Ajapaad Rudra, or Ajapaadarudra, is an ancient Rudra Avatar mentioned in the Hindu religious text ‘Rigveda’. Rigveda is an ancient Sanskrit religious text written during the Vedic period. There are few verses in Rigveda regarding Ajapaad Rudra, but there are different stories in their detailed description.
There is a story among the ancient stories about Ajapad Rudra which is based on a verse of Rigveda. It is said that Ajapad Rudra had killed a demon with his power. More details about this can be found in different traditions and ancient stories.
There are a few verses in the Rigveda about Ajapad Rudra, in which his power, glory, and his sacred form are described. Similarly, the mantras of Rigveda have been translated and explained by different scholars, hence there may be slightly different descriptions of Ajapaad Rudra in the ancient texts.
In Hindu religion, Rudra is also worshiped in the form of Shiva. Rudra means “roar” or “howl,” and is related to nature’s nature of Ugra and fire. Rudra, who is angry and defeated, is also seen in a kind and benevolent form.
It is important to note that Ajapaad Rudra is prominently mentioned in the ancient texts, but in its detailed description there are different stories and various Shaktis, on the basis of which it is worshiped in different forms in the devotional tradition. .
Ajapada –ॐ श्रीं बें सौगः बलवर्धनाय बालेश्वराय रुद्राय पाद ॐ
OM Shrim Bam Sough Balavardhanaya Baleswaraya Rudraya Phut OM
Table of Content
Avatar Info
Ajapad Rudra Avatar is an important and mysterious form in Hindu mythology which is one of the unique Leelas of Lord Shiva. The story of this incarnation is prominently presented in various Puranas and Tantric literature.
According to the origin story of Ajapad Rudra Avatar, at one time there was conflict between the gods and demons due to which the churning of the ocean was planned. During the churning of the ocean, Halahal poison came out, which both the gods and demons were thinking of consuming. At the time of this crisis, Lord Shiva resolved to drink the poison and appeared in the Ajapada Rudra avatar.
Ajapada Rudra resolved to drink the poison so that he could protect the world. His decision comes as a result of the churning of the ocean and by drinking the poison, the color of his body turns blue, due to which he is called Neelkanth.
After Ajapad Rudra drank the poison, his body temperature increased due to which he was called Neelkanth. With devotion and reverence towards this incarnation, his body started becoming noticeably hot. The change in his belief caused his body to develop extreme temperatures, and this led to him being called Neelkantha. Thus, Ajpada Rudra, due to the consumption of poison, transformed his body into the form of Neelkantha.As a result, this unique form of Lord Shiva remains in special worship even today, blessing his devotees with the attainment of peace and well-being.
Incarnation
Ajapaad Rudra is an incarnation of Lord Shiva with a unique significance in Hindu mythology. According to the legends, Ajapaad Rudra took this form to protect the universe and uphold righteousness. The term “Ajapaad” is derived from two Sanskrit words, where “Aja” means goat and “Paad” means feet. It is said that Ajapaad Rudra is depicted with goat-like feet.
The story behind Ajapaad Rudra’s incarnation involves a sage named Dadhichi. In one version of the tale, Dadhichi performed intense penance, seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings. Pleased with his devotion, Shiva granted him a boon, and Dadhichi asked for the well-being and protection of all living beings. To fulfill this wish, Lord Shiva took the form of Ajapaad Rudra.
Ajapaad Rudra is often associated with qualities of ferocity and divine protection. Devotees believe that worshiping this form of Lord Shiva brings strength, courage, and blessings for overcoming challenges. The unique depiction of goat-like feet adds a distinctive aspect to this manifestation of Shiva, symbolizing the divine merging with the earthly.
In summary, Ajapaad Rudra Avatar represents Lord Shiva’s compassionate response to the prayers of the sage Dadhichi, embodying the divine energy for the welfare and safeguarding of all creation. The symbolism and stories associated with this incarnation enrich the diverse tapestry of Lord Shiva’s manifestations in Hindu theology.
Place of Avatar
The Ajapaad Rudra Avatar, also known as Ajaikapat, is associated with a significant event in Hindu mythology. According to the legends, during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) by the Devas (celestial beings) and Asuras (demons), a deadly poison named Halahala emerged from the ocean depths. To protect the universe from the destructive effects of this poison, Lord Shiva graciously consumed it. However, to prevent the poison from reaching his stomach and causing harm, Shiva held it in his throat, turning his throat blue.
The place associated with the Ajapaad Rudra Avatar is believed to be Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located near the holy town of Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, India. This sacred temple is situated amidst the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas. Pilgrims visit Neelkanth Mahadev to pay homage to Lord Shiva and witness the divine blue throat, a symbol of Shiva’s selfless sacrifice for the welfare of the cosmos. The temple holds immense spiritual significance, attracting devotees and seekers from far and wide who seek blessings and divine grace from Lord Shiva in his Ajapaad Rudra manifestation.
Purpose
Ajapaad Rudra Avatar, as mentioned in Hindu mythology, is an incarnation of Lord Shiva with a specific purpose and significance. The story behind Ajapaad Rudra Avatar revolves around a king named Ajapaala, who was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva.
King Ajapaala faced a severe drought in his kingdom, leading to a scarcity of resources and immense suffering among his subjects. In desperation, the king performed intense penance and fervently prayed to Lord Shiva for relief and prosperity. Pleased with Ajapaala’s devotion and penance, Lord Shiva manifested as Ajapaad Rudra to answer his prayers.
The primary purpose of Ajapaad Rudra Avatar was to alleviate the suffering of King Ajapaala and his people. Lord Shiva, in this compassionate form, not only granted relief from the drought but also bestowed blessings upon the kingdom, ensuring its prosperity and well-being.
Ajapaad Rudra Avatar exemplifies Lord Shiva’s responsiveness to the sincere prayers of his devotees and his willingness to manifest in specific forms to address their needs. It emphasizes the compassionate nature of Lord Shiva and the divine intervention that takes place in response to genuine devotion and penance. The story serves as a reminder of the boundless grace and benevolence of Lord Shiva towards his devotees in times of distress.
