In the recent years, there has been a concerted effort or, shall we say, a mischievous propaganda by vested interests discouraging Kula Deiva (Family Deity) worship. Our Sanatana Dharma unequivocally says there is only ONE Paramathma (The Ultimate); and there are multitudes of paths to reach that Paramathma. Only the Nama and Roopa (Name & Form) are different, but the essence is the same. This has been purposefully misinterpreted by foreign vested interests that we are polytheistic. Our socio-religious fabric encompasses a variety of deities and worship methods. They have been preserved and practiced since many generations for thousands of years. In that category, the KulaDeiva worship is a critical pillar of our strength. It helps to promote family bondage and functions as a common denominator. After all, it helps to keep the folks in the fold and in the faith.
The ulterior motive propagandists says – KulaDeivams are Siru Deivams (small or inferior deities) and should not be worshipped. It is never the case. One should never pay heed to this. And never forget your Family Deity. Who knows, this mis propaganda could be a ploy by the over zealous faith changing machinaries.
Do you know your Kula Devata? Do you Worship it? Do you have the image of your KulaDevata in your prayer room? Do your children know your Kula Devata? How often you go to that temple? Is that temple in good shape? Is there daily worship happening there? These are all the points to Ponder. Post your thoughts.
May our KulaDevata protect us.
Previous posting on the subject:
KulaDeiva Workship
5 Responses
Fantastic info on Kuladaivam, but did not give any light on those who did not not know their Kuladaivam and how to find and pray?
Hari Om… Periva Sharanam
Sri U.V.Dr.Venkatesh says like this in one of his videos: For Vaishnavites, their local village temple Perumal is their Primary. For other Sampradhayas, Kuladeivam worship should be followed as per family traditions. If the chain is broken or Kuladeivam is not known, one should check with senior family members or relatives or family Purohits. Until then the Ishta Devata should be worshipped. Eventually the Ishta Devata will show or direct to Kuladevata.
Thank you Srinivasan garu for throwing some light. So many people will benefit by this.
This post is so timely for me as a confirmation on the importance of Kula deivam worship. I have been thinking about this for the last couple of months on and off and the answer came just yesterday and I felt such a peace at heart! And seeing your post today just gladded my heart even more! I live in the US and not in a situation to visit our kula devata temple any time soon, but already installed the pic as my computer background for darshan everyday! Thank you.
Swami, can you please provide references from Sastrams / Vedam / Periyava instruction. I am looking for the pramaanam for this. Thanks.