Shree: The Feminine Divine
You [Goddess] are the power behind Agni (God of Fire), the power behind Vayu (God of Wind), the power behind Surya (God of Sun), the power behind the Vasus (Celestial Beings). You are the power behind Indra, Bruhaspati, and Varuna; You are the all-pervading power behind everything.
~Shree Suktam
Between the vibrant celebrations of Navratri and Diwali, Indian culture places significant emphasis on the Goddess and feminine divine. Navratri, a profound 9-day festival, pays homage to Shakti, symbolizing feminine power. This strength is embodied by Maa Durga, who triumphs over the demon Mahishasura in her nine distinct forms. Following Navratri, the joyous festivities of Diwali commence, lasting several days. Diwali begins with the worship of Goddess Laxmi and Maa Kali, further celebrating the feminine divine. The essence of this feminine power is often referred to as Shree in Indian spirituality.
Shree
Goddess Laxmi, revered as the Goddess of Wealth and the consort of Lord Vishnu, plays a vital role in Hindu spirituality and finance. Known by the alternate name Shree, which signifies wealth, resplendence, and enlightenment, her presence is essential in Vedic traditions.
In this context, 'Om' is celebrated as the most significant and powerful sound in the universe, symbolizing the connection to our inner divine selves. Similarly, the sound 'Shree' stands as the second most powerful vibration, representing the material realm. Together, these sacred sounds encapsulate the holistic nature of human potential, bridging both spiritual and material dimensions.
Over time, 'Shree' has also evolved to mean "honorable," reflecting its esteemed status in society and culture. Embracing the teachings surrounding Goddess Laxmi and the significance of these sounds can enhance one’s understanding of wealth and prosperity in both spiritual and material aspects.
Above is a Ragamala painting depicting Raga Shree. Though the raga comes from the mouth of the Goddess, it is still a Purush Raga. Therefore, the raga is shown as a male, with his consort, listening to Raga Shree perfumed by the female musicians in front of him.
In Indian classical music tradition, it is said that the Adi ragas (note-based melodic structures), or the first ragas to ever exist, were spoken into existence by God Himself. Six ragas, also known as the Purusha Ragas, are considered to be the first & oldest ragas:
Bhairav,
Hindol
Megh
Malkauns
Deepak
Shree*
The first five came from the mouth of Lord Shiva. The last one, Raga Shree, is said to have originated from the mouth of the Goddess, or the Shree-Mukha.
The raga conveys a complex set of emotions, marrying together the emotions of serenity, peace and deep devotion with a sense of restlessness–almost bhayanak, or haunting. The movement of the raga is far from simple, making it one of the most difficult ragas to master or perform. Yet when heard, Raga Shree is the epitome of intense and deep meditation.
Aaroha: S r M P N S’
Avroha: r’ N d P, M P d, d M G r S
Raga Shree belongs to the Purvi thaat & is sung at dusk, making it a Sandhiprakash raga (ragas sung before sunrise, or after sunset). These times are said to be the best times to worship Lord Shiva. In Indian traditions, there is a relationship between Shiva and Shakti, or the Shree. Hence, this raga is used as a medium for devotion to Lord Shiva.
