God is aware of the needs of His devotees

CHENNAI, NOV. 29. One of the remarkable features of Hindu religion is the absence of any regimentation or rigidity in the matter of worship. Each devotee can choose to be at the service of any one of the numerous deities in the galaxy of gods and remain loyal and surrender to Him. But on that score no one should decry other gods. Thus full freedom is given to individuals to worship their ``personal gods'' without showing any hatred or uttering disparaging remarks. This option is compared to a person who can have any one of the items of food placed at his disposal, according to his taste. Should he visit other temples, he must show reverence, retaining the form of his own deity in his mind.

Saints of India have sung in praise of all Divine creations in their outpourings. The ultimate goal is one and there is only one Supreme Being. Their teachings point out that God is aware of the feelings of His devotees, will grant their prayers and bless them with prosperity. The devotees' duty is to place their pleas at His feet and urge Him to give them the moral strength to face problems. There is no need to be ashamed or to be afraid of wearing the caste marks or religious symbols. That will indeed create a sense of admiration and fervour amongst others and they too will be tempted to resort to religious practices.

One of our greatest saints, Arunagirinathar, who was totally dedicated to Lord Subramania (or Muruga) had adored other gods in his work, Thiruppugazh, but mentions about his personal deity at the end of each song. The glory of Vinayaka (Ganesa or Pillaiyar) has been described in many hymns, giving details of what offerings are to be made and how He should be honoured. The saint's hymns are set to extremely pleasing rhythmic patterns. Arunagirinathar has never claimed any distinction or achievement or credit for his works but says that they have been rendered by him by the grace of God (Subramania) who, seated within, had encouraged him to sing them. These verses are ``fragrant'' for their language, for poetic excellence and for the devotional content, said Sri Mathivannan in a lecture. The saint's Thiruppugazh thus spread the concept of unity in diversity. Of the nine major works of his, three commence with the word ``Thiru'', three with ``Kandar'' and three with ``Vel''. The poems contain Sanskrit words also. Hinduism does not want the devotee to knock at His doors or beg, but it will be given. God knows what transpires in everyone's mind.

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