SVS 85 [ Vikramaya -79]

79. OM VIKRAMAYA NAMA: ॐ विक्रमाय नम:
Rider on Garuda and comes in प्रोसस्सिओं

In Srimad Ramayanam, Kakasura had done the greatest sin, more than Ravana or Indrajit or Kumbakarna. Because Kakasura wounded the Divine body of Sri Sita. In that incident, the Lord Sri Rama woke up and when no weapon was available, He took a grass and after chanting Brahmastra mantra and aimed at the wicked bird. This is the reason He is addressed as Medhavi. In fact, from this episode came the popular saying வல்லவனுக்கு புல்லும் ஆயுதம். Vikrama means He Who has bird as vehicle. Many gods have bird as vehicle. Brahma has swan and Arumuga has peacock as vehicles. But Garuda is unique in that it is considered as an embodiment of Vedas. In Garuda panchasat, Swami Desika praises Garuda. It is said that the Lord's name Sri Hari came when He came hurriedly on Garuda to rescue elephant, Gajendra. As we wake up in the early morning it is beneficial to imagine the Lord as mounted on Garuda. Vi = bird, krama = vehicle. In all temples during Brahmotsavam, Garuda vahanam is considered important. Because it is Vedas -Garuda- expose the Lord, as the God.