Vinayaki Matrika - Shakti of Lord Vinayaka

Goddess Vinayaki

In Hinduism, Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Maheshvari, Indrani, Kaumari, Varahi and Chamunda are revered as Sapta Matrika, the seven divine mothers. However, in some regions, Goddess Narasimhi is worshipped instead of Goddess Chamunda. In Nepal and its nearby regions, Ashta Matrika and Nava Matrika are worshipped, among which, Goddess Vinayaki is included as the eighth Matrika and the ninth Matrika respectively.

Vinayaki Matrika is the divine feminine power of Lord Ganesha and She resembles in both form and appearance with Ganesha. Just like Gajanana form or Lord Ganesha, Goddess Vinayaki is also depicted with the head of an elephant. Therefore, Goddess Vinayaki is also referred to as Gajamukhi, Vighneshvari and Gajanani.

Vinayaki Matrika Origin

In ancient times, a demon called Andhakasura possessed a boon similar to that of Raktabeeja, that his every blood drop would produce another Andhakasura as soon as it touched the ground. When a fierce battle ensued between Lord Shiva and Andhakasura, every drop of Andhakasura's blood was producing another Andhakasura. To counter this problem, Lord Shiva manifested Goddess Yogeshwari from the sacred fire of His divine mouth. Lord Shiva then requested Her to consume the blood of Andhakasura before it touches the ground.

Here also, Sapta Matrika appeared to help Goddess Yogeshwari accomplish the task. In the same sequence of the origin of Sapta Matrika, Goddess Vinayaki manifested as the divine feminine power of Lord Vinayaka. The account of Goddess Vinayaki's inclusion in the battle against Andhakasura is found in various sacred texts of Hinduism, including the Matsya Purana, Vishnudharmottara Purana and Vanadurga Upanishad.

Vinayaki Matrika Iconography

The form and appearance of Goddess Vinayaki resemble that of Lord Ganesha. She is depicted in Her Chaturbhuja Rupa, i.e., four-arm form. She dons red garments and is adorned with gold ornaments while sitting on a golden throne. In some other representations, She is shown mounted upon the Mushaka, i.e., a mouse. In Her two hands, She carries Ankusha, i.e., goad and a Pasha, i.e., noose while Her other two hands are raised in Varada Mudra and Abhaya Mudra.

Vinayaki Matrika Mantra

Dhyana Mantra -

Vinayaki Matrika Festivals

• Navaratri

Vinayaki Matrika Temples

• Chausath Yogini Temple, Morena, Madhya Pradesh