Daijiworld Media Network - Srisailam (SP)

Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh), Mar 11: A Muslim youth, Mohammad Mastan, who got attracted to the culture and philosophy of Shaivite traditions, got introduced into that culture through Jagadguru Dr Channasiddarama Panditharadhya Bhagawatpada.

Mohammad is a native of Vijayawada. He runs a herbal business in Mumbai. For long he had a special regard for Shaivite culture. He visited Srisailam several times but could not meet the Jagadguru as he was busy visiting different parts of the state. This time, he visited Srisailam on coming to know that the Jagadguru would be available during the Shivaratri. He came, met Jagadguru and explained that he wanted to get Ishta Linaa from him. The Jagadguru, after making sure that he was mentally prepared to follow the rules and regulations to be followed after being introduced into the culture, gave him the Linga Deeksha.

In order to nullify the ill-effects of the belief systems followed so far, several procedures were organized, after which the Linga was presented and he was given the hymn (Mantra). Mohammad was asked to wear the Ishta Linga always, offer puja to it every day, and chant the Panchakshari Mantra at least 108 times every day, never to touch non-vegetarian food and liquor and not to indulge in vices. Mohammad, after officially changing his faith, paid obeisance to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga and Goddess Bhramarambha at Srisailam.