Mars: Power origin and the Profound Epic of the Ancient Story

On the sacred soil of Ujjain, history, devotion and divine presence converge. From this revered land, the story of the origin of Mars finds a unique place in Indian tradition. As described in the Avantika section of the Skanda Purana, the narrative of Mars as commander among the planets reveals not only his emergence, glory and spiritual significance but also instills faith and reassurance in the hearts of devotees.

The Birth of Mars: A Saga Extending from Ujjain to the Cosmos

Once, in the ancient city of Ujjayini (present-day Ujjain), a demon named Andhaka ruled over his kingdom. His son, Kanaka Danava, was renowned far and wide for his strength and valor. One day, Kanaka Danava, brimming with pride and might, challenged Indra, king of the gods, to battle. In this clash of strength and ego, Indra engaged fiercely and after a brutal struggle, Kanaka Danava fell.

Frightened by these events and fearing the power of Andhakasura, Indra sought refuge with Lord Shiva at Kailash. Indra shared his fears and troubles with Lord Chandrashekhara, earnestly praying for protection. Compassionate Shiva offered assurance to the seeker and granted Indra the boon of fearlessness against Andhakasura.

After this, Shiva himself prepared for battle against the mighty demon. The conflict that followed was so intense and overwhelming that its reverberations were felt throughout the three worlds. During this epic battle, a drop of sweat from Lord Shiva’s brow, born from exhaustion and the fervor of combat, fell to earth. From this sacred drop arose a radiant child, glowing red like fire and brimming with formidable energy, who was later known by various names: Mangala, Angaraka, Raktaksha and Mahadeva Putra.

Brahma, Vishnu, other deities and the learned Brahmins praised Mangala. He was honored with a place among the planets. At that very site, Lord Brahma established a Shivlinga named Mangaleshwar, known today as the famous Mangalnath Temple in Ujjain. This place is revered as the birthplace and principal seat of Mars’ power.

The Divinity of Mars and His Rise as Commander of the Planets

From childhood itself, the brilliance of Mars was so powerful that both gods and humans marveled at his aura and strength. His presence stirred the worlds. Then Lord Shiva lovingly embraced Mars, saying, "Dear Child, you are born of my Rajas nature. For the welfare of the worlds, you shall now become commander of the planets, reside in Avantika (Ujjain) and bring prosperity to all beings."

This is why the Mangalnath Temple in Ujjain holds special significance for seeking relief from Manglik dosha and for enhancing auspicious qualities. The scriptures decree that anyone who worships Mars here with proper rituals is freed from life’s obstacles, planetary afflictions or Manglik dosha and attains balance and harmony.

Mars: The Innate Influence on Life and Destiny

In Vedic astrology, Mars is not just a red planet but is established as the very source of energy, courage, leadership, self-strength and valor. When Mars occupies a favorable position, it bestows a person with remarkable vitality and confidence, along with the strength to find pathways through adversity. However, when the placement is inauspicious, it may lead to

• Increased tendency for family discord and conflicts
• Tension or differences of opinion within marital life and relationships
• Health-related challenges
• Insecurity and loss in profession or business
• Sudden misfortunes or accidents

Jyotish affirms that the position and period of Mars, along with the configurations and lords of other planets, determine the flow of energies and direction in human life. In such conditions, it is the guidance of learned astrologers and the right spiritual remedies that illuminate the proper path.

Worship and Rituals of Mars: Means to Victory, Peace and Welfare

The ‘Bhaat Poojan’ performed at Mangalnath Temple stands out as a unique and straightforward remedy for pacifying Manglik dosha. Those affected by this planetary condition or who experience obstacles in marriage, are specifically advised to perform this ritual. The worship of Mars, with dedicated garlands or yantras and recitation of the following mantras, grants happiness, prosperity, health and freedom from adversity.

Mantras for Pacifying Mars (including Verses and Hymns)

Principal Seed Mantra
Om kram krim kroum sah bhaumaya namah

Key Verses from the Mangal Stotra (with translation and transliteration):

Mangalo bhumiputraśca ṛṇahartā dhanapradaḥ
Sthirāsano mahākāyaḥ sarvakarmāvarodhakaḥ
Lohito lohitākṣaśca sāmagānāṁ kṛpākaraḥ
Dharātmajaḥ kujo bhaumo bhūtido bhūminandanaḥ
Aṅgārako yamaścaiva sarvarogāpahārakaḥ
Vṛṣṭe kartā'pa-hartā ca sarvakāmaphalapradaḥ
Etāni kujanāmāni nityaṁ yaḥ śraddhayā paṭhet
Ṛṇaṁ na jāyate tasya dhanaṁ śīghram avāpnuyāt
Dharanī garbhasambhūtaṁ vidyutkānti-samaprabham
Kumāraṁ śaktihastaṁ ca maṅgalaṁ praṇamāmyaham

English Meaning: Mangala, son of the earth, remover of debts, giver of wealth
One who sits firmly and is mighty, remover of all obstructions in action
Red and red-eyed, bestower of compassion among songs of the Sama Veda
Born of the earth, called Kuja and Bhauma, giver of prosperity, joy of the earth
Known as Angaraka and Yama, remover of all ailments
Who brings forth and stops rain, grants fulfillment of all desires
Whoever recites these names of Kuja daily with faith
Will not incur debts, wealth will be gained quickly
Born from the womb of the earth, shining with the glow of lightning
Salutations to Mangala, the youthful one, holding power in his hand

(Regular recitation of all twelve shlokas dispels debt, disease, enemies, poverty and fear, ensuring happiness and wealth.)

The Meaning of Mars’ Symbols, Worship and Devotion

The rituals, fasting, mantras and traditions of the Mangalnath Temple are regarded as effective, not only in scripture but in the experiences of countless devotees. The grace of Mars and his worship are invoked at the start of every significant action, marriage, new home, vehicle or any venture entailing risk, ensuring success, energy, balance and triumph in life.

The historic site in Ujjain, linked to the origin of Mars, remains a prime source of inspiration and faith to this day. Worship, observance and pacification of Mars not only bring positivity from a spiritual view but offer practical support in life’s occasions. The tale is a reminder, not just of popular belief but of the summit of inner strength, duty and dedication, from which true benefit flows through sincere practice and mindful living.