Padmavati Havan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Padmavati Havan," based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shri Padmavati Havan Compiler/Author: Pujya Gurudev Shri Mitranandsagarji Maharaj Publisher: Nirgrantha Foundation, Ahmedabad First Edition: 1999 Reprint (Compact): 2003 Value: ₹25

Overall Purpose and Theme:

"Shri Padmavati Havan" is a Jain ritualistic text compiled by Pujya Gurudev Shri Mitranandsagarji Maharaj. It provides a detailed guide for performing a 'Havan' (a fire ritual) dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, a significant protective deity in Jainism, particularly associated with the 23rd Tirthankar, Lord Parshvanath. The book aims to offer spiritual benefits, peace, and the fulfillment of desires through this sacred ritual, drawing upon the wisdom of ancient Jain Acharyas and scriptures.

Key Content and Structure:

1. Introduction and Foreword:

   • The book begins with acknowledgments and dedications, particularly to Shri Mad Buddhisagarsurishwarji Maharaj.
   • It includes a "Welcome" from Shri Nilayendr Jain, the Honorable Governor of Rajasthan (2003), who emphasizes the peace derived from Devi worship and the efficacy of devotion.
   • A "Welcome" from Shri Keshubhai Patel, the Honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat (1999), highlights the relevance of Jain principles and the significance of Mitranandsagarji's work in making the vast treasury of Jain mantras accessible.
   • A "Welcome" from Dr. Dinesh Parmar, MLA and former Minister, lauds the second edition and connects the concept of 'Havan' to the Jain principle of burning negative qualities like lust, anger, greed, etc., through self-restraint. He also emphasizes the compassionate nature of Goddess Padmavati.

2. Editor's Note (from Pujya Gurudev Shri Mitranandsagarji Maharaj):

   • The editor expresses gratitude for the overwhelming response to the first edition of the 'Padmavati Havan Vidhan.'
   • He clarifies that this is a compact version of the previous publication and does not include the Vastu-related rituals.
   • He confirms that the provided ritual has been performed successfully under his guidance, yielding positive experiences of the Goddess's grace.
   • He mentions that the request for a compact version was frequent from devotees and scholars.
   • A notable point is the change in the representation of the seed syllable (beej mantra) from the ancient 'Om Hri' to the more commonly recognized 'Om Hreem' for the convenience of readers unfamiliar with ancient practices, a suggestion accepted from experienced scholars.
   • He addresses the question of 'Havan' support in Jain scriptures, stating that a detailed explanation will be provided in the future.
   • He expresses gratitude to the Governor and the former Chief Minister for their supportive words.

3. Prelude to Havan Vidhan:

   • This section describes the 'Havan Vidhan' as a sacred, powerful, and miraculous ritual.
   • It is stated to be beneficial for removing diseases, sorrows, fulfilling desires, and alleviating worries. It can be performed on any auspicious day.
   • It is particularly recommended for homes with unrest, influence of malevolent spirits, or family members experiencing unexplained distress.
   • The Havan is also said to pacify specific astrological afflictions like Vishayog, Nagdosha, Pitridosha, Kaalsarp Yoga, accident yogas, and premature widowhood.

4. Important Explanations and Instructions for the Ritual:

   • Participation: Multiple individuals can participate sequentially. Participants can be changed after every 27 pujas or even in between if a special need arises.
   • Roles: Four people should be dedicated to Goddess Padmavati's worship: one for Kesar puja, one for coin offerings, one for Vakshep (rice grains) puja, and one for flower offerings.
   • Havan Kund Roles: Three people should be at the Havan Kund: one to offer ghee, one to offer 'Guthika' (prepared balls), and one to offer sandalwood etc.
   • Preparation: All Havan materials should be prepared in advance to avoid last-minute rush. Refer to other sections for details.
   • Havan Kund: For home rituals, a ready-made copper Havan Kund is recommended. Brick kunds cannot be dismantled for six months.
   • Simplicity: The ritual is described as being in simple language, allowing one to read and perform simultaneously.
   • Cleanliness: All utensils and equipment must be clean, shining, and undamaged. Shoddy practices are discouraged.
   • Attire: Clothing worn during worship must be clean and untorn. The text emphasizes that deities first test the purity of the devotee. Mentally impoverished individuals should not undertake the Havan.

5. Preparation of Havan Guthika (Balls):

   • The 'Guthika' are made from a mixture of seven ingredients: almonds (200g), walnuts (200g), charoli (200g), grated coconut (200g), guggal (200g), and Dashang Dhup (100g).
   • These are mixed with an appropriate amount of ghee and formed into 108 small balls, similar to those prepared during Jain fasting rituals.
   • It's advisable to prepare them the day before.

6. Preparation of Other Materials:

   • Sandalwood shavings and mango bark should be soaked in melted ghee beforehand.
   • Raksha Potli (Protection Pouch): A bundle of Raksha Potli is placed at the feet of the Goddess. During each offering (after the 'dank' sound), Vakshep is sprinkled on it. After the ritual, each devotee ties one Raksha Potli, which acts as a powerful protective shield.
   • Red Thread: A red thread (approx. 30 inches) is used. For each offering (Aahuti) and its accompanying 'dank' sound, a knot is tied. One person can prepare four such threads with 27 knots each. These threads, after being blessed by a Guru, can be worn around the neck for progress, health, and protection.
   • Havan Ash (Bhasm): The ash collected the next day, after sieving, can be used for ailments, during crises, or on special occasions. A pinch can be taken on the head after chanting mantras for protection. It's also used for children warding off the evil eye.

7. Arrangement of Puja Materials:

   • A detailed layout is provided: a clean base (bajoth) with a red cloth, placing the idol/photo of the Goddess, thalis for mango bark, sandalwood, flowers (27 in each of 4 thalis), Havan Guthikas (27 in each of 4 thalis), coins (27 in each of 4 thalis), clothes (chundari), gold coin (guinea), Vakshep, Kesar, Bidaloo (for Tilak), ghee, lamp for Aarti, etc.
   • The last page of the booklet contains a complete list of puja materials.

8. Useful Instructions:

   • Lamp: The lamp is lit only when its turn comes in the ritual.
   • Havan Kund Wood: Wood should be pre-treated with ghee to ensure quick ignition.
   • Ventilation: If performing indoors, ensure proper ventilation to avoid suffocation from smoke.
   • Utensils: If using utensils from a temple (derasar), make a generous donation ('nakro').
   • Pronunciation (Ucchar Shuddhi): Emphasizes the critical importance of correct pronunciation of mantras, Shanti Path, etc. Incorrect pronunciation of even simple words like "Namah" as "Namah" can be detrimental. The text stresses the need for purification of pronunciation, mind, methods, body, place, and mantras.

9. Aahuti Mool Mantra (Main Offering Mantra):

   • The primary mantra for the offerings is provided separately for practice, focusing on clear pronunciation. It is a powerful mantra dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, asking for her blessings and fulfillment of desires.

10. Ritual Steps (Detailed):

    • Panchamukhi Panchamukhi Namskar: The initial invocation begins with the Panchamukhi Namaskar and related auspicious verses.
    • Self-Protection Ritual (Atmaraksha Vidhan): Involves specific verses and mudras to create a protective shield.
    • Earth Purification (Bhumishuddhi Vidhan): Involves chanting a mantra and sprinkling Vakshep.
    • Wealth Ritual (Dhan Vidhan): A ritual to invite prosperity.
    • Material Purification (Samagri Pavitrikaran Vidhan): Purifying all puja materials.
    • Vakshep Vidhan: Sprinkling blessed rice grains.
    • Tilak Vidhan: Applying a Kesar-Bidaloo tilak to devotees.
    • Padmavati Sthapana (Installation of Padmavati): Invoking and installing the Goddess. This involves specific mantras, sounds ('danka'), and placing a coconut at her feet, symbolizing her presence.
    • Panchopachar Puja: Performing a five-fold worship with clothes, flowers, incense, lamp, and gold. Each step is accompanied by specific mantras and 'danka' sounds.
    • Aahuti Mangal Vidhan (Main Havan Procedure):
      • Lighting the fire with sacred wood and ghee, starting with a mantra to Agni.
      • The core ritual involves chanting the Aahuti Mool Mantra 108 times, with offerings (ghee, Guthikas, sandalwood) made with each repetition.
      • Simultaneously, one person performs Kesar puja, flower offerings, and coin offerings to the Goddess.
      • The process is repeated with 108 offerings.
    • Shanti Dhara (Auspicious Stream): A section for a powerful peace invocation. It includes specific mantras for peace, prosperity, health, and protection from all evils. It involves the offering of a blessed coconut.
    • Padmavati Prarthana (Prayer to Padmavati): Devotees offer rice grains and recite a prayer seeking her blessings for happiness, wealth, and protection. This is followed by 27 'danka' sounds and an offering of rice.
    • Aahuti Mool Mantra (Repeat): The main offering mantra is repeated for 108 times, with each offering accompanied by a 'danka'.
    • Final Offering and Peace: After the 108 offerings, a final 'Shanti Path' is recited, followed by the offering of the blessed coconut into the Havan Kund.
    • Aarti: A devotional song and Aarti (worship with lamps) is performed for Goddess Padmavati.
    • Visarjan Vidhi (Immersion Ritual): Bidding farewell to the Goddess with a mantra, requesting her return.
    • Kshama Yachna (Seeking Forgiveness): Prayers for forgiveness for any omissions or errors during the ritual.
    • Sarva Mangal: Concluding with a prayer for universal well-being.

11. Material and Equipment Lists:

    • Detailed lists of materials required for the Havan and the necessary ritual equipment are provided at the end for practical guidance.

In essence, "Shri Padmavati Havan" is a meticulously compiled guide that bridges ancient Jain traditions with the needs of modern devotees, offering a path to spiritual solace and material well-being through dedicated worship of Goddess Padmavati.