Bengali Version
Introduction
Among the ten fierce forms of the Divine Mother known as the Dashamahavidyas, Bagalamukhi holds a unique position as the Stambhana Shakti, the power to paralyze and still the enemies. The name "Bagalamukhi" is derived from "Bagala" (variant of Valga meaning bridle or rein) and Mukhi (face), symbolizing the Goddess who restrains and silences the foes.
She is worshipped for her immense power to control speech, paralyze evil forces, and protect devotees from adversaries, both internal and external.
Iconography and Symbolism
Bagalamukhi is depicted as a golden-complexioned Goddess, clad in yellow, seated on a golden throne in the middle of a lotus blooming in an infinite ocean. Her most iconic image shows her grabbing the tongue of a demon with her left hand and striking him with a cudgel (mace) in her right hand. This representation is a metaphor for silencing negative energies, enemies, and the ego.
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Yellow color: Symbol of divine energy (Pitambara Vidya), knowledge, and auspiciousness.
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Tongue-holding: Suppression of false speech, lies, gossip, and harmful intent.
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Mace: Destruction of evil, punishment of the wicked.
Mythological Origin
The legend of Bagalamukhi's manifestation is deeply rooted in cosmic disturbance and divine intervention.
The Story of Her Manifestation:
Once, a massive storm erupted in the universe, threatening to destroy the entire creation. The gods, unable to pacify the storm, approached Lord Vishnu. On his advice, they performed penance to Tripura Sundari, who manifested as Bagalamukhi from the Haridra Sarovar (Turmeric Ocean) on a dark night of the Chaturdashi.
Bagalamukhi stilled the storm with her power, symbolizing the Stambhana Shakti — the power to freeze, paralyze or neutralize motion.
The Demon Madan Myth:
Another well-known myth narrates that a demon named Madan gained the boon that whatever he spoke would come true. Misusing his power, he began creating chaos. The gods prayed to Bagalamukhi for intervention. She appeared and as Madan began to utter a destructive wish, she grabbed his tongue and silenced him forever, thus preserving cosmic balance.
Scriptural References
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Rudrayamala Tantra
Describes the secret rituals and attributes of Bagalamukhi and her powers of Stambhana, Vashikaran, and Uchchatan.
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Tantrasara (by Krishnananda Agamavagisha)
Gives a detailed exposition of Bagalamukhi’s mantra sadhana, rituals, and meditative practices.
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Kalika Purana
Mentions her power to silence enemies and still arguments; emphasizes her golden form and association with yellow turmeric.
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Bagalamukhi Sahasranama Stotra
Contains 1000 names of the Goddess that glorify her as Vak Stambhan Karini (controller of speech), Shatru Vinashini (destroyer of enemies), and Mantra Siddhi Dayini (giver of success in mantras).
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Shakta Pramoda & Shakta Ratnakara
Describe her place among the Dashamahavidyas and provide detailed hymns and practices.
Worship and Rituals
Bagalamukhi is primarily worshipped for:
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Victory in legal battles or debates
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Protection from slander and black magic
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Political or competitive dominance
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Neutralizing enemies without physical confrontation
Preferred Ritual Practices:
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Conducted on Amavasya, Chaturdashi, or during eclipses.
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Use of yellow dress, yellow asana, and turmeric rosary.
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Offerings include yellow sweets, gram, turmeric, and yellow flowers.
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Chanting of Bagalamukhi Mantra:
“ॐ ह्लीं बगलामुखि सर्वदुष्टानां वाचं मुखं पदं स्तम्भय जिव्हां कीलय बुद्धिं विनाशय ह्लीं ॐ स्वाहा”
Bagalamukhi in Today's World
In modern times, the energy of Bagalamukhi is more relevant than ever:
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Controlling Negative Speech: In the digital era, where misinformation and online abuse spread rapidly, invoking Bagalamukhi helps in silencing harmful speech.
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Legal & Corporate Success: She is revered by professionals facing litigation, defamation, or political rivalry.
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Mental Control: Bagalamukhi aids in stabilizing wavering thoughts, enhancing focus, and silencing inner doubts and fears.
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Protection from Occult Harm: Many believe her worship guards against black magic, evil eye, and psychic attacks.
Conclusion
Bagalamukhi, the Stambhana Shakti, is not merely a fierce deity but a divine protector who grants the power to restrain evil, control one’s own speech and mind, and emerge victorious in the face of deception and hostility. Her worship must always be approached with discipline, devotion, and moral responsibility, for her powers are as potent as they are protective.
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