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Kamadhenu: The Wish Fulfilling Divine Mother
Kamadhenu, also known as Surabhi is the divine bovine-goddess and the mother of all cows in Hinduism. She is the sacred cow who emerged from the ocean of milk (kshira-sagar) at the time of samudra manthan – the churning of ocean – by suras (gods) and asuras (demons), lives in swarga-loka (heaven) and grants all wishes and desires.
Originally presented to the seven sages by the Devas, Kamadhenu came into the possession of Sage Vasishta in due course.
Kamadhenu is also well-known through her other five forms:
Nanda
Sunanda
Surabhi
Susheela and
Sumana
Kamadhenu’s complexion is like the white clouds and every part of her body has a religious significance. Her four legs symbolize the four Vedas, and teats the four Purusharthas. Her horns symbolize the gods, face symbolize the sun and the moon, shoulders Agni (the god of fire), and legs the Himalayas.
Brahma, the Creator is her back, while Vishnu is her throat. To the right, a man is seen as protecting the cow from being slaughtered. She is described as sometimes taking on an anthropomorphic form, with a human head, a cow’s body, a peacock’s tail, and the wings of a parrot.
As described in Ramayana:
Surabhi is the daughter of Sage Kashyapa and his wife Krodhavasha, the daughter of Daksha. Her daughters Rohini and Gandharvi are the mothers of cattle and horses respectively. Still, it is Surabhi who is described as the mother of all cows in the text.
However, in the Puranas, such as Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana, Surabhi is described as the daughter of Daksha and the wife of Kashyapa, as well as the mother of cows and buffaloes.
As described in Matsya Purana:
Surabhi is described as the consort of Brahma and their union produced the cow Yogishvari, the eleven Rudras, lower animals, goats, swans and high class drugs. She is then described as the mother of cows and quadrupeds.
In another instance, she is described as a daughter of Daksha, wife of Kashyapa and the mother of cows. The Harivamsa, an appendix of the Mahabharata, calls Surabhi the mother of Amrita (ambrosia), Brahmins, cows and Rudras.
As described in Bhagavad Gita:
The Bhagavad Gita, a discourse by the Krishna in the Mahabharata, twice refers to Kamadhenu as Kamadhuk.
In verse 3.10, Krishna makes a reference to Kamadhuk while conveying that for doing one’s duty, one would get the milk of one’s desires. In verse 10.28, when Krishna declares to the source of the universe, he proclaims that among cows, he is Kamadhuk.
The cow symbolizes Dharma itself.
Kamadhenu is said to have stood steadily upon the earth with her four feet during the Satya yuga (world’s first age of truth), upon three feet during the Treta yuga (the second stage of less than perfection), upon two feet during the Dwapara yuga (the third stage of dwindling and disappearing perfection) and only on one leg during Kali yuga (the fourth and current age of decadence).
“Mother Cow is in many ways better than the mother who gave us birth. Our mother gives us milk for a couple of years and then expects us to serve her when we grow up. Mother cow expects from us nothing but grass and grain. Our mother often falls ill and expects service from us. Mother cow rarely falls ill. Here is an unbroken record of service which does not end with her death. Our mother, when she dies, means expenses of burial or cremation. Mother cow is as useful dead as when she is alive. We can make use of every part of her body-her flesh, her bones, her intestines, her horns and her skin. Well, I say this not to disparage the mother who gives us birth, but in order to show you the substantial reasons for my worshipping the cow”
These are the words of Mahatma Gandhiji. There is a high spirit of reverence for cows across the Hindu society. This can be traced back to the fact that early man was pastoral and his livelihood was based on domestic animals such as cows and goats. The Rig-Veda honors the cow as a sacred animal in many of its verses too. The usage of dairy products such as ghee – clarified butter, in performing sacred yajnas and pujas stands as testimony to the kind of worship that cows received during the Vedic age. Kamadhenu or surabhi is the sacred bovine goddess for Hindus. She is said to be a form of Shakthi. All the gods are said to reside in kamadhenu which gives its owner all prosperity and wealth. Her four legs are the scriptural Vedas; her horns are the triune gods Brahma (tip), Vishnu (middle) and Shiva (base); her eyes are the sun and moon gods, her shoulders the fire-god Agni and the wind-god Vayu and her legs the Himalayas. It is also mentioned that there are 33 crores of devathas are situated at various parts of the body of a cow. So worshiping a cow confers to worship of 33 crores of devas.
The divinity of cows is mentioned in one of the earliest sacred texts in Hindu history, the Rig-Veda. The Rig-Veda confers the suffix matha to five beings on earth because of the high reverence with which they should be treated.
1) Deha-Maatha (one’s own mother who gave birth to your body)
2) Go-maatha (Cow)
3) Bhu-maatha (The earth)
4) Jagan-maatha (Goddess Shakti, the creator of this world)
5) Veda-maatha (The Vedas)
Even today a house with a cow is considered a prosperous one because a cow provides not just for her calf but to all those who surround her.
Kamadhenu – The Divine One
Kamadhenu – Go Mata
Kamadhenu – The Divine Wish Fulfilling Cow
Kamadhenu, the ancestor of all cows is regarded as a divine wish fulfilling cow. It is said in the Vedas that all Gods, Goddess, including the Trinity has their abode in the cow. It brings good fortune to those who worship the cow. Also worshiping mother Kamadhenu or Cow helps in cleansing them of their sins committed in this birth and the previous one. Many gems, animal and gods appeared when the Gods and Demons churned the milky ocean. One such animal is Kamadhenu. This divine cow has the capacity to fulfill the very thought of a desire. There are lots of legends about the origin of Kamadhenu. One of them is that kamadhenu rose from the ocean when the asuras and devas churned the ocean to get amritha. There is also another story that says that brahma drank too much of amritha and when he belched surabhi was born from his breath. According to Krishna purana, Krishna and radha were in each other’s company in the garden when they suddenly thirsted for a drink. That is when Krishna created the cow kamadhenu to quench their thirst. It is also legend that when they were drinking milk the pot fell down and broke which gave birth to the cosmic milk ocean kshirasagara. From kamadhenu many cows emerged which were given to the gopas and gopikas as gifts.
There are no temples for Kamadhenu separately but in almost every temple there is a Goshala which takes care of a few in-house cows and performs arathis and pujas on special occasions chanting Cow Mantras. Feeding of cows is said to be a good deed in Hinduism.
The western society might consider them as nothing but walking ham burgers but in a Hindu society, cows are given much honor. Even amidst the chaos of city life one can spot cows here and there. Hindus volunteer to feed them and protect them. Even temples give shelter and protect stray cows.
Cows are a constant presence in our society. We are dependent on them for milk ghee butter and even the cow’s urine is considered to be very sacred in Hinduism. In all auspicious functions cow’s urine is sprayed in the surroundings. There are still houses in the villages of India that use cow dung as the disinfectant to clean their houses. The uses of cow are manifold; at every point in its life it serves many purposes for mankind. Right from food articles such as milk butter ghee, for agricultural purpose also its urine and dung are used as effective disinfectants.
The Rig Veda (4.28.1; 6) reads. “The cows have come and have brought us good fortune. In our stalls, contented, may they stay! May they bring forth calves for us, many-colored, giving milk for Indra each day. You make, O cows, the thin man sleek; to the unlovely you bring beauty. Rejoice our homestead with pleasant lowing. In our assemblies we laud your vigour.” This speaks of the necessity of cow and milk in the ancient society.
While some scholars may argue that early Hindu society was a beef eating one. In The evolved one today, most might not harm cows and bulls. Krishna one of the most venerated gods in Hinduism is brought up in a pastoral community and he is often portrayed as the patron of cows. One of his names Govinda literally translates to one who satisfies the cows.
The importance of milk and dairy products in our daily lives is what puts cows on such a high pedestal. The cow is a symbol of the Earth, the nourisher, the ever-giving soul. The cow is so generous, taking nothing but water, grass and grain. It gives and gives and gives of its milk, it does not feed its calf well but it feeds mankind right from little children to old people. One can even call the cow a surrogate mother for all of us. Cow’s milk is also highly nutritious and energy rich.
All our ancestors were a typical pastoral community and that could have been the reason why we hold cattle with such high regard. But it is our duty to protect all animals not just cows. Cow slaughter has been banned in a few stated as of now. It was Gandhiji’s vision that all cows should be protected and taken care of in goshalas. He considered cow protection the greatest virtue to come out of Hinduism. Cows are the most docile un-animalistic animals on earth. They are sensitive, generous, gentle creatures nothing short of what a human can be but they are more useful than most human beings are to the society.
Kamadhenu: The Divine Cow of Abundance and Prosperity
Kamadhenu, also known as Surabhi is a divine cow in Hindu mythology that holds a significant place in the hearts of Hindus worldwide. The word ‘Kamadhenu’ is derived from two Sanskrit words, ‘Kama’ meaning desire and ‘Dhenu’ meaning cow. Hence, Kamadhenu means a cow that fulfills all the desires of the owner. It is believed that Kamadhenu has the power to grant any wish and fulfill all the desires of a person. Kamdhenu is not just a cow, but an embodiment of blessings, abundance, and prosperity. In this essay, we will explore the legends related to Kamadhenu and understand why it is revered in Hindu culture.
Different Names Of Kamadhenu
Kamadhenu is a Hindu deity that is often called Surabhi, meaning “the Fragrant One” or “the One with the Pleasing Smell”. This name is thought to be inspired by the typical smell associated with cows. Kamadhenu is also known as Matrika, which translates to “Mother” or “Example-Setter”. Other names for Kamadhenu include Sabala, meaning “Spotted One”, and Kapila, meaning “Red One”.
The Origin of Kamdhenu
There is no definitive account of the origin of Kamadhenu, but various scriptures offer differing versions of the story. However, it is widely believed that Kamadhenu, the divine cow, originated from the Samudra Manthan, the churning of the Cosmic Ocean, which occurred when the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) were trying to obtain the nectar of immortality. Kamadhenu was gifted to the Saptarishis, the seven great sages, and was instructed by Brahma to provide milk and ghee for sacred Vedic Yajnas (sacrificial rituals).
Abodes of Kamadhenu
Kamadhenu is said to reside in various abodes, including the heavens, the earth, and the underworld. In some stories, she is said to live in the divine city of Amravati, while in others, she is said to reside in the forest of Naimisharanya.
Kamadhenu in Different Scriptures
According to the Anushasana Parva, Kamadhenu is said to be the daughter of Daksha, the God who created the world. Surabhi, on the other hand, is said to have been produced from the belch of Prajapati Daksha, after he consumed the Amrita or Nectar of Immortality, which was obtained during the churning of the ocean of milk. Over time, Surabhi gave birth to several golden cows, collectively known as Kapila cows, which were considered to be the mothers of the world. Some versions of the story suggest that Lord Brahma drank too much of the Amrita and regurgitated a portion of it, from which Surabhi emerged.
According to the Valmiki Ramayana, Surabhi is believed to be the daughter of sage Kashyapa and Krodhavasa, who was the daughter of Daksha. However, in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana (Srimad Bhagavatam), Surabhi is mentioned as the daughter of Daksha and the wife of sage Kashyapa. She is also regarded as the mother of cows and buffalos.
As per the Matsya Purana, Surabhi is believed to be the consort of Brahma and the mother of various species of animals, including the cow Yogishwari, eleven Rudras, goats, and swans. She is commonly referred to as the mother of all quadrupeds. Another version states that Surabhi is the mother of Amrita, cows, Brahmins, and the Rudras.
Some other scriptures present a different version of the story, according to which the cow Kamadhenu was kept by either or both of the sages Jamadagni and Vasishtha in their hermitage for some time. During this period, there were kings who attempted to steal the cow from the sages but were punished severely by Kamadhenu herself. In this version, Kamadhenu played a significant role in the hermitage, providing milk and milk products for the sages. She also possessed the power to create fierce warriors to defend them.
The cow Nandini is mentioned as Kamadhenu in the Mahabharata and the Devi Bhagavata Purana, and is sometimes considered to be the same as Kamdhenu. However, in some instances, Nandini is referred to as the daughter of Surabhi-Kamadhenu. According to the Raghuvamsa of Kalidasa, King Dilip, an ancestor of Lord Rama, once failed to pay his respects to Kamdhenu when he met her. As a result, Kamdhenu cursed him to be childless for the rest of his life. Sage Vasishtha, Dilip’s guru, advised him to propitiate Nandini, Kamadhenu’s daughter. Dilip and his wife served Nandini, and in turn, she nullified the curse of her mother and blessed them with a son named Raghu.
As per the Devi Bhagavata Purana, Krishna and Radha were spending time together when they became thirsty. To quench their thirst, Krishna created a cow named Surabhi and a calf named Manoratha from the left side of his body. He then milked the cow and collected the milk in a pot. Unfortunately, the pot slipped and broke, spilling the milk onto the ground, where it became the Kshirasagara, the Ocean of Milk. Surprisingly, numerous cows emerged from the spilled milk, and Krishna gifted them to his cowboy-friends, the Gopas. In gratitude, Krishna declared that Surabhi would be revered as the symbol of prosperity and would be worshipped during Diwali.
Kamadhenu and Sage Vashishtha
Another story involving Kamadhenu is that of her association with the sage Vashishtha. It is said that Vashishtha owned Kamdhenu, and he used her milk to perform Yajnas and other rituals. Kamadhenu was also said to be able to provide endless milk, which made her a symbol of abundance and prosperity.
Kamadhenu and Sage Jamadagni
Kamadhenu became a part of another story when she was gifted to the sage Jamadagni by Vashistha. Jamadagni was a renowned sage and was known for his meditation and devotion to Lord Shiva. Kamadhenu became an integral part of Jamadagni’s ashram and was treated with great respect and care.
One day, the king of the region, Kartavirya Arjuna, visited Jamadagni’s ashram and was impressed by Kamadhenu abilities. He asked Jamadagni to give him the cow, but the sage refused. Angered by the refusal, Kartavirya Arjuna decided to take Kamdhenu by force. He killed Jamadagni and took Kamadhenu away.
Kamdhenu and Lord Dattatreya
Lord Dattatreya is often depicted in Indian mythology as being accompanied by a cow, which is commonly identified as Kamadhenu. Sometimes, Dattatreya is shown holding the Divine Cow in one of his hands.
Kamdhenu as the Protector of Brahmins
In Hindu mythology, Kamdhenu is considered to be the protector of Brahmins, the priestly class. She is believed to provide them with all their needs and desires, and it is said that anyone who harms a Brahmin will incur her wrath.
The Curse of Kamadhenu
In the ancient text called Raghuvamsa, written by Kalidasa, it is said that a king named Dilip, who was an ancestor of Lord Rama, once encountered Kamadhenu, a sacred cow believed to grant wishes. However, Dilip neglected to pay his respects to her, which angered Kamadhenu. As a result, she cursed Dilip, saying that he would never have any children in his life.
Symbolism of Kamadhenu
In Hinduism, Kamadhenu is considered the ultimate symbol of abundance and prosperity, almost as if she were a goddess herself. She is often associated with Prithvi, or Mother Earth, who is sometimes referred to as a peaceful and unwavering cow. For Hindus, the cow represents many positive qualities such as purity, fertility, the capacity to provide for human life, and a selfless and giving nature.
According to Hindu beliefs, the Kamadhenu cow has four legs that symbolize the four Vedas, which are as unyielding as the mighty Himalayas. Her horns represent the three main gods of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva, with each deity assigned to a specific part of the horn. The sun and moon gods are said to reside in her eyes, while the god of fire and the god of wind are believed to be present in her shoulders. In essence, Kamadhenu is believed to embody all the major deities within her being, which is why she is often depicted in portraits as such. Another representation of Kamadhenu, albeit less common, is as a white Zebu cow with a woman’s head adorned with a crown, along with eagle wings and a peacock’s tail. This form of Kamadhenu can also be seen in modern-day artwork.
In Hinduism, Kamadhenu is often associated with the highest priestly class of Brahmins, including sages, and is seen as a symbol of their wealth, both material and spiritual. She also embodies the Pancha Bhoota or the Five Elements.
Cow’s milk and its derivatives, especially clarified butter or ghee, play a crucial role in Vedic Yajnas, which are ritualistic offerings made by Brahmin priests. For this reason, Kamadhenu is sometimes referred to as Homadhenu, as cows are considered the source from which oblations are drawn and offered during the Yajna or Homa, which involves a fire ritual. As a result, cows are regarded as sacred and take on a revered status in Hindu tradition.
Worship Of Kamadhenu
Kamadhenu is a goddess in Hinduism who is not worshipped as an independent deity, and there are no temples exclusively dedicated to her. Instead, Hindus believe that the best way to show respect to Kamadhenu is by venerating and respecting all cows in general.
The cow and cowdung are very significant in Hinduism. Cows are revered and worshipped by Hindus, and they are often fed outside temples, particularly on Fridays and during special occasions. In the eyes of pious Hindus worldwide, all cows are seen as incarnations of Kamadhenu.
Kamadhenu Tantra
According to Tantra Shastra, Kamadhenu, the wish-fulfilling cow, is considered a form of Goddess Saraswati. This deity presides over knowledge, speech, words, eloquence, music, and the arts. She is also one of the Shaktis and the divine consort of Brahma.
The Kamadhenu Tantra is a question-answer dialogue between Goddess Parvati (Shakti) and Lord Shiva. Parvati inquires about the true significance of the 50 letters of the Sanskrit alphabet and their relationship with the tattvas.
Kamdhenu Stotra
Namo Devyai Maha Devyai
Surabhyai Cha Namo Namah|
Gavam Bheeja Swaroopaaya
Namaste Jagad Ambike||
[Meaning: “Salutations to the great goddess Devi, who is also known as Surabhi. Salutations again and again to the goddess who is the source of all cattle. Salutations to the goddess who is the mother of the universe.”]
The story of ‘Kamadhenu’
In Hinduism, the role of Cow is highly hallowed. According to ancient Hindu scriptures, Kamadhenu is considered as the mother of all cows, or Gou Mata. The word Kamadhenu originated from Sanskrit, kama meaning wish and dhenu meaning yielding or giving milk. Hence she is considered as the prodigious cow who fulfills all the desires to the one who worships her.
Origin of Kamadhenu
There are many stories relating to the birth of Kamadhenu according to different scriptures. In one of the stories, it is believed that she was born during the time of Samudra Manthana which is the great churning of ocean by the Gods and demons. She emerged from the ksheera-sagara, the ocean of milk and was presented to the Saptha Rishis. As per the orders given by Brahma, the milk and its products given by Kamadhenu should be used in sacred rituals. Kamadhenu is known through other forms: Nanda, Sunanda, Surabhi, Susheela and Sumana.
There is another story relating to the birth of Kamadhenu in Anushasana Parva. According to that, Kamadhenu was the daughter of Daksha, the Prajapati who is known as the creator of the world. Kamadhenu was brought to existence after Daksha drank the Amrita (elixir) which rose from Samudra Manthana.
Symbolism through Iconography
It is believed that all gods reside in the body of Kamadhenu. The four legs of this Mother Cow symbolizes the four Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sama, Atharvana). They are considered to be as mighty as the Himalayas. Her horns have the Trimurthis with Brahma residing at the tip of the horn, Vishnu in the middle and Shiva at the base. In her eyes reside the Sun and Moon gods. Agni, the God of Fire, and Vayu, the God of Wind, reside in her shoulders. Therefore, all that is sacred can be found in the cow.
Kamadhenu symbolizes Dharma, the righteous way of the living. She is said to have stood on the earth with four feet during Satyayuga, where Dharma was practiced by everyone to the fullest. As time progressed, Dharma started fading away and to symbolize that she stood on three feet during Tretayuga, on two feet during Dwaparayuga and only on one leg during Kaliyuga.
Her milk sustains the life of many species. Her dung is used as manure and also as fuel. Her urine is used as a medicine to lot of ailments. Even after she dies, her skin provides us warmth and protection through clothing. Through all this, we can clearly infer that Cow is a mother and one of the greatest gift to the mankind. Let us continue to protect and respect the cows.
Kamdhenu is the divine cow mentioned in Hinduism. It has the power to fulfill all wishes. The story of origin of Kamdhenu in Hindu religion is associated with the churning of ocean or Samudra Manthan. She appeared during the churning of the ocean and is was taken by the seven gods, who compose the constellation of the Great Bear in the sky.
When the king tried to forcibly take away Kamdhenu, it is said that warriors appeared from her body and defeated the army of King Vishwamitra. The king who was impressed by the yogic powers decides to give his kingdom and became a powerful sage through intense penance.
Another legend has it that Kamdhenu lived in the ashram of Sage Jamadagni. King Kartaviryarjuna, on realizing it was a divine cow, took it away forcibly from the ashram. Parashurama, who was the son of Sage Jamadagni, annihilated the king and retrieved the cow. The sons of King Kartaviryarjuna then killed Sage Jamadagni and Parashuram then took the vow to wipe out 21 generation of Kshatriyas.
Stories regarding Kamdhenu are found in the Puranas, Mahabharata and Ramayana. But they are not unique. This gives rise to the notion that there are several Kamdhenus but this is not true there is only one divine cow and it is the stories that vary.
Some scholars are also of the view that the various divine cows like Shabala, Suvala, Surabhi and Nandini are different names of Kamdhenu.
When Kamdhenu is accepted as Surabhi, she is the mother of all the cattle on earth.
Kamadhenu – The Sacred Wish Fulfilling Cow
Kamadhenu – The Sacred Wish Fulfilling Cow
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Namo Devyai Maha Devyai
Surabhyai Cha Namo Namah|
Gavam Bheeja Swaroopaaya
Namaste Jagad Ambike||
The above stotra is believed to have been Indra’s prayer to the sacred Kamadhenu. Translated in English, means the following:
“Salutations to the great Goddess,
The One who fulfils devotees’ wishes
The One who lived as a seed in all cows,
Salutations to Her, the Mother of the Universe”
Hinduism considers the “Gomata” or the cow as an utmost sacred symbol. Hindus from all parts of the country, belonging to all cultures and languages, believe in the worship of the cow. This is due to the fact that Hindus consider all cows as aspects of Mother Kamadhenu.
The name Kamadhenu came from the Sanskrit root, “Kamaduha”, which literally means, “the cow of plenty” and “the one through whom all desires are fulfilled”.
Kamadhenu is worshipped as the divine wish-fulfilling cow goddess, according to Hindu mythology. She is considered as the mother of all cows, as also of the eleven Rudras. This sacred, miraculous cow provides her owner anything at all that he or she ever desires.
Various Names of Kamadhenu
Kamadhenu is referred to as Surabhi, which, loosely translated means “the Fragrant One”. It could also mean the one with the pleasing, soothing smell. Generally, it could refer to the typical smell that cows emanate.
This deity is also sometimes referred to as Matrika, the Mother or the one who sets an Example.
Her other names include Sabala (the Spotted One) and Kapila (the Red One).
Birth of and Stories Relating to Kamadhenu
There is no specific record about the birth of Kamadhenu. Different scriptures provide diverse versions of this phenomenon. However, it is vastly believed that the Divine Cow, Surabhi, emerged from the Samudra Manthan episode – during the time when the Milky Ocean was being churned. Hence, she is considered to be the offspring of the Devatas and the Asuras. She was then gifted to the Saptarishis, the great Sages. Brahma ordained that she should supply milk and ghee, to be used for sacred Yagnas (sacrificial rituals).
The Anushasana Parva states that Kamadhenu was the daughter of Daksha, the God who created the world. According to this, Surabhi was brought forth from the belch of Prajapati (the Creator) Daksha, after he drank the Amrita (Nectar of Immortality), which came forth from the Samudra Manthan. In due course of time, Surabhi gave birth to several golden cows, called Kapila cows. These cows were also regarded as the mothers of the world. Some versions narrate that Lord Brahma drank a bit too much of the Amrita and ended up vomiting a bit of it. Surabhi emerged from this nectarine fluid.
The Ramayana states that Surabhi is the daughter of sage Kashyapa and Krodhavasa, the daughter of Daksha. However, the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana consider Surabhi as the daughter of Daksha and the consort of sage Kashyapa, as also the mother of cows and buffalos.
According to the Matsya Purana, Surabhi is the consort of Brahma and the mother of the cow Yogishwari, the eleven Rudras, goats, swans and certain species of animals. Generally, she is described as the mother of quadrupeds. According to yet another version, Surabhi is the mother of Amrita, cows, Brahmins and the Rudras.
Yet other scriptures claim that either or both the sages Jamadagni and Vasishtha kept the cow with them, in their hermitage, for a period of time. During this time, there were kings who tried to steal her from the sages and were severely punished for their acts, by Kamadhenu herself. In this version, Kamadhenu played an important role in the hermitage, providing milk and milk products for the sage. She also had the powers to produce fierce warriors to protect him.
In the Mahabharata and the Devi Bhagavata Purana, the cow, Nandini, is also referred to as Kamadhenu and is sometimes considered to be synonymous with Kamadhenu. At other times, Nandini is sometimes referred to as the daughter of Surabhi-Kamadhenu. According to Raghuvamsa of Kalidasa, king Dilip, an ancestor of Lord Rama, once failed to pay his respects to Kamadhenu when he happened to meet her. Angered, she cursed him that he would go childless all his life. Dilip’s guru, sage Vasishtha, asked him to propitiate Nandini, Kamadhenu’s daughter. Accordingly, Dilip and his wife served Nandini, who nullified her mother’s curse and blessed them with a son, Raghu.
According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, Krishna and Radha were enjoying each other’s company one day, when they felt thirsty. Krishna created a cow, Surabhi and a calf, Manoratha, from the left side of his body. He then milked the cow, transferred it to a pot and proceeded to drink it. However, the pot fell to the ground and broke, spilling all the milk onto the ground. This milk became the Kshirasagara, the Ocean of Milk. Several cows miraculously emerged forth from Surabhi. Krishna gifted these cows to the Gopas, his shepherd-friends. Then, worshipping Surabhi, Krishna ordained that she would henceforth be considered the symbol of prosperity and would be worshipped on the occasion of Diwali.
Kamadhenu is believed to be dwelling in Goloka (the realm of cows) and also Patala (the Netherworld).
Kamadhenu is usually portrayed with the body of a cow and a female head, also with breasts. Sometimes, she is also shown as a spotlessly white cow, containing several deities within her physical structure.
Kamadhenu is regarded by Hindus as the source of all prosperity; verily as the Devi herself. She is also related to Prithvi or Mother Earth, who incidentally, is sometimes also described as the serene, all-enduring cow. To Hindus, the cow also represents purity, fertility, the ability to sustain human life and a selfless, sacrificing nature.
The four legs of the Kamadhenu embody the four Vedas and are considered to be as strong and enduring as the Himalayas. Her horns symbolize the Divine Trinity of Brahma at the tip, Vishnu in the middle part and Shiva at the base of the horn. In her eyes reside the sun and moon Gods. Agni, the God of Fire, and Vayu, the God of Wind, reside in her shoulders. In general, it is believed that all the major deities exist within the person of Kamadhenu. This is also how Kamadhenu is usually represented in portraits.
Another representation of Kamadhenu, which is slightly rarer, is that of a white Zebu cow. This version of Kamadhenu includes a woman’s head, adorned with a crown; impressive-looking eagle wings and a peacock’s tail. She is portrayed in this form in contemporary art.
Lord Dattatreya is commonly depicted being accompanied by a cow, which is often identified with Kamadhenu. Sometimes, Dattatreya is shown holding the Divine Cow in one of his hands.
Kamadhenu is closely related with Brahminism, as against dogs, which are given a non-Brahminical aspect. She also embodies the Pancha Bhoota or the Five Elements.
Kamadhenu as the Protector of Brahmins
In Hinduism, Kamadhenu is usually associated with the highest priest class of Brahmins, sages included. She symbolizes their entire wealth, both material and spiritual, while also being a religious figure.
In Hindu tradition, cow’s milk and its derivatives, especially, clarified butter or ghee, constitutes a vital part of Vedic Yagnas. These Yagnas are conducted by Brahmin priests and hence, Kamadhenu is sometimes also referred to the Homadhenu – the Homa is also a fire ritual. The cow hence takes a sacred form, as it is considered the source from who oblations are drawn and offered during the Yagna or Homa.
Kamadhenu provided milk and milk products for several sages and their families. Hence, she is seen as the one who nurtures Brahmins, offering them nourishing food for sustenance.
Kamadhenu protected her owner, sage Vasishtha, from the wrongdoings of abusive kings, who tried to steal her away from him. She had the power to produce hordes of warriors to destroy the armies that came to attack the ashram (hermitage). Hence, she also became the symbol of protection of Brahmins.
How Kamadhenu Protects Jamadagni
Kamadhenu resided at sage Jamadagni’s ashram for some time. According to the Mahabharata, the thousand-armed king of the Haihayas, Kartavirya Arjuna, severely damaged Jamadagni’s ashram and captured Kamadhenu’s calf.
In an effort to retrieve the calf, Jamadagni’s son, Parashurama, fought and killed the king. The king’s sons in turn killed Jamadagni. Greatly angered and seeking revenge, Parashurama destroyed the entire Kshatriya (warrior) race, 21 times over. His father was resurrected soon after Parashurama completed his terrible mission.
Many other treatises narrate a similar story regarding Kamadhenu’s stay at sage Jamadagni’s ashram. The Bhagavata Purana states that Kartavirya Arjuna abducted both Kamadhenu and her calf and Parashurama defeated and slew him and brought back the cow and her daughter to his father.
According to the Padma Purana, when Kartavirya Arjuna tried to capture Kamadhenu, she defeated his entire army and then flew away to the heavens. The king, angered and humiliated, killed Jamadagni.
According to the Brahmanda Purana, Kamadhenu used her immense powers to create a big city, in order to accommodate Kartavirya Arjuna’s army, when they came to visit Jamadagni’s ashram.
When they returned to their own kingdom, Kartavirya Arjuna’s minister, Chandragupta, persuaded him to capture the divine cow. The minister returned to the ashram and requested the sage to hand over the cow to them. However, Jamadagni flatly refused to do so. The minister then tried to take away the cow by force. In the fight that followed, the sage got killed and Kamadhenu escaped to the skies. However, Chandragupta managed to get hold of her calf.
The Brahma Vaivarta Purana, which refers to the cow as Kapila, states that she produced a vast army and a variety of weapons to help Jamadagni defeat the king’s army. Kapila also instructed her master in the martial arts. Using her powers, she defeated the entire enemy several times, sparing the life of the king each time. However, the king used the divine spear given to him by Dattatreya to kill Jamadagni.
Kamadhenu and Vasishtha
The Ramayana relates a story similar to the above. However, the sage here is Vasishtha and the king, Vishwamitra. Once, when Vishwamitra arrived at Vasishtha’s ashram along with his army, the sage welcomed him and offered an impressive banquet to all of them. This elaborate meal was created by Kamadhenu, who was then referred to as Sabala.
Amazed by Sabala’s powers, the king asked the sage to hand her over to him, in exchange for a thousand ordinary cows, horses, elephants, gold and money. Vasishtha, however, refused to part with Sabala. The king tried to take her with him by force, but Sabala fought back and returned to her master. At Vasishtha’s order, she produced Pahlava warriors, who destroyed Vishwamitra’s entire army.
Thus, Sabala produced the entire lineage of Shaka-Yavana warriors. The Kambhojas emerged from her mouth and the Barvaras came from her udder. The Yavanas and Shakas came from her hind and the Haritas, Kiratas and other warriors emerged forth from the pores of her skin.
Sabala’s army also killed all the sons of Vishwamitra. This incident lead to a great enmity between Vasishtha and Vishwamitra. Smarting from the humiliation, Vishwamirtra renounced his kingdom in order to become a great sage; and proceeded to undertake severe penance, so as to defeat Vasishtha with his powers.
Abodes of Kamadhenu
Different scriptures give different accounts of Kamadhenu’s residence. The Anushasana Parva of the Mahabharata states that Surabhi, the daughter of Daksha, worshipped Brahma for 10,000 years. Pleased with her devotion, the Lord blessed her, granting her Goddess status, decreeing that she and her children would henceforth be worshipped by all on earth. She was also given an entire world to rule. Thus, she rules Goloka, which is the cow-heaven, beyond the three worlds. Her daughters reside on earth, co-existing along with human beings.
The Ramayana describes Surabhi as living in the city of Varuna, the Lord of the Oceans. This city is believed to be situated in Patala. The sweet milk she produced is believed to have created the Kshirasagara, the Ocean of Milk.
The Udyoga Parva of the Mahabharata states that the milk had 6 different flavours and was the most nourishing thing you could ever find. This Parva also narrates that Surabhi resides in the Patala, along with her four daughters, the Dikpalis, or the guardians of the cow goddesses. Sauabhi guards the East; Harhsika, the South; Subhadra, the West; and Dhenu, the North.
Some texts aver that though there could have been one Kamadhenu, all of them were incarnations of the original Kamadhenu, who is the mother of all cows.
Other References to Kamadhenu-Surabhi
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna refers to Kamadhenu as Kamadhuk. He also declares here that among cows, he is the Kamadhuk.
The Skanda Purana relates that Lord Shiva once cast a curse on Surabhi. Once, Brahma and Vishnu were debating over which among them was superior. At that time, a gigantic and fiery linga emerged before them. They then decided that whoever found the end of this pillar would be considered superior. Brahma flew to the heavens in order to try to find the top of the pillar, but sadly, failed in the attempt. Brahma then ordered Surabhi to falsely testify to Vishnu that Brahma had seen the top of the linga. Angered by Surabhi’s lie, Shiva cursed her so that her bovine offspring would have to eat unholy substances.
Worship of Kamadhenu
Unlike the other goddesses of Hinduism, Kamadhenu has never been worshipped as an independent deity, nor does she have temples exclusively dedicated to her. Hindus believe that the best and most effective way to worship Kamadhenu is to venerate and respect all cows in general.
Hence, cows are worshipped and are often fed outside temples, especially on Fridays and on all special occasions as well. All cows are generally considered incarnations of Kamadhenu by pious Hindus the world over.
Kamadhenu Tantra
In Tantra Shastra, the Kamadhenu, the wish-fulfilling cow, is considered as a form of Saraswati Devi. This deity rules knowledge, speech, words, eloquence, music and the Arts. She is also represented as one of the Shaktis and is the Divine Consort of Brahma.
The Kamadhenu Tantra in itself is a question-answer session between Parvati (Shakti) and Shiva. Parvati queries Shiva about the true significance of the 50 letters of the Sanskrit alphabet – about their relationship with the tattvas.