Shri Revati Dhyanam
Raivata-nandini, wife of Haladhara, king Kakudmi story, blue garment, saubhagya prayer
Vande Raivatanandini Gunavatim,
Saubhagyasampadinim.
Kantah Svantavimahinin Haladharah,
Premamritasvadinim.
Vidyutkotivibhaavani Shubhadhamin,
Nilashukairveshtitam.
Bhushampunjayutaam Sadaa Sunayanin,
Trailokyanistarinin.
About Shri Revati Dhyanam
Couplet 1, line 1: "Vande Raivatanandinim gunavatim saubhagyasampadinim." I bow to the daughter of Raivata, full of virtue, who gives the wealth of good fortune (saubhagya). Saubhagya means a happy, auspicious married life in the tradition.
Line 2: "Kantah svantavimohinim Haladharah premamritasvadinim." She is one who charms the mind of her beloved Haladhara (Balarama) and tastes the nectar of love. Some printed texts read this line slightly differently, so please take the gist: loving union with her husband.
Couplet 2, line 1: "Vidyutkotivibhavani shubhadhamin nilashukairveshtitam." She shines like crores of lightnings, is a home of all that is auspicious, and is wrapped in blue garments, matching Balarama''s blue cloth (see the Baladeva Dhyanam).
Line 2: "Bhushapunjayutam sada sunayanim trailokyanistarinim." She has a mass of ornaments, lovely eyes and is called the one who saves the three worlds. This is devotional praise of the goddess, as consort of an avatar of Sheshnag.
The message. A picture of a good marriage: virtue, shared love, grace and calm, with the wife honoured as a goddess. The benefits mentioned in tradition, such as good fortune and domestic harmony, are matters of faith and a devotional focus. A happy home also needs patience, honesty and talking things through. See also the Baladevashtakam, Balaram Chalisa and the Balarama Ji page.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Who is Revati?
Answer: Revati is the wife of Balarama, the daughter of King Raivata (Kakudmi). In the Bhagavata tradition, her father took her to Brahma to ask who would be a fitting husband, and Brahma pointed to Balarama.
Question: What is the meaning of Revati Dhyanam?
Answer: It bows to Revati, daughter of Raivata, full of virtue, giver of good fortune, who charms the heart of her husband Haladhara and tastes the nectar of love, who shines like crores of lightnings, is a home of auspiciousness, wears blue garments, has fine eyes and many ornaments, and is called the saviour of the three worlds.
Question: Who is Revati Dhyanam for?
Answer: It is read by devotees of Balarama, and by many couples who pray for harmony at home. Read it with the Baladeva Dhyanam.
Question: When should I read it?
Answer: In the morning puja, with Balarama stotras, and on Baldeo Chhath (Bhadrapada Shukla Shashthi). It can also be read at home on a couple''s anniversary.
Question: Is Revati Dhyanam the same as Revati Nakshatra?
Answer: No. Revati Nakshatra is a star group in the astrological tradition. The name is the same, but this verse is about the goddess Revati, Balarama''s wife.
Question: Will it bring marital happiness?
Answer: It is a prayer, as a matter of faith. A happy home also needs honesty, patience and talking things through, and serious trouble may need a counsellor.
