UCCHISTA GANAPATI ASHTASTOTRAM LEARNING SERIES: VERSE 33

Devās are celestial beings known for their benign nature and worshipped as gods. They have the power to control the forces of nature, benefits and afflictions caused by the gravitational forces of planets etc.

  The import of this nāmā is that śrī gaṇeśa can ward off all evil afflictions of nature, planets and also protect us from any evil, as well as grant us happiness.

Commentary on Verse 33 of the Ucchista Ganapati Ashtastotram

“ॐ इन्द्रादिदेवतावृन्दरक्षकाय नमो नमः ॐ”
(oṃ indrādidevatāvṛndarakṣakāya namo namaḥ oṃ)

Translation:
“Salutations to the One who protects the celestial beings like Indra and his divine troops.”

Commentary:

This verse emphasizes Ucchista Ganapati’s role as the divine protector, safeguarding not only humans but also celestial beings (devās), including Indra, the king of the gods, and his host.

1. “Indrādi Devatā Vṛnda” (इन्द्रादिदेवता वृन्द):

• Indra is the ruler of the heavens and represents power, authority, and control over natural elements like rain, storms, and lightning. He is often considered the leader of the devās, who govern various forces of nature.
• The phrase “Indrādi” implies that Ganapati’s protective grace extends to all the devās (vṛnda means a group or assembly), signifying His supreme authority over celestial realms.

2. “Rakṣakāya” (रक्षकाय):

• Rakṣaka means protector or guardian. This highlights Ganapati’s role as the cosmic safeguard, ensuring the balance and harmony of both celestial and earthly domains.
• As the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta), Ganapati protects not only individuals but also the divine order, ensuring that the devās can fulfill their duties without obstruction.

3. Significance of Protecting the Devās:

• The devās, though powerful, are not invincible. They often face threats from asuras (demons) and cosmic disruptions. Ganapati’s role as their protector signifies His universal jurisdiction and ability to maintain cosmic balance.
• By safeguarding the devās, Ganapati ensures the continued functioning of the natural order, as the devās represent the forces that govern nature, such as wind (Vāyu), fire (Agni), and rain (Indra).

4. Symbolism for Devotees:

• The mention of Ganapati as the protector of the devās reassures devotees of His power to shield them from harm, whether it arises from natural calamities, planetary influences (graha doshas), or unseen forces.
• This verse inspires confidence that Ganapati, as the guardian of even the most powerful beings, is ever-present to offer protection to all who seek His refuge.

5. Protection Against Planetary and Natural Afflictions:

• In Hindu cosmology, devās are also associated with the control of planetary movements and their influence on human lives. Worshipping Ganapati can mitigate malefic planetary influences (graha doshas) and bring harmony.
• The verse suggests that Ganapati has the power to neutralize the afflictions caused by celestial and natural forces, ensuring peace and happiness for His devotees.

6. Spiritual Interpretation:

• Beyond physical protection, Ganapati also provides spiritual safeguarding, guiding devotees through the trials of life and ensuring their progress on the path of self-realization. His protection of the devās symbolizes His support of righteousness (dharma) and the cosmic order.

Devotional Aspect:

The repeated salutation (namo namah) emphasizes the devotee’s deep reverence and trust in Ganapati’s protective power. It is an invocation of His grace to remove obstacles, protect from harm, and grant peace and prosperity.

Conclusion:

Verse 33 of the Ucchista Ganapati Ashtastotram glorifies Ucchista Ganapati as the ultimate protector of both the celestial and earthly realms. His guardianship over the devās, including Indra and his divine hosts, illustrates His supremacy and reinforces the belief that His protective power transcends all levels of existence. For devotees, this verse serves as a reminder of Ganapati’s boundless grace and inspires faith in His ability to provide safety, harmony, and happiness in all circumstances.