The Lord’s core message through the narration of Kaisika Purana to Bhu Devi during Varaha Avatar pertains to the inherent power of Nama Sankirtana to protect all, pointed out Sri M. A. Venkatakrishnan in a lecture. It refers to the story of a devotee of the Baanar community who used to extol the glory of the deity in Tirukkurungudi through soul-stirring songs. Once during the Shukla Ekadasi night in the month of Karthigai when he crossed the river to reach the temple, he was caught by a Brahmarakshas who was in search of a prey. The devotee, who believed in the observance of Kaisika Ekadasi Vrata, implored to be allowed to complete the vow after which he promised to offer himself to the Brahmarakshas. To allay any doubts in this regard, he took the extreme vow that if he failed to keep his word the sin that would befall one who speaks lowly of the Supreme Lord would fall on him. The rakshasa relented and the devotee returned in the morning as promised after completing the Vrata. Highly impressed by the honesty and the display of such devotion, the rakshasa wished that the devotee grant him the fruits of the songs he had sung to enable him to be relieved from the curse. The devotee acceded and the rakshasa was rid of the curse.
The inbuilt benefits in Nama Sankirtana can be compared to the characteristic trait of fire to scorch all who come into contact with it, regardless of their awareness of its natural tendency. Andal emphasises this truth in her Tiruppavai when she alludes to the unlimited power of His various names such as Kesava, Govinda, Narayana, Damodhara, etc., that promise succour and salvation. No evil can befall one who chants His name.
