fortnight commencing from prathipada, the first day of the
brighter half, when the moon comes out of the sun; and ending with the full moon
on the fifteenth day. Similarly, in the dark half of the moon cycles all digits return to
the sun. The emanation of the fifteen digits of the moon from the sun culminates in
the full moon (purnima); while the absorption of the digits into the sun results in new
moon (Amavasya).The sixteenth letter (Shodasha kala or Srim) is said to be present

in each of the digits which are calledKalas or nityas. The digits are invoked as forms
of the Mother goddess.
The first digit is Maha Tripura Sundari; the second is Kameshwari; and the third is
Bhagamalini. These three together form the primary triangle which is the immediate
unfolding of the central Bindu representing Mother Goddess.
The Sri Vidya tradition which centers on the worship of Sri Chakra, considers the
following twelve gods and sages as its gurus: Manu, Chandra, Kubera, Lopamudra,
Manmatha, Agasthya, Nandisha, Surya, Vishnu, Skanda, Shiva and Durvasa. It is said
each of the twelve gurus propagated a school with regard to the worship and
significance of Sri Chakra. Of these, only two schools have survived to this day; one
is the school started by Manmatha (also called Kamaraja) known as Kadi_matha. The
Kadi tradition was continued by sage Agastya. The other school is Hadi_matha
started by Lopamudra wife of the Sage Agastya. There is also a mention of an
obscure third school called Sadi_matha.
Of the three, the Kadi_ matha (with its mantra starting with letter Ka) is regarded the
oldest and its attitude and worship is Sattvic. It insists on virtue, discipline and purity
of rituals. The prominent gurus of this school are Paramashiva, Durvasa, Hayagreeva
and Agasthya. Of the other two schools, Hadi_matha is Rajasik and the Sadi _matha
is Tamasik.
Kadi matha accepts Vedic authority and formulates its position in accordance with
the Vedic tradition. The other school is considered different (iyam anya cha
vidya).The term Samaya also means Vedic convention as orthodox and valid. Hence
Kadi School came to be known as Samaya.
Samaya believes in sameness of Shiva and Shakthi; and the form of worship is
purely internal. Hence Kadi School is also known as Para Vidya where the worship
(archana) is conducted in the space of ones heart (hrudayakasha madhye).
The external worship conducted say by Kaulas, lays greater importance on the
Muladhara and Swadhistana chakras which are said be situated at the base of the
spinal column which relate essentially to physiological needs and psychological
urges. The Samaya School on the other hand prescribes that the internal worship
(antar aradhana) be conducted at higher levels, viz., from Manipura to Sahasra. The
seat of Tripura is at Sahasra, beyond the six chakras. It is also the seat of supreme
consciousness, Shiva from which Shakthi springs forth.
Shakthi is of the same nature as Brahma (Brahma rupini) that divides itself five-fold.
It is a spontaneous unfoldment. In Samaya system Brahman is called Sadashiva; it is
the Bindu, from which emerges nada which is Para_shakthi. It is at the Sahasra,
the Bindu Sthana that Shiva and Shakthi reside. They are the same; one cannot be
without the other.
Samaya is centred on knowledge (jnana) which is the realization of the identity of
Shiva and Shakthi: Shiva becomes Kameshwara and Kameshwari becomes Shiva.
Their names too get intertwined, for instance, Shiva and Shivaa; Tripura and
Tripuraa; Bhava and Bhavani; Shambu and Shambhavi; Rudra and Rudrani; and
Sundara and Sundari etc.

Dakshinamurthi is a revered seer of the Kadi (samaya) School. The term Dakshina
literally means a woman and refers to the feminine principle, which can create, unfold
and manifest. When Dakshina assumes a form, it results in Dakshinamurthi a variety
of Shivas forms. Dakshinamurthi, as ardha_nari; Kameshwara and Kameshwari are
together regarded the principle deities of Kadi School.
Sri Chakra is the main device employed by Kadi (Samaya) school; and the worship is
mainly through symbolisms and successive identifications. The symbolism involves
identification (saamaya) of the arrangements and the lines of the diagram with the
structure of the Universe; the psychophysical aspects of the devotee with the
spatial arrangement of the diagram representing the goddess; and identifying the
Mantra with the Yantra.
As regards the worship of Sri Chakra, there are three recognized procedures :
( 1) Hayagreeva tradition regarded as Dakshina_chara, the right handed method,
reciting Lalitha_sahasra Nama and Lalitha_tristathi offering kunkumam.
(2) Anandabhirava tradition , a Vama_chara,a left handed method;
and
(3) Dakshinamurthy tradition , a doctrinal school.
Of the three the last one is considered the best.
Sri Vidya traditions speak of two forms of Sri Chakra. One is its physical
representation of lines and forms. This form entails external worship (puja) according
to prescriptions of kalpa sutra spread over 26 steps. Here, Kameshwara and
Kameshwari are the deities that receive worship.
There are, again, three methods of worship of Sri Chakra. Theshrishti_krama the
expansion mode of worship, carried out in morning, comprehends the chakra from
the central point the Bindu to the outer square. The Sthithi_krama the preservation
mode of worship, carried out in the afternoon, comprehends the chakra from the
outer square to the eightfold lotus and from the Bindu to the fourteen cornered
figure. The third, Samhara_krama the absorption mode of worship, carried out in the
night, comprehends the chakra from the outer square to the central point.
[Even in this method the visualizations and contemplations are not entirely
dispensed with.]
The other form of worship is Viyacchakra, the chakra emerging within ones heart.
This entails visualization of Bindu, which is in the centre of the Sahasra, within ones
heart. The ability to visualize Viyacchakra is known assamaya. The worship (maanasa
puja) is offered internally and consists wholly of visualizations and contemplations;
and is carried out in seclusion by one who is in control of his senses.
The process here involves a four-fold conceptualization of identity (aikya
chintana)They are , briefly :
(i) Identity of the Supreme goddess who is un_manifest with Sri Chakra which is
manifest;
(ii) Identity of the design of Sri Chakra with the Universe. It is viewed as a cosmogram
;

(iii) Identity of the individual with the Universe . This is done primarily on the basis of
the Shat chakra ideology (six chakras- muladhara, svadhistana, manipura, anahata,
visuddha and ajna) and the tattvas , the principles , of Shaivagama;
and
(iv) Identity of the letters of the alphabets (matrikas) with the deities located in
various segments of the Sri Chakra.
As can be seen from the above the six factors involved are :
(i) the Universe (Brahmanda);
(ii) individual (pindanda);
(iii) the structure of Sri Chakra;
(iv) letters of the alphabets(matrikas);
(v) the goddess (Devi);
and
(vi) the mantra specific to her.
The Tantra texts emphasize the merit of inner worship (antar_yaga), once a fair
degree of understanding has been gained. They said Best of all forms of worship is
inner worship. External worship (ritualistic) is to be resorted until the dawn of
understanding.
In any case, Sri Vidya is the worship of mother goddess incarnated in the Sri Chakra.
Her worship includes the worship of her consorts (Devata) and aids (yogini); all of
whom are female. The ritualistic details are characteristically feminine.
A Sri Vidya Upasaka worships beauty and grace; rejecting ugliness in thought, word
and deed. Sri Vidya is the path of devotion and wisdom. The wisdom consists in
realizing ones identity (sva svarupa prapti) with the Mother goddess. It is this wisdom
that liberates the devotee (jivan Mukthi). This liberating wisdom is granted to him by
the Mother out of pure love, when the devotee surrenders to her completely in full
faith and devotion. The Mother is the path and the goal. Sri Vidya is the culmination
of all paths, the consummation of all transformations.