The Motherly Love of Mahalakshmi

Atmarama was a young boy. His father, a devoted purohit, was well-versed in the Vedas. Atmarama helped him and learned from him. But then, his father passed away, and Atmarama became an orphan. His life grew lonely and difficult, so he left his village and wandered from place to place.

One day, he reached the holy hill, Venkatachala. He bathed in the sacred waters of Kapilatheertham and worshiped Lord Kapileswara. Then, he climbed the hill.  At the top, he sat under a tree, feeling sad and helpless. He missed his father and felt sorrow for not being able to support his family.

Looking for fruits, he found a cave nearby. Inside, he saw a brilliant sage in deep meditation. This sage was Sanatkumara. Atmarama bowed before him with tears in his eyes and asked for help, sharing his pain.

Sanatkumara closed his eyes, meditated, and told Atmarama that his troubles were from sins in a past life. In that life, he had harmed others and gave nothing to charity. To help Atmarama, the sage advised him to worship Sri Mahalakshmi, the mother goddess who can remove sins and bless with wealth and peace.

Sanatkumara gave him a special mantra to worship Mahalakshmi, then vanished. Atmarama, filled with hope, went to a nearby garden, sat under a tree, and began to meditate on Sri Mahalakshmi. Days passed in deep devotion. Then one day, he opened his eyes and saw a beautiful vision. Before him stood Sri Venkateswara with his consorts, Sri Devi and Bhudevi, shining with light.

Atmarama felt a deep joy and bowed before them. Lord Venkateswara blessed him, saying that his devotion to Sri Devi had removed his sins. He would now be blessed with wealth, knowledge, and peace.

After this, Atmarama lived near the holy hills with wealth and comfort. He spent his life in worship and helped the needy. His devotion earned him the Lord’s blessings and affection.

Lessons -

1. This story shows Sri Mahalakshmi as a kind and forgiving mother. She helps those who suffer from past mistakes. When Atmarama sincerely prays, she removes his hardships. Her blessings bring him wealth, knowledge, and peace.
2. Sri Mahalakshmi’s greatness is in her compassion. She has the power to forgive and uplift troubled souls. With pure devotion, anyone can receive her blessings and start a new life. This story teaches that faith in Mahalakshmi can end suffering and bring happiness.
3. Sri Mahalakshmi plays a key role in receiving the blessings of Sri Venkateswara. Mahalakshmi’s grace is like a path that leads to Venkateswara’s blessings. 
4. Sri Venkateswara’s greatness lies in his mercy and his power to transform lives. He removes Atmarama’s suffering, grants him wealth and wisdom, and brings him happiness. Sri Venkateswara is always ready to help his true devotees. 
5. Atmarama’s hardships end when he repents sincerely. Honest repentance opens the way for divine grace.
6. Even in hardship, faith leads to blessings and a better life. God transforms lives when approached with faith and devotion.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi