KAMADHENU O dear mind, if you want the Parijata tree and also require the Kamadhenu cow bedecking your house, then engage yourself in the service of the Perfect Guru….. (Maru M. 5, p. 1078) Singing the praises of the Lord is the Kamadhenu cow. (Gauri Sukhmani M. 5, p. 265) Kamadhenu is the name of the wish-fulfilling cow. She rose from the milk-ocean, when it was churned. It belonged to sage Vasishtha and also sage Jamadagni. Whereas she fulfilled all the wishes, she also created a host of warriors, who aided Vasishtha against Kartavirya.
When she was tåken away by the king Kartavirya from the hermitage of Jamadagni by force, it was Parashurama, who fought with the king and brought back the cow. Surabhi, Nandini and Shabala are said to be her different names. The Sikh Gurus considered the Name of the Lord as the Kamadhenu.
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh (ed), Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
Kamadhenu, often referred to as the wish-fulfilling cow, is a divine and sacred figure in Hindu mythology. She symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and the nurturing aspects of the Earth. Kamadhenu is regarded as the mother of all cows and is venerated for her ability to grant any wish or desire.
Key Aspects of Kamadhenu:
Origins:
- Kamadhenu is said to have emerged during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) by the gods and demons, an event that brought forth many celestial treasures.
- She is often described as a manifestation of celestial abundance and is considered a gift to humanity.
Appearance:
- Kamadhenu is usually depicted as a cow with a radiant and divine aura. She sometimes possesses wings and a human-like face, symbolizing her otherworldly origin.
- Her body is said to contain the forms of various deities, highlighting her sacred nature.
Mythological Role:
- Kamadhenu is closely associated with Sage Vashishta, one of the Saptarishis (Seven Great Sages). She resided in his hermitage and provided him with all necessities, aiding his spiritual endeavors.
- In one famous tale, King Vishwamitra attempted to take Kamadhenu by force from Sage Vashishta, leading to a confrontation that demonstrated her miraculous powers.
Symbolism:
- Kamadhenu represents Dharma (righteousness) and nurturance, as she provides for both material and spiritual needs.
- Cows in Hindu culture are considered sacred largely because of their connection to Kamadhenu.
Cultural Significance:
- Worship of Kamadhenu is tied to the reverence of cows in Hinduism, which are often called “Gau Mata” (Mother Cow).
- Her stories emphasize the importance of kindness, generosity, and balance in life.
Kamadhenu holds a unique place in Hindu mythology as a divine symbol of endless generosity and the sustenance of life.
