Matru Devo Bhava

"Matru Devo Bhava" is a profound Sanskrit phrase from the Taittiriya Upanishad that translates to "Revere your mother as God." This teaching underscores the deep respect and reverence for mothers in Hindu culture, emphasizing their pivotal role in nurturing and guiding their children.

"Matru Devo Bhava" is a 1993 Telugu drama film directed by K. Ajay Kumar and produced by K. S. Rama Rao. The film stars Madhavi as Sarada and Nassar as Satyam, portraying a married couple who are both orphans raised in a Seva Ashram. Sarada is a music teacher, while Satyam works as a driver but struggles with alcohol addiction. Their lives take a tragic turn when Satyam is killed, leaving Sarada, who is diagnosed with cancer, to ensure her children are cared for after her passing. 

The film is a remake of the Malayalam movie "Akashadoothu" (1993) and was later dubbed in Tamil as "Thaai Ullam." It received critical acclaim, winning the National Film Award for Best Lyrics by Veturi for the song "Raalipoye Puvva" and the Filmfare Best Film Award (Telugu). The soundtrack, composed by M. M. Keeravani, features notable tracks like "Venuvai Vachanu," sung by K. S. Chithra, which became a chartbuster and earned a Nandi Award for Best Female Playback Singer. 

The film's title, "Matru Devo Bhava," translates to "Revere your mother as God," reflecting its central theme of motherhood and the sacrifices associated with it. The narrative emphasizes the profound respect and reverence for mothers, aligning with the cultural values discussed in the earlier blog post.

For those interested in watching the film, here's the full-length version available on YouTube:

In Hinduism, the mother is often seen as the first teacher, imparting essential values, language, and cultural traditions. The Taittiriya Upanishad (1.11.2) advises, "Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava, Atithi Devo Bhava," meaning, "Revere your mother, father, teacher, and guest as God." This teaching encourages honoring those who have significantly contributed to one's life and well-being.

The reverence for motherhood extends beyond the familial context to the cosmic level. The earth is often referred to as 'Mother Earth' or 'Bhumi Mata,' reflecting the nurturing aspect of the planet. Similarly, rivers are considered mothers, like Ganga Mata or Yamuna Mata, as they are life-giving and sustaining. This cosmic perspective highlights the universal principle of motherhood, emphasizing respect, gratitude, and reverence for the one who gives and nurtures life.

In contemporary times, the principle of "Matru Devo Bhava" serves as a reminder of enduring values. It calls upon individuals to honor their mothers, acknowledging their sacrifices and selfless love. This respect is not only a cultural mandate but also a universal principle that underscores the importance of motherhood in all aspects of life.

In essence, "Matru Devo Bhava" is a timeless teaching that emphasizes the sanctity of motherhood. It encourages individuals to recognize and honor the divine role of mothers, both in the immediate family and in the broader context of the universe.