Song Meaning

This invocation begins with a Sanskrit phrase, "Atandari invocation," setting a tone of deep reverence. The subsequent lines, "Yogena cittasya padena vacam / Malam sarirasya ca vaidyakena," translate to invoking Patanjali, the sage, for the purity of mind through yoga, clarity of speech, and the healing of the body through medicine. It establishes a spiritual and philosophical foundation, seeking purification and well-being through these ancient practices. The second stanza, "Yo pakarottam pravaram muninam / Patanjalim pranjaliranato smi," further solidifies this reverence, calling Patanjali the best among sages and expressing a bowed salutation. This direct address and humble posture underscore the profound respect the speaker holds for the figure and the wisdom they represent. The act of invocation is thus framed as a deeply personal and respectful offering. The final lines, "Abahu-purusakaram / Sankha-cakrasi-dharinam / Sahasra-sirsasam svetam / Pranamami Patanjalim," offer a visual description of Patanjali as a being with a human torso, holding a conch and discus, and crowned with a thousand white heads. This powerful imagery, blending human and divine attributes, elevates Patanjali to a cosmic level. The repeated "Pranamami Patanjalim" reinforces the act of bowing and adoration, concluding the invocation with a sense of awe and surrender to this multifaceted divine entity.