Sri Argala Stotram

Krishna Das's rendition of 'Sri Argala Stotram' is a powerful invocation of the Divine Feminine, specifically the goddess Chandi, also known as Durga. The lyrics are a traditional Sanskrit hymn that praises the various forms and attributes of the goddess, celebrating her as a destroyer of evil and a bestower of blessings. The hymn begins with an invocation to Chandi, acknowledging her as a victorious, auspicious, and fierce deity who protects her devotees and eradicates their suffering. This sets the tone for the rest of the hymn, which continues to extol her virtues and seek her blessings.

The hymn is rich with metaphors and cultural references. For instance, Chandi is referred to as 'Kali,' 'Bhadrakali,' and 'Kapalini,' each name highlighting a different aspect of her divine nature. Kali represents time and change, Bhadrakali signifies the benevolent aspect of the goddess, and Kapalini refers to her as the bearer of a skull, symbolizing the destruction of ego. The hymn also mentions her role in defeating various demons like Madhu-Kaitabha, Mahishasura, Shumbha, and Nishumbha, which are symbolic of the internal and external evils that she helps her devotees overcome.

Interestingly, the hymn transitions into a modern English refrain, 'I wanna know what Love is, I want you to show me,' which adds a contemporary layer to the ancient text. This juxtaposition serves to bridge the gap between the ancient and the modern, the spiritual and the emotional. It suggests that the quest for divine love and understanding is timeless and universal, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. Krishna Das, known for his kirtan and devotional music, masterfully blends these elements to create a piece that is both spiritually uplifting and emotionally resonant.