Introduction to Chandradev
In Hinduism, Chandradev is considered a very important and calm deity. The moon is considered a symbol of mind, emotions, peace and coolness. In Vedic texts, Chandradev is also known as “Soma” and is considered the deity who provides mental balance and spiritual peace in life. In Hindu tradition, Chandradev is worshipped especially for mental peace, emotional stability and a happy life.
Chandradev is known by many sacred names like Rohininath, Soma, Atriputra and Anusuyanandan. In astrology, the moon is considered the karaka planet of the mind and its position in the horoscope has a special effect on the nature, thoughts and emotional life of a person. Since the moon is associated with the water element, it symbolizes peace, tenderness and positive energy in life.
Origin of Chandradev
The Puranas describe that once the three goddesses — Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Parvati — were proud of their chastity. The sage Narada told them about the great chastity of Anusuya, the wife of Maharishi Atri. Hearing this, the three goddesses requested Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh to test Anusuya.
The three gods arrived at Anusuya's ashram in the guise of a monk and demanded food, but put a strange condition that Anusuya should get naked and feed them. Anusuya, by the power of her chastity, transformed the three gods into infants and fed them with maternal affection. Finally, the three gods were pleased and took the incarnations of Dattatreya, Durvasa and Chandradev from Anusuya's womb as their own.
Thus, Chandradev appeared as a part of Lord Brahma. Chandradev is considered a symbol of coolness, compassion and mental peace.
Importance of Chandradev
The importance of Chandradev in Hinduism is immense. He is considered the controller of mind, emotions and mental power. According to belief, with the grace of Chandradev, a person gets peace, happiness, positive thoughts and self-strength.
The worship of Chandradev is especially done to remove mental stress, anxiety, sleep-related problems and emotional imbalance. Worshiping the moon on the day of Purnima is considered very auspicious. Many devotees also pray to get the grace of Chandradev by fasting on Mondays.
Chandradev's family
Chandradev's father is Maharishi Atri and mother is Devi Anusuya. Lord Dattatreya and Rishi Durvasa are known as his brothers. According to mythological stories, Chandradev was married to 27 daughters of Prajapati Daksha, who are considered to be the symbols of the 27 constellations.
Among all his wives, Rohini is considered the most beloved. Among the sons of Chandradev, Budha and Varchas are specially mentioned. Abhimanyu of the Mahabharata is also considered to be an incarnation of Chandraputra Varchas.
Description of Chandradev's form
Chandradev is depicted in a white and radiant form. He is usually depicted in a quadrangular form holding a lotus, a mace and an urn. One of his hands is in a blessing posture.
In many paintings, Chandradev is depicted riding a chariot, which is pulled by deer or white horses. His form is always considered calm, gentle and cool.
Importance of the Moon in Astrology
In Vedic astrology, the Moon is considered the cause of the mind and emotions. A strong position of the Moon in the horoscope provides a person with mental peace, imagination and emotional balance.
The Moon is the lord of Cancer and is considered the ruler of the constellations Rohini, Hasta and Shravan. If the Moon is weak in the horoscope, mental stress, insomnia, fear, anxiety and emotional problems can arise.
Mantras of Chandradev
॥ Om Soma Somay Namah ॥
॥ Om Shram Shree Shroon Sa Chandraya Namah ॥
॥ Om Amritangay Vidyamhe Kalarupaya Dhimahi . Tannah Somah Prachodayat ॥
Festivals associated with Chandradev
Festivals like Purnima, Sankat Chauth and Ganesh Chaturthi are especially associated with Chandradev. It is considered very auspicious to observe the moon and worship it on the day of Purnima.
Especially on the night of Sharad Purnima, the moon rays are believed to have medicinal and peaceful powers.
Famous Temples of Chandradev
The Thingalur Chandra Bhagwan Temple in Tamil Nadu is a very famous pilgrimage site of Chandradev. Here, devotees pray for the removal of Chandradosh and for mental peace.
Apart from that, special worship of Chandradev is performed in many ancient temples of South India, including the Chandrachudeshwar Temple.