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Lakshmi Hayagriva

Hayagriva in Hinduism is considered to be an incarnation of Vishnu. Haya means Horse and Griva means Neck. The horse faced form of Vishnu is the god of Gnana (knowledge) and Prosperity. One who prays Hayagriva will be blessed with knowledge and wisdom.

Legend has it that during the creation, the demons Madhu and Kaitabha stole the Vedas from Brahma and Vishnu took the Hayagriva form to recover the Vedas from the demons. Another legend says, Vishnu compiled the Vedas in the Hayagriva form and that the Hayagriva Avatara precedes the Matsya Avatara wherein he recovered the stolen Vedas from the demons Madhu and Kaitabha.

There are believed to be 108 forms of Hayagriva. Hayagriva is the presiding deity of Parakala Mutt, Ahobila Mutt and Andavan Ashram.

The very first stothram on Lakshmi Hayagriva is ==> Gnanananda Mayam Devam Nirmala Spatikakruthim Aadharam Sarvavidyanam Hayagrivam upasmahe.

Hayagriva is worshipped in Tibet by those who own horses, because he is believed to frighten away demons by powerfully neighing (characteristic sound of a horse).

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