The Concept of Kundalini and the Awakening of Shakti

The primary objective of Shakta sadhana and Shakta philosophy is the awakening of the dormant Shakti within oneself. According to Shakta traditions, liberation (moksha) is unattainable without the activation of this inherent energy. Consequently, all branches of the Shakta sect prioritize the practice of Shakti (kundalini) awakening.

In this spiritual framework, 'Kulashakti' resides in the Patala Loka (the netherworld), while 'Akula' (Shiva) exists in the realm of liberation (Mukti Loka). Kundalini Shakti is the beloved spouse of Shiva. Shiva is separated from her consort and the practitioner's ultimate aim is to reunite this divine couple within himself.

Gorakhnath, revered yogi and saint, taught about elevating the 'Ganga of Patala' to the Brahmand (the universe or macrocosm). The 'Ganga of Patala' symbolizes the Kundalini energy. He expressed this teaching with the words:

'Paatal ki Ganga Brahmand chadhaiba, tahaan bimal jal piyaa.'

'Raise the Ganga of Patal to the universe, and there drink the pure water.'

This metaphor illustrates the process of elevating the Kundalini energy from its dormant state at the base of the spine—symbolized by Patala or the netherworld—upwards through the chakras to the crown of the head, symbolized by Brahmand or the universe. Upon reaching this point, the practitioner experiences the pure essence of spiritual enlightenment.

The journey of Kundalini awakening is not just a physical process but a profound spiritual transformation. It represents the union of the individual soul (Atman) with the universal consciousness (Brahman), culminating in ultimate liberation.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi