In the Name of Devi-* *Changbhal*🌸

“In the name of Devi — Changbhal!”

A simple yet profound chant that echoes during Navratri, yatras, and village fairs.

At first, it may sound like just a traditional cry.

But when we pause and reflect, we realize,

this chant is truly a mantra for human well-being.

The Philosophy of Sadguru Shri Vamanrao Pai

Sadguru Vamanrao Pai teaches:

True sadhana is not selfishly asking,

‘Give me, give me, give me more.’

Instead, sadhana is praying for the well-being of all:

“O Lord, bless them.

O Lord, protect them.

O Lord, may their family life be blissful.

O Lord, may they prosper.”

This is the sadhana of gratitude.

Because when we sincerely pray for the good of others,

our inner bitterness begins to dissolve,

the mind becomes compassionate,

and we feel lighter, calmer, and more peaceful.

But does well-being really happen through words?

This is a natural question.

If words are empty, without feeling,

their effect remains limited.

But when words carry emotion,

and emotions are rooted in pure, benevolent thought,

then those words gradually transform our attitude and our actions.

Science Speaks

• Psychology tells us that when we pray for the welfare of others,

our brain releases dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin.

• These chemicals bring us joy, calmness, and contentment.

• Their reflection shows up in our voice, eyes, and body language—

and others can sense these changes.

• Thus, benevolent thoughts are not only spiritual,

they are also scientifically proven to be effective.

*Not Sympathy, but Empathy*

Sadguru says: “Pray even for those with whom you disagree, even your enemies.”

Mere sympathy (pity) does not work here.

The true power comes only with empathy.

Empathy means:

“If I were in your place, how would I feel?”

When this feeling arises from the heart,

prayer is no longer just on the lips,

it becomes a heartfelt cry from within.

*But the Mind is Stubborn…*

The mind does not change easily.

It clings to old patterns.

That is why repetition is emphasized in sadhana.

Japa, recitation, chanting 108 times, or even a thousand repetitions—

all are ways of giving repeated impressions to the mind.

Sadguru even recommends the 1,000-fold prayer for universal welfare.

Neuroscience confirms:

• With repeated practice, neural connections in the brain strengthen.

• Old patterns dissolve, and new pathways are formed.

• This process is called Neuroplasticity.

• Thus, japa and recitation are not just religious rituals —

they are a rewiring process of the mind.

The Saints Echo the Same

Saint Tukaram said:

“Even if the divine name is taken once,

it can bring peace to the mind.”

Yet he advised constant remembrance,

because only repeated chanting can truly reshape the mind.

The Core Formula

• Pure thought → True words → Intense feeling → Auspicious action → Positive result

This is the real science behind the chant “Changbhal” and the prayer “Bhalankar.”

“In the name of Devi — Changbhal” is not just a ritualistic chant.

It teaches us:

• The sadhana of gratitude,

• Prayer rooted in empathy,

• The power of repetition to transform the stubborn mind,

• And universal well-being born from pure thought.

As Sadguru reminds us:

“When you pray for others’ welfare,

your own welfare naturally follows.”

So the next time we hear this chant,

let’s not treat it as a mere tradition,

but as a practice both spiritually uplifting and scientifically effective.

🌸 In the name of Devi — Changbhal! 🌸

A Changbhal Reflection:

*Jayant Joshi*