Five Weapons of Lord Vishnu | Panchayudha Stotram Lyrics With Benefits

There are 5 weapons of Lord Vishnu which are considered to be the protectors of his devotees and the whole universe from the atrocities of demons and other evil elements of nature. It is believed that whoever worships these weapons is blessed with protection from evil spirits and all problems of life.

The five weapons are as follows:

1. Shankh or Conch
2. Chakra or Wheel
3. Gada or Mace
4. Asi or Sword
5. ShaarNg or Arrows with the Bow

You can see three of those weapons Conch, Wheel, and Mace in the hands of Vishnu in the image at the right-side.

There are hymns, one each for each weapon, praising the glory and powers of these 5 weapons known as 'panchaayudha stOtram'.

Besides the 5 hymns glorifying the 5 weapons, there are some more hymns which tell us the benefits and importance of reciting these hymns. These are also given below after the 5 hymns in each language.

I am producing these hymns of panchaayudha stotram in all the three languages of Hindi, Telugu, and English along with their meanings in English.


Lyrics of Panchaayudha Stotram in Telugu

పంచాయుధ స్తోత్రము 

స్ఫురత్సహస్రార శిఖాతి తీవ్రం సుదర్శనం భాస్కర కోటి తుల్యమ్
సురద్విషాం ప్రాణవినాశి విష్ణో: చక్రం సదాహం శరణం ప్రపద్యే (1)

విష్ణోర్ముఖోత్థానిల పూరితస్య యస్యధ్వనిర్దానవ దర్పహంతా
తం పాంచజన్యం శశికోటి శుభ్రం శంఖం సదాహం శరణం ప్రపద్యే (2)

హిరణ్మయీం మేరు సమానసారాం కౌమోదకీమ్ దైత్య కులైక హంత్రీమ్
వైకుంఠ వామాగ్రకరాభిమృష్ట్తాం గదాం సదాహం శరణం ప్రపద్యే (3)

రక్షో సురాణాం కఠినోగ్ర కంఠ చ్చేదక్షర చ్చోణిత దిగ్ద ధారమ్
తం నందకం నామ హరే ప్రదీప్తం ఖడ్గం సదాహం శరణం ప్రపద్యే (4)

యజ్ఞ్యా నినాద శ్రవణా త్సురాణామ్ చేతాంసి నిర్ముక్త భయాని సద్య:
భవంతి దైత్యాశని బాణ వర్షి శార్ణ్గం సదాహం శరణం ప్రపద్యే (5)

ఇమం హరే పంచ మహాయుధానాం స్తవం పఠెత్ యోనుదినం ప్రభాతే
సమస్త దు:ఖాని భయాని సద్యః పాపాని నశ్యన్తి సుఖానిసంతి
వనే రణే శత్రు జలాగ్ని మధ్యే యద్రుచ్చయాపత్సు మహాభయేషు
ఇదం పఠాన్ స్తోత్రమనా కులాత్మా సుఖీ భవేత్ తత్కృత సర్వరక్షః ॥

సశంఖ చక్రం సగదాసి శార్ణ్గం పీతాంబరం కౌస్తుభవత్స చిహ్నమ్
శ్రియా సమేతోజ్జ్వల శోభితాంగం విష్ణుం సదాహం శరణం ప్రపద్యే ॥

జలే రక్షతు వారాహః స్థలే రక్షతు వామనః
ఆటవ్యాం నారసింహశ్చ సర్వతః పాతు: కేశవః ॥



Hindi/ Sanskrit Language

स्फुरत्सहस्रार शिखाति तीव्रम् सुदर्शनम् भास्करकोटि तुल्यम्
सुरद्विषाम् प्राण विनाशि विष्णो: चक्रम् सदाहम् शरणम प्रपद्ये  (१ )

विष्णोर्मुखो त्थानिल पूरितस्य यस्य ध्वनिर् दानव दर्प हन्ता
तँ पाञ्चजन्यम् शशि कोटि शुभ्रम शंखम् सदाहम् शरणम प्रपद्ये (२)

हिरण्मयीम् मेरू समान साराम् कौमोदकीम् दैत्य कुलैक हन्त्रीम्
वैकुण्ठ वामाग्र कराभि मृष्टाम् गदाम सदाहम् शरणम प्रपद्ये  (३ )

रक्षोसुराणाम् कठिनोग्र कंठ च्छेदक्षर षोणित दिग्ध धारम्
तँ नंदकम् नाम हरे प्रदीप्तम् खड्गम् सदाहम् शरणम प्रपद्ये  (४ )

यज्ञा निनाद श्रवणात्सुराणाम् चेतान्सि निर्मुक्त भयानि सद्य
भवन्ति दैत्या शनि बाण वर्षि शारङ्गम् सदाहम् शरणम प्रपद्ये (५ )

इमम हरे पञ्च महायुधानाम् स्तवम् पठेत् योनुदिनम् प्रभाते
समस्त दुःखानि भयानि सद्य पापानि नश्यन्ति सुखानि सन्ति
वने राणे शत्रु जलाग्नि मध्ये यदृश्च यापत्सु महाभयेषु
इदं पठन स्तोत्र मनाकुलात्मा सुखी भवेत् तत्कृत सर्व रक्षः ॥

सशँख चक्रम् सगदासि शार्ङ्गम् पीताम्बरम् कौस्तुभ वत्स चिह्नम्
श्रिया समेतोज्ज्वल शोभिताङ्गम् विष्णुम् सदाहम शरणम प्रपद्ये ॥

जले रक्षतु वाराहः  स्थले रक्षतु वामनः
आटव्याम् नारसिंहश्च सर्वतः पातु केशवः ॥



Lyrics of panchaayudha stotram or  five weapons of Lord Vishnu with their meanings in English

Stotram (1)

sphuratsahasraara shikhaati tiivram sudarshanam bhaaskarakoti tulyam
suradvishaam praana vinaashi vishNOh chakram sadaaham sharaNam prapadye (1)

Meaning:- The weapon named 'Sudarshana' is emitting thousands of pungent and glaring flames equal to those of one crore suns. I seek refuge always from that wheel of Vishnu which is the destroyer of all evils.

Stotram (2)

vishNOrmukhOtthaanila pooritasya yasya dhwanir daanav darpa hantaa
tam paanchajanyam shashi kOti subhram shankham sadaaham saraNam prapadye (2)

Meaning:- The air filled through Vishnu's mouth produces such a great sound which dissipates and humbles the pride of demons. I always seek refuge from that conch (of Vishnu) named as 'paanchajanya' which is pure and white like one crore moons.

Stotram (3)

hiraNmayeem meru samaana saaraam koumOdakeem daitya kulaika hantreem
vaikunth vaamaagra karaabhimrustaam gadaam sadaaham sharaNam prapadye (3)

Meaning:- Embedded with gold and giant in size like "Meru" ( a mountain named 'Meru parvata' is an abode of all treasures) and named as "koumodaki" which is the destroyer of all demons; I seek refuge from that weapon of 'gada' (mace) which is held in Vishnu's left hand.

Stotram (4)

rakshOssuraanaam kathinOgrakantha chchEdaakshara shONita dighda dhaaram
tam nandakam naama harE pradeeptam khadgam sadaaham sharaNam prapadye (4)

Meaning:- Sword of Vishnu is hard and powerful and filled with blood that flows from the heads of demons that it cuts. I always seek refuge from that sword named "Nandaka" which shines in the hands of Vishnu.

Stotram (5)

yajnaa ninaada shravaNaatsuraanaam chEtaansi nirmukta bhayaani sadya
bhavanti daityaashani baaNa varshi shaarngam sadaaham sharaNam prapadye (5)

Meaning:- By hearing the sound of which (sound of the bow) the devas (angels) get relief from the fear of demons, remembering the continuous downpour of arrows, I seek refuge always from that bow named 'Shaaranga'.



Benefits of Reciting this Panchaayudha Stotram: (Verses 6, 7, and 8) 


imam harE pancha mahaayudhaanaam stavam patEt yOnudinam prabhaatE
samasta dukhaani bhayaani sadya paapaani nashyanti sukhaani santi
vanE raNE shatru jalaagni madhyE yadhruchcha aapatsu mahaabhayEshu
idam paThan stotra manaakulaatmaa sukhii bhavEt tatkrut sarva rakshaa ||

Meaning:- These are the 5 weapons of God Vishnu. Praising and reciting of these hymns daily morning results in the removal of all fears, destruction of all evil deeds and attaining happiness. These weapons protect whoever recites them while in forests or wars, in the midst of enemies or from floods and fires, from any kind of problems or fears and keep them happy always.

Sa shankha chakram sa gadaasi saarngam peetaambaram kaustubh vatsa chihnam
sriyaa samEtOjjwala shObhitaangam vishnum sadaaham sharaNam prapadye ||

Meaning:- I seek refuge from Vishnu who is possessed with the weapons of shankha, chakra, gada, asi, and saarnga ( wheel, conch, mace, sword, bow); who wears a golden silk attire and has kaustubha maNi as his jewel and vatsa mark on his chest and is empowered with the glorious glare of a shining body accompanied by consort Lakshmi.

jalE rakshatu vaaraahaha sthalE rakshatu vaamanaha
aatavyaam naarasimhascha sarvatah paatu kEshavaha ||

Meaning:- Varaha form will save while in waters, Vaamana form will save when on land, Narasimha form will save when in forests and Keshava will save everywhere and always.
కంకంఠఠకంఠ

Lord Krishna Worship Slokas - Krishna Ashtakam Lyrics

Krishna Ashtakam is a worshipping prayer rendered to Lord Sri Krishna praising his valor and glory.

These slokas are recited during the daily puja glorifying Krishna and his life events. 

Ashtakam means a prayer that contains eight hymns or slokas. Each hymn or verse is composed of four phrases describing one quality or great act of Sri Krishna. And, each sloka is composed of two lines.

It is believed that Krishna ashtakam lyrics possess great powers. You may recite them at any time without sitting at any worship place, during any time of the day, to find some relief and solutions from your tensions.

Krishna Ashtakam Lyrics

vasudeva sutam devam, kans chaanur mardanam

devakee paramaanandam, krishnam vande jagadgurum || (1)

atasee pushpa sankaasham, haara noopura shobhitam 

ratna kankaNa keyooram, krishnam vande jagadgurum || (2)

kutilaalaka samyuktam, poorNa chandra nibhaananam

vilasat kundala dharam, krishnam vande jagadgurum || (3)

mandaara gandha samyuktam, chaaruhaasam chaturbhujam

barhi pinchhaava choodaangam, krishnam vande jagadgurum || (4)

utphulla padma patraaksham, neela jeemoota sannibham

yaadavaanaam shiro ratnam, krishnam vande jagadgurum || (5)

rukmiNee kELi samyuktam, peetaambara sushobhitam  

avaapta tulasee gandham, krishnam vande jagadgurum || (6)

gopikaanaam kucha dvandva, kumkumaankith vakshasam 

sreeniketam maheshvaasam, krishnam vande jagadgurum || (7)

shrivatsaamkam mahoraskam, vanamaalaa viraajitam

shankh chakra dharam devam, krishnam vande jagadgurum ||  (8)  

krishnaashtaka midam punyam, praatarutthhaaya yah paTEth 

koti janma krutam paapam, smaraNena vinashyati || (This one tells the benefits of reciting it)

Om namo Shri Krishnaaya namaha | Om namo NaaraayaNaaya namaha ||

Meanings In English

Sloka (1)
Vasudeva sutam = son of Vasudeva, devam = to God, Kamsa chanura mardanam = one who killed Kamsa and Chanura demons, Devaki paramanandam = Devaki's happiness provider, krishnam = God Krishna, Vande = pay respect, jagadgurum = teacher of whole world or universe

So, the complete essence of sloka (1) is as follows:
I pay my reverence to Sri Krishna who is the son of Vasudeva and killer of demons Kamsa and Chaanura, and who is the immeasurable happiness for mother Devaki and is the teacher for the whole universe.

Sloka (2)
atasi Pushpa = a blue coloured flax flower, sankaasham = resemblance, haara = garland, nupur = toe rings made of silver, shobhitam = decorated, Ratna kankana = wristbands or bangles made with jewels, keyooram = upper-arm bracelets,

So, the essence of Sloka (2) is like this:
I bow to Sri Krishna whose color is like atasi Pushpa and who is glowing with decorated garlands, silver anklets, jewel-embedded wristbands, and bracelets.

Sloka (3)
kutilaalaka = curly hair, samyuktam = along with or possessed, purna Chandra = full moon,
nibhaananam = glow faced or having a shining face, vilasat = playful or pleasing, kundal = earrings,
dharam = one wearing them.

The full meaning of sloka (3) is as follows:
I pay respects to Sri Krishna who has curled hair, whose face glows like a full moon, and who is wearing pleasant and playful earrings.

Sloka (4)
mandaara = a flower named mandaar (hibiscus), gandha = smell, samyuktam = accompanied, charuhaasam = pleasant smile, chaturbhujam = four shouldered, barhi pincha = peacock feather, choodaangam = possessed in the hair of the head.

So, the essence of sloka (4) is:
I bow to Sri Krishna who smells of hibiscus fragrance, smiles pleasingly, who has four shoulders, and wears a peacock feather on his head.

Sloka (5)
utphulla = widened, padma patra = lotus leaves, aksham = eyed, neela = blue, jeemoota = water laden clouds, sannibham = resembling glowed, yadavaanaam = among yadav community, shiro ratnam = crest jewel or supreme.

The full meaning of sloka (5) is as follows:
I bow to Sri Krishna, whose eyes resemble wide-blown lotus petals or lotus leaves, whose body shines like the dark blue water-laden clouds, and who is the crest jewel or chief of the yadava clan.

Sloka (6)
Rukmini = the consort of Sri Krishna ( whom He married by eloping from a temple premise on her request), keLi samyuktam = accompanied in a sportive mood, pitambara = yellow golden or silken wear, sushobhitam = appearing gloriously, avaapta = boundless, Tulasi gandham = fragrance of Tulasi leaves,

The full meaning of sloka (6) will be as follows:
I bow my head to Sri Krishna who is making his appearance in gloriously shining wear of pitambaram and boundless fragrance of tulasi along with his consort Rukmini in a sportive mood.

Sloka (7)
gopikaanaam = because of gopikas ( the cowherd girls who have been pious devotees of Sri Krishna), kuchadwandva = both breasts of Sri Krishna, kumkuma Ankita = spread with kumkum (a red colored substance used for worship of God), vakshasam = hearted, sriniketam = abode of Sri or Lakshmi, Mahesh vaasam =  abode of Mahee (the Bhoodevi).

The essence of this sloka (7) is :
I pay my respects to Sri Krishna whose breasts are filled with the kumkum sprayed by gopis in worshipping Him, who is the abode for Lakshmi and Bhoodevi.

Sloka (8)
srivatsaamkam = the birthmark named srivatsa on God's chest, mahoraskam= large broad chest, vanamala = garland of forest flowers, virajita = adorned with, shankha chakra dharam = wearer of shankha and chakra (the conch and wheel)

The full meaning of sloka (8) is as follows:
I bow to Sri Krishna who has the mark of srivatsa on his chest and is adorned with a garland of flowers on his broad chest (body) and holds the divine conch and wheel in his hands.

Concluding Sloka
krishnashtakam = eight verses or slokas of Krishna, idam punyam = it provides good benefits or results, pratarutthaaya = early morning, Pathet = if recited, Koti janma = one crore births, krutam = done, paapam = evil deeds or sins, smaranena = even by thinking, vinashyati = gets destroyed.

So, the full meaning of this ending sloka is-
If you recite these krishnashtakam lyrics early in the morning, or even with a simple remembrance of these slokas in mind, sins done even in one crore lives will get destroyed ( and you will attain moksha).

Sri Krishnastakam Lyrics in Hindi

वसुदेव सुतम् देवम् , कंस चाणूर मर्दनम् 

देवकी परमानन्दम् , कृष्णम वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥ 

अतसी पुष्प संकाशम् , हार नूपुर शोभितम् 
रत्न कंकण केयूरम् , कृष्णम वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥ 

कुटिलालक संयुक्तम् , पूर्णचन्द्र निभाननम् 
विलसत् कुण्डलधरम, कृष्णम वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥  

मंदार गंध संयुक्तम् , चारुहासम् चतुर्भुजम् 
बर्हि पिंछाव चूडांगम् , कृष्णम वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥ 

उत्फुल्ल पद्म पत्राक्षम् , नील जीमूत सान्निभम् 
यादवानाम् शिरो रत्नम् , कृष्णम वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥ 

रुक्मिणी केळी संयुक्तम् , पीताम्बर सुशोभितम् 
अवाप्त तुलसी गन्धम् , कृष्णम् वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥ 

गोपिकानाम् कुचद्वन्द्व कुम्कुमाकित वक्षसम् 
श्रीनिकेतम् महेष्वासम् , कृष्णम वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥ 

श्री वत्साङ्कम् महोरस्कम् वनमाला विराजितम् 
शंख चक्र धरम देवम् , कृष्णम वन्दे जगद्गुरुम ॥ 

कृष्णाष्टक मिदम् पुण्यम् प्राथरुथाय यः पठेत 
कोटि जन्म कृतम् पापम् स्मरणेन विनश्यति ॥ 

ॐ नमो श्रीकृष्णाय नमः ।   ॐ नमो नारायणाय नमः ॥ 

Sri Rama Stotram Lyrics & Rama Mantra Meditation

In this sri rama stotram collection, I am giving some most popular slokas or verses for worshipping God "Sri Rama" who is an incarnation of Vishnu during Treta Yuga.

There is also one most powerful mantra of Rama (known as Sri Rama Rama Rameti mantra) that brings huge benefits for you. It is believed that Lord Shiva revealed this mantra to Parvati when she asked for a shorter version of Vishnu Sahasranamam.

It is given as the fourth lyric under each of the three language options below.


Hindi / Sanskrit Text

आपदा मप हर्तारम् दातारम सर्व सम्पदाम्
लोकाभिरामम् श्री रामम् भूयो भूयो नमाम्यहम् ॥

श्री राघवम् दशरथात्मज मप्रमेयम्
सीता पतिम् रघुकुलान्वय रत्न दीपम्
आजानु बाहुम् अरविन्द दलायताक्षम्
रामम् निशाचर विनाश करम् नमामि   ॥

रामाय रामभद्राय रामचन्द्राय वेधसे
रघुनाथाय नाथाय सीताया: पतये नमः  ।॥

श्री राम राम रामेति रमे रामे मनोरमे
सहस्र नाम तत्तुल्यम् राम नाम वरानने ॥





Telugu Text

శ్రీరామ స్తోత్రాలు 

ఆపదా మపహర్తారం దాతారం సర్వ సంపదామ్
లోకాభిరామం శ్రీ రామం భూయో భూయో నమామ్యహమ్ ॥

శ్రీ రాఘవం  దశరథాత్మజ మప్రమేయం
సీతాపతిం  రఘు కులాన్వయ రత్న దీపమ్
ఆజాను బాహుం అరవింద దళాయతాక్షం
రామం నిశాచర వినాశకరం నమామి  ॥

రామాయ రామభద్రాయ రామచంద్రాయ వేధసే
రఘునాథాయ నాథాయ సీతాయా పతయే నమ: ॥

శ్రీ రామ రామ రామేతి రమే రామే మనోరమే
సహస్ర నామ తత్తుల్యమ్ రామ నామ వరాననే ॥




Sri Rama Stotram Lyrics and Rama Mantra in English Text


aapadaa mapahartaaram daataaram sarv sampadaam
lokaabhiraamam shri raamam bhooyo bhooyo namaamyaham || 1 ||

shri raaghavam dasharathaatmaj mapramEyam
seethaapatim raghu kulaanvay ratna deepam
aajaanubaahum aravind dalaayataaksham
raamam nishaachar vinaashkaram namaami || 2 ||

raamaaya raamabhadraaya raamachandraaya vEdhasE
raghunaathaaya naathaaya seethaayaa-patayE namah  || 3 ||

sri raama raama raamEti ramE raamE manOramE
sahasr naam tat tulyam raama naama varaananE || 4 ||


Meanings for Sri Rama Stotram in English 

Sloka (1)
aapadaam = troubles, apahartaaram = destroyer or remover, daataaram = bestower or giver, sarva= all, sampadaam = wealth, lokaabhiraamam = chief or Lord of lokas (all worlds), Shri raamam = to that Sri Rama, bhooyo bhooyo = again and again, namaamyaham = I am paying respects (by folding hands or prostrating on floor).

So, the full meaning of this sloka is as follows:-
I pay my respects or salutations to Sri Rama, who is the remover of troubles and the bestower of all wealth and one who is the lord of all worlds.


Sloka (2)
Raaghavam = Rama is known as Raghava as he was born in Raghu vansh clan. Dasharath = father of Rama, aatmajam = born to or son of, aprameyam = non disputable, seethapati = Sita's husband (pati means husband), raghu kulaanvaya = descendants of Raghu kula or dynasty, ratna deepam = jewel light (one who shines like jewel), aajaanubaahum = one having arms touching to the knees, aravind =  a lotus flower (I hope it is purely white flower), dala = petal, aayata = width or wide, aksham = eyes, raamam = Sri Rama, nishachar = night wanderers (demons), vinaasha karam = one who destroys, namaami = paying respect.

So, the full meaning of this second sloka is as follows:-
I am saluting to Sri Rama, who is known as Raghava, indisputably the son of Dasharatha and husband of Sita, the glowing light (like a jewel) of the whole Raghu kula dynasty, one who possesses arms touching to his knees (it is a virtue for men), and his eyes wide open resembling petals of pure white lotus flower and who is the destroyer of all demons and evil spirits.

Sloka (3)
Raamaaya = to Rama, raamabhadraaya = one known as Ramabhadra (Rama stayed at a hill known as Bhadrachal. So he is known as Ramabhadra), raamachandraaya = Rama shines like the moon. So he is known as Ramachandra., vEdhase = in the Vedas (Veda is a holy scripture), Raghu naathaaya = among all raghuvansha kings, naathaaya = he is the Lord, seethaayaa pataye = husband of Sita, namaha = salutations.

The full meaning of this third sloka is as follows:-
My salutations to Rama who is also known as Ramabhadra and Ramachandra, who is mentioned in Vedas as the greatest lord of Raghuvansha and the whole world, and who is the consort of Sita.


Sloka (4)- 
This is actually a mantra having the full powers of Vishnu Sahasranamam. 

This sloka was actually disclosed by Lord Shiva himself to his consort Parvati.

Parvati was too much alarmed about the ignorance and the agonies faced by people. When God imparted the Vishnu Sahasranamam as the only remedy for people to get rid of their worldly sins and troubles, Parvati got worried. She felt sorry for the layman who cannot recite those highly standard verses.

So, she asked her Lord Shiva to provide a simplified version of Vishnu Sahasranamam. Then, Shiva disclosed to her about the power of the word "Rama". He tells her that taking the name of "Rama" three times is equal to the recitation of the whole text of Vishnu Sahasranamam.

So, here goes the meaning of this powerful mantra.

Shri Rama, Rama, Raameti = Rama, Rama, and Rama in this manner taking the name 3 times;
ramE = to play or enjoy; raamE = beautiful play with the word of Rama; manOramE = Hey Parvati; (who is good looking and appealing to the heart and soul), sahasranaama = 1000 names; tattulyam = equals to; raama Naama = Rama's name; varaananE = is gifted with.

So, the full essence of this 4th hymn"sri rama rama rameti sloka" is that taking the name of "Rama" three times is equal to and is empowered with the powers that can be obtained by way of reciting the entire 1000 names of Vishnu. Know this fact, You, O Good looking Parvati!

Lakshmi Stotram | Lakshmi Puja Lyrics With Meanings in English

Goddess Lakshmi is the consort of Lord Vishnu. She presides over wealth, happiness, and prosperity. She also bestows victory, children, knowledge, food, benevolence, etc., essential for a happy life.

It is believed that it is much easier to obtain the grace of the Goddess than God, just like the love of a mother is more easily available than that from the father.

So, the worship of Lakshmi (also known as Mahalakshmi) holds significant importance during all puja ceremonies.

I am providing the Lakshmi Stotram lyrics in English along with their meanings. Further, I have done the lyrics in Hindi text also at the bottom along with the benefits of worshiping Lakshmi Devi.

Lakshmi Stotram Lyrics

vandE padmakaraam, prasanna vadanaam, soubhaagyadaam, bhaagyadaam,
hastaabhyaam abhaya pradaam, maNigaNair naanaa vidhair bhooshitaam,
bhaktaabhiista phala pradaam, Harihara, Brahmaadibhi ssEvitaam,
paarshvE pankaja, shankha, padma, nidhibhir yuktaam, sadaa shakhti bhihi ||

sarasija nayanE, sarOja hastE, dhavaLataraamsuka gandhamaalya shObhE,
bhagavatee, harivallabhE, manOjnE, tribhuvana bhootakari praseedamahyam || (1)

Meaning of the Above Hymn:

I fold my hands and offer my salutations to Goddess Lakshmi. Her hands are like lotus (or she holds a lotus in her hands). She has a cheerful face and bestows fortunes and prosperity. She offers blessings with a hand and is adorned with various kinds of glowing jewels. She grants the wishes of devotees with fruitful results. She is attended by Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, and all others. She has on her sides the Lotus, Conch, and all treasures, and is the abode of all Powers.

Hey, Lotus-Eyed and Lotus-Handed Goddess, wearing a fragrant garland of pure-white flowers!
O, consort of Hari, and protector of all the three worlds, please bless us with your motherly grace.

Lakshmeem, ksheera samudraraaja tanayaam, shreeranga dhaaEshwareem,
daaseebhoota samasta dEva vanitaam, lokaika deepaamkuraam,
Shriman manda kataaksha labdha vibhava brahmEndra gangaa dharaam,
tvaam trilOkya kutumbineem, sarasijaam, vandE mukunda priyaam || (2)

Meaning of  the Above Hymn:

O Goddess Lakshmi, Daughter of the King of the Milky Ocean! Who resides in Sri Ranga Dhamam, and is attended to by all divine ladies! You are the sole Glowing Light for this entire Universe. O Goddess, who is the Beloved of Mukunda; residing in the chest of Vishnu, you are obtaining the glory of cheerful (blessing) glances from Brahma and Gangadhar (Shiva). You are the dweller of all the three worlds!

maatar: namaami, kamalE, kamalaayataakshi,
Shri Vishnu hritkamala vaasini, vishva maata,
ksheerOdajE, kamala kOmala garbha Gouri,
Lakshmii praseeda satatam namataam sharaNyE || (3)

Meaning of  the Above Hymn:

O Mother, I pray to you. You are Lotus-bodied, lotus-eyed, and reside in the lotus-like chest of Vishnu. You are the Mother of worlds and offspring of the Milky Ocean, with a glowing lotus-delicate womb. 

O Goddess Lakshmi, I surrender to you. Please always be gracious to me.

Word-To-Word Meanings of Lakshmi Stuti Lyrics

Sloka (1)

Meanings of words:
vande = salutations, padma = lotus, karaam = having hands (like lotus) or holding (a lotus) in hand, prasanna = smiling, vadanaam = faced, soubhaagya = fortune or wellness of the spouse, bhaagya = prosperity, daam = giver, hasta = hands, aabhyaam = medium, abhaya = protection, pradaam = granting, mani = glowing jewel, ganair = others (accessories), naanaa = many, vidha = varieties, bhooshitaam= decorated, bhakta = devotee, abheest = desires, phala = results, pradaam = giver or granter, Hari = Vishnu, Hara = Shiva, Brahma = the creator Brahma, aadibhi = and others, sevitaam = worshipped by, paarshve = on the sides, pankaja = lotus, shankh = the conch, padma = lotus, nidhibhir = treasures, yuktaam = possession, sadaa = always, shakti bhihi = powered.

sarasija nayane = lotus-eyed; saroja haste = her hands are like lotus (soft and beautiful); dhavalataraamsuka = of pure white glow; gandhamaalya = fragrant garland; shObhE = decorated; bhagavati = Goddess; Harivallabhe = consort of Hari or Vishnu; tribhuvana bhoota = living beings of the three worlds;  kari praseeda = please do protect; ahyam = always.

Sloka (2)

Meanings of words:
Lakshmim = to Goddess Lakshmi, ksheer = milk, samudra = ocean, raja = king, tanayaam = daughter, sriranga = name of a place named Sri Rangam in Tamil Nadu, dhaameshwari = Goddess of that place, daasi bhoota = having as servants or getting the services, samasta = all, deva = divine, vanitha = women, loka = world, eka = one or only one, deepaamkuri = emerging light, Sriman = God Vishnu on whose chest Lakshmi resides, manda = serene, kataaksh = glance, labdh = possess, vibhav = prosperity, Brahmendra = Lord Brahma, Gangaa dharaam = one who wears Ganga (Lord Shiva),
tvaam = you, trilokya = three worlds, kutumbineem = having as an abode, sarasija = born from the lotus, Vande = praying with folded hands, Mukund = Vishnu's another name, priyaam = beloved.

Sloka (3)

Meanings of words:
maata = mother, namaami = to offer reverence, kamale = lotus bodied, kamalaayata = wide like petals of lotus, akshi = having eyes, Vishnu = God, hrit kamal = lotus like chest, vaasini = resident, vishwa maata = world's mother, ksheera = milk, udaja = sprouted or offspring, kamal komal = delicate like lotus, garbh = womb, Gouri = shining, glowing bodied, Lakshmi = Goddess, praseeda = to be pleased, satatam = always for ever, namataam = paying respect, sharanye = surrendering.

 Lakshmi Stuti Lyrics in Hindi

वन्दे पद्मकराम प्रसन्न वदनाम सौभाग्यदाम भाग्यदाम
हस्ताभ्याम् अभय प्रदाम् मणि गणैः नाना विधै: भूषिताम्
भक्ताभीश्ट फल प्रदाम् हरिहर ब्रह्मादिभि: सेविताम्
पार्श्वे पंकज शंख पद्म निधिर्भ्युक्ताम् सदा शक्तिभिः ||
सरसिज नयने सरोजहस्ते धवळा तरामसुक गन्धमाल्य शोभे
भगवति हरिवल्लभे मनोज्ञे त्रिभुवन भूतिकरि प्रसीद मह्यं ॥

लक्ष्मीम् क्षीर समुद्रराज तनयाम् श्रीरंग धामेश्वरीम्
दासीभूत समस्त देव वनिताम् लोकैक दीपांकुरॉम
श्रीमन मन्द कटाक्ष लभ्द विभव ब्रह्मेन्द्र गंगाधराम्
त्वाम त्रैलोक्य कुटुम्बिनीम् सरसिजाम् वन्दे मुकुन्द प्रियाम्  ॥

मातर्नमामि  कमले कमलायताक्षि
श्री विष्णु हृत्कमल वासिनि विश्वमात
क्षीरोदजे कमल कोमल गर्भ गौरि
लक्ष्मी प्रसीद सततम् नमताम् शरण्ये  ॥

So, the above are the slokas in the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, which can be recited in a melodious form also as Songs.

Lakshmi's worship can be beneficial in two ways.

The first advantage is, that she gets pleased more easily and grants your wishes.

The second one is, that if Lakshmi gets pleased, then Vishnu also gets pleased and grants His blessings abundantly.

You can do it in a very simple method without going through that elaborate worship mode practiced by many others. If you can sincerely worship her with these simple lyrics, they are enough to obtain her grace.

If you are interested in spending more time with the Goddess, you can perform the kumkuma archana reciting the 108 names of Her. Here is the link for 108 names of Sri Lakshmi.

24 Names of Vishnu | How to Do Vishnu Puja With 24 Names

It is upheld by many seers of Vaishnavism that the 24 Names of Keshava are of special importance out of the 1000 names of God that are known as Vishnu Sahasranamam.

In a previous post, I mentioned performing Achamana or the purification act of body and soul by sipping water 3 times into your mouth (with your bowl-shaped palm) while chanting the primary three names of God. 

After that ritual has been performed, you will start the worship of God Vishnu, reciting the below-mentioned 24 names, popularly known as  "Keshava Nama" in Sanskrit. This worship can be done with flowers and/or akshata or akshintalu (raw rice mixed with turmeric powder that is mostly used for performing puja and, thereafter, for blessing your youngsters at all ceremonies).

These twenty-four names of God Vishnu are a part of the Vishnu Sahasranamam and are treated as most auspicious by all devotees, each name signifying some special quality and attribute of God.

You will be reciting each name and offering the flower or akshata/kumkum to God at each name. You may offer both the flower and akshata interchangeably or even by mixing both on one plate. Offer a flower each for each name or one or two grains of akshata at your convenience.

24 Keshava Namas

First of all, let me be clear that the prefix "Om" refers to the sound which vibrates all through the universe in the form of spiritual sound waves reaching to God.

The suffix "namaha" or "Namah" refers to the fact that "I am saluting" (the performer of this worship), bowing my head, or folding my hands before God.

So both of the above are used as the prefix and suffix in almost all prayers.


1) Om Keshavaaya namaha  ( one who possesses dense, black curled hair. It is also interpreted as one who Himself is Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. K is for Brahma, and a hidden letter A in 'e' is for Vishnu and 'ish' in esh is for Shiva. The full word of Keshav is broken into K+A+Ishav)

2) Om Naaraayanaaya namaha ( one who has his abode as water/ocean, or,  who is the abode for all living beings. "aayanam" means resting place and "naara" means either water or all living things)

3) Om Maadhavaaya namaha ( one who is the husband of Lakshmi or one who took birth in Madhu creed or family which is a sub-sect of the Yadav vamsha. Further, maa means mother' (Lakshmi) and 'dhava' means husband.)

4) Om Govindaaya namaha (Govinda means "cowherd' or as "the one who regained earth again from netherworld" or as "who can be realized through Vedic chantings alone".)

5) Om Vishnave namaha (One who is present in all the creatures and things of the universe. "Vishnu' means who is present all through the elements of the universe. It may also mean as 'giver' and 'protector')

6) Om Madhusoodhanaaya namaha (One who has conquered a demon named 'Madhu'. Or whose form is like honey. It may also refer to as the stealer of butter/ghee as a child, Lord Krishna. Because 'Madhu' refers to 'honey' and ghee/butter also).

7) Om Trivikramaaya namaha ( One who measured all three worlds with his step, one who covered the entire universe with 3 long steps or who is spread and shines through all 3 Vedas of Rig, Yajur, and Saama. 'Tri' means three and 'Vik' means states and 'ramaaya' refers to one who pleases or shines)

8) Om Vaamanaaya namaha ( One who is beautiful in a dwarf form and spreads the glowing light bestowing pleasures. 'Vaaman' means handsome dwarf)

9) Om Sriidharaaya namaha ( One who is wearing Lakshmi in his heart. 'Sri' refers to Lakshmi and 'Dhar' means one bearing her and giving support)

10) Om Hrusheekeshaaya namaha (One who is the controller of senses. It also refers to one having rays of sun and moon in his hair that give joy to all beings.)

11) Om Padmanaabhaaya namaha (One who has Lotus in his navel, which is an abode of Brahma. It may also refer to his navel being beautiful as lotus. 'Padma' means lotus and 'naabhi' means navel.)

12) Om Daamodaraaya namaha (One who was tied with a rope around his stomach by Yashoda. 'Udara' means stomach and 'daama' means rope or cord. "daama" can also refer to the whole universe and so denotes 'one who has the entire universe in his stomach'.)

13) Om Sankarshnaaya namaha (One who awards the fruits of karma or fate to both living and lifeless beings. Or one who has the dual powers of attraction and repulsion. 'Sankarshana' is also considered as the name of the great serpent, Adishesha, who is a part of God. He is also the Lord of 'Ahamkaara' or ego.)

14) Om Vaasudevaaya namaha (Vaasudeva means son of "Vasudeva". He is Sri Krishna, the first of the four manifestations of Vishnu, others being Sankarshana, Pradyumna, and Aniruddha. These four manifestations are Lords of 4 states of the soul: Chitta (subconscious mind), Ahamkaara (ego), Buddhi (intellect or knowledge), Manas (mind)).
Vasudeva is Lord of 'Chitta' or subconsciousness.

15) Om Pradyumnaaya namaha (Pradyumna means one who is self-glowing. He is enriched with beauty, wealth and lovable appearance. He is the 3rd of the four manifestations of Vishnu and is the Lord of 'Buddhi' or intellect.)

16) Om Aniruddhaaya namaha (Aniruddh means unstoppable. He possesses mighty valor and an uncontrollable form that protect his devotees. He is the 4th manifestation and is the Lord of 'manas' or mind)

17)Om Purushottamaaya namaha (One who is the supreme being or God. 'Purusha' means a person and 'uttama' means supreme. One who is beyond death and life.)

18) Om Adhokshajaaya namaha (One who does not decrease or diminish even after being enjoyed and consumed by all beings. It also means one having the eternal knowledge that is not reachable through our senses.)

19) Om Naarasimhaaya namaha (One who took the form of half-lion and half-man to protect Prahlad and to kill his demon-father "Hiranyakashipu". 'Nara' means man and 'Simha' means lion.)

20) Om Achyutaaya namaha (One who does not fall or lose his powers even after entering this material world. An infallible being. 'Achyuta' means one who does not fall or beget of something. It also means one who keeps Brahma and others infallible.)

21) Om Janaardhanaaya namaha (One who protects his devotees from enemies and miseries. 'Jana' means people, 'aardhan' means miseries or enemies creating miseries)

22) Om Upendraaya namaha (One who appeared as Indra's brother. 'Upendra' means Indra's part or youngster. It is believed that 'Vamana' also resembled Indra's brother when seeking three steps from Mahabali, the demon)

23) Om Haraye namaha (One who removes or evaporates the miseries of his devotees and provides them eternal bliss or moksha)

24) Om Srikrishnaaya namaha (One who is the most beautiful and enchanting with his hue resembling dark clouds. One who is in eternal bliss with his own creations in the form of Sri Krishna)


So, above are the 24 Names of Sri Krishna or Vishnu that are popular as Keshava Namas or The 24 Names of Lord Vishnu.

After performing puja with these names, one may recite some more hymns or slokas of Vishnu, Sri Krishna, Goddess Lakshmi, and Panchaayudha, etc. if he likes and has time to enjoy more time with God. You will be ending the worship offering dhoop (incense odor), deep, naivedya, and Mangala haarati in a simple form.

Vishnu Stuti Lyrics - Meanings - Prayers in Praise of Lord Vishnu in Hindi, English and Telugu Languages

Vishnu stuti or Vishnu stotram is the recitation (or chanting) of verses in praise of Lord Vishnu or Srimannarayana God.


There are basically three most popular verses that are recited daily at homes in praise of Vishnu stuti. These slokas are generally recited after doing worship with the 24 names of Vishnu known as "Keshava Naamaa-s".

So, below are the lyrics presented first in Hindi, then in English Text, and thereafter, in the Telugu language.

After that, the full meanings in the English language are also provided.



Hindi / Sanskrit Language

शान्ताकारम् , भुजगशयनम् ,पद्मनाभम् , सुरेशम् ,
विश्वाकारम् , गगनसदृशम् , मेघवर्णम् , शुभाङ्गम् ,
लक्ष्मीकान्तम् , कमल नयनम् , योगि हृद्यानगम्यम् ,
वन्दे विष्णुम् भव भयहरम् , सर्व लोकैकनाथम  ॥

मेघश्यामम् , पीत कौशेय वासम् ,
श्रीवत्साङ्कम, कौस्तुभोद् भासिताङ्गम् ,
पुण्योपेतम् , पुण्डरीकायताक्षम,
विष्णुम् वन्दे सर्व लोकैकनाथम्   ॥

स शंख चक्रम् , स किरीट कुण्डलम् ,
स पीत वस्त्रम् , सरसी रुहेक्षणम् ,
सहार वक्ष स्थल शोभि कौस्तुभम् ,
नमामि विष्णुम् शिरसा चतुर्भुजम्  ॥


Vishnu Stuti Lyrics in English Text  

shaantaakaaram, bhujaga shayanam, padma naabham, surEsham,
vishwaakaaram, gagan sadrusham, mEgh varNam, subhaamgam,
laxmiikaantam, kamala nayanam, yOgi hrudyaa nagamyam,
vandE vishnum, bhav bhay haram, sarv lOkaikanaatham   || (1)

mEgh shyaamam, peeta kausEya vaasam,
srivatsaangkam, koustubhOdh bhaasitaangam,
puNyOpEtam, pundariik aayataaksham,
vishnum vandE, sarv lOkaikanaatham    || (2)

sa shankh chakram, sa kireet kundalam,
sa peet vastram, sarasee ruhEkshaNam,
sahaar vaksha sthal shObhi kaustubham,
namaami vishnum, sirasaa chaturbhujam   || (3)

Telugu Language

విష్ణు స్తుతి శ్లోకాలు (శ్రీమహావిష్ణు స్తోత్రాలు)

శాన్తాకారం, భుజగ శయనం, పద్మ నాభం, సురేశం,
విశ్వాకారం, గగన సదృశం, మేఘ వర్ణం, శుభాంగం,
లక్ష్మీ కాంతం, కమల నయనం, యోగి హృద్యాన గమ్యం,
వందే విష్ణుం, భవ భయ హరం, సర్వ లోకైక నాథం  ॥

మేఘ శ్యామం, పీత కౌసేయ వాసం,
శ్రీ వత్సాంకం, కౌస్తుభోద్భాసితాంగం  ,
పుణ్యోపేతం, పుండరీకాయతాక్షం,
విష్ణుం వందే సర్వ లోకైక నాథం ॥

స శంఖ చక్రం, స కిరీట కుండలం,
స పీత వస్త్రం, సరసీ రుహేక్షణం,
సహార వక్ష స్థల శోభి కౌస్తుభం,
నమామి విష్ణుం, శిరసా చతుర్భుజం ॥





Meanings in English

Sloka 1) 
Shanta-Karam = One who is peaceful in form; bhujaga shayanam = one who sleeps on a serpent;
Padma naabham = One having his navels like a lotus or the Lotus itself as his navel; surEsham = chief or head of angels; vishwaakaaram = universe shaped;
Gagan sadrusham = sky resembled; Megha varnam = cloud coloured; subhaamgam = auspicious bodied;
LaxmikaanTam = one having Goddess Laxmi as his consort; Kamal nayanam = lotus-eyed;
yogi hridyaangamyam= one who is not reachable or understandable even to yogis or ascetics;
Vande = to pay respect; vishnum = to God Vishnu; Bhava Bhaya haram = who drives away fear;
sarva lOkaikanaatham = the only lord of all world (Sarva means 'all', Loka means 'world'
eka means'one or only' and naatham means' lord').

So, the full meaning of this verse is as follows:

I offer my salutations to that Vishnu, who is of peaceful or serene appearance, one who sleeps on a serpent, one who has lotus as his navel and is the lord of Devas or angels, who is embodiment of the universe and sky shaped, whose colour is like that of clouds, whose body is auspicious, who is having Goddess Laxmi as his consort, whose eyes are like lotus and who is not understandable even to sages, one who removes the fears of worldly beings and who is the only lord of all lokas or universes.


Sloka 2)
megha = cloud, shyaamam= dark colour, pita kauseyam = yellow dress, vaasam = abode or one who resides in, srivatsa = srivatsa mark or sign, aangkam = having on the chest, kaustubha = the jewel of kaustubha, udbhaasita = shining, angam = bodied, punya = holi or pure, oupetam = encircled with, pundarika = lotus petal, aayata = extension, aksham = eyed, vande = to respect or salute, sarva loka = all lokas, ekanaatham = one Lord.

So, the full meaning of the second shloka is as follows:

I offer my salutations to Vishnu, the Lord of all lords, who is cloud hued, and who is dressed in yellow silk garments, whose chest bears the mark of srivatsa emblem, whose body glows with the kaustubha jewel, who is embodied with holiness, and whose eyes are wide like lotus petals.


Sloka 3)
sa = with or one who is having, sankha = the conch, chakram = round ring or wheel, kireeta = crown,
kundalam = earrings, peeta vastram = yellow golden dress, sarasi = born from lake (Lotus), ruhekshanam = resembling eyes ( ruha = resemblance, akshanam = possessed eyes), sa haara = with garland, vaksha sthal = chest, shobhi= adorned, kaustubham = kaustubh mani (jewel),
namaami = saluting, Vishnum = to Vishnu, sirasaa = with my head, chaturbhujam = four armed.

The full meaning of this third sloka is as follows:

I salute by bowing my head to that four armed Vishnu, who holds the conch (named as paanchajanya) in one hand and the holy wheel (known as Sudarshan chakra) in another hand, one who is adorned with a beautiful crown and earrings, and dressed in yellow golden-silk dhoti, one who has lotus like eyes and is wearing a garland with a kaustubha mani (jewel) on his chest.

So, these are the three popular slokas recited daily during prayers for Vishnu. In the next post, I will tell you about the Lakshmi stuthi or slokas recited addressing Goddess Lakshmi.

Puja of Lord Vishnu or Lakshmi Narayana | How to Perform Puja at Home

First of all, I request viewers to bear with me for being more preferential to Lord Vishnu or Sri Lakshminarayan in my articles, as I am a Vaishnavite.


I will be posting about Lord Shiva also in my later posts.


So, presently, I am dealing with my Vaishnava sampradayam series of performing puja at home.



How to Start Puja of Lord Vishnu

• First, you will render the prayers to Lord Ganesha by chanting "suklam baradharam vishnum" and other hymns on Ganesha. You may view the meanings of suklam baradharam vishnum meaning at this link.

• Thereafter, chant the Guru stuti or acharya vandanam hymns, paying your respects to the tree of teachers and saints of your creed. You can view these hymns also with their full meanings at this Link.

Thereafter, you are required to purify your body and soul by sprinkling water on your head and taking water three times into your mouth chanting some mantra and names of God.

Three Names of God to perform Achamana before starting the worship:

1. Om Achyutaaya namaha
2. Om Anantaaya namaha
3. Om GOvindaaya namaha

The whole procedure is elaborated in full details as below:

a) Atma Shuddhi or Purification of Soul and Body 
This purification is done by chanting the below mentioned Atma shuddhi mantra or verse.

English Text

Om, apavitra pavitrO vaa, sarvaavasthaam gatO pi va,
yah smarEt pundariikaaksham, sa baahyaabhyantarah suchihi ||

Hindi Text

ओम, अपवित्र: पवित्रोवा सर्वावस्थम् गतो पि व ,
यह पठेत पुण्डरीकाकक्षम् ,  स बाह्याभ्यन्तर: सुचिः ॥

Telugu Text

ఓం , అపవిత్ర పవిత్రోవా , సర్వావస్టాం  గతో పి వ  
య: స్మరేత్ పుండరీకాక్షం స బాహ్యా భ్యంతర శుచి: ॥  



Meaning in English
apavitra = impure; pavitra = pure; sarvaavastham = all conditions; gato pi = passed through, va = or;
yah = this; smaret = remembering; pundarika = butterfly or black bee found on trees and plants ( but many people associate lotus also to this word); aksham = eyed; sa = for or with;
baahyabhyah = along with outer, antara = inner, suchihi = (for) cleanliness or purification.

So the essence of this mantra is:-
Whether pure or impure, or might have passed through all other conditions of life, I am remembering the butterfly-eyed (or lotus-eyed ) God Vishnu, for outer and inner purification.

• So, you will first recite the above mentioned Atma shuddhi mantra and then sprinkle the drops of water on your head three times from the puja glass or rounded tumbler using your right-hand thumb chanting "pundariikaakshaaya namaha" all the three times as mentioned below.

b) Achamana or taking water into mouth 3 times

This puja starting mantra is that of performing Aachamanam. This procedure is as follows. 

You will be keeping pure water at puja place in a glass or tumbler that is to be used only for puja purposes. That container should not be used for other purposes. You will be washing it and filling fresh water daily for puja. 

A separate new spoon or a spoon-like thing known as uddharini is used for taking water from it for these purposes.

• Now, after completion of Atma suddhi as mentioned at the above top Atma suddhi verses, you will be performing Achamanam. 
• Three names of God are recited while taking water 3 times into your mouth. 
• Hold your right palm like a bowl and draw the water from the container using the spoon with your left hand and pour it into the bowl-shaped palm and drink the water reciting each name.
• While drinking the water, you have to take the names of God as follows in the same sequence.
• First name to be recited is "Om achyutaaya namaha" and drink the water. ( achyutaaya means one who has no perishability or destruction).
• The second name is "Om anantaaya namaha" and drink water ( anantaaya means one who has no beginning nor ending).
• The third name is "Om Govindaaya namaha" and drink the water ( Govindaaya means one who is the finder of cows or head of cows).

In this way, the Aachamanam is performed before starting puja. Thereafter, you can start the worship with flowers or turmeric mixed rice - which I am dealing with in my next post.

A Holy Dip in the Holy Waters at Kumbh Mela or Pushkar Events

The Ardh Kumbh Mela or Half  Kumbh Mela event will take place in the first quarter of the year 2019 on the banks of River Ganges at Prayag, Allahabad.

You must have come across these terms 'holy river' or 'holy water' many times if you are in India or living with Indian Community in your circles.

What is a Holy River and Why it is Holy

The river Ganges or 'Ganga' is considered as a very pious and holy river with magical attributes since history immemorial. The Vedas and Puranas glorified "Ganga" as the Holy Mother purifying human beings from their sins. It is believed that the river was formed from heavenly nectar that descended to earth with the help of Shiva on the severe penance of  Bhagiratha who brought it down to give rebirth to his ancestors. So, the starting point of Ganges is known as Bhagiratha tirtha on the Himalayas. Since it was brought down to earth for giving rebirth or salvation to the ancestors and as it contains heavenly nectar which makes life eternal with no death, people believe that whoever takes bath in this river gets rid of all sins and attains moksha which is free of death and earthly attachments.

What is Holy Water?

Holy water refers to the water of Ganges and that of other rivers during some auspicious moments or periods. The waters of other rivers are treated as 'holy water' during the time periods of the occasions of Kumbh Mela or Pushkar that occur at each 12-year gaps.

Normal water is also converted into holy water by sprinkling a drop or two of the holy water into it that can be used for religious and other auspicious purposes. That is why some people carry holy water in bottles to their homes after bathing at Kumbh Mela or Pushkar occasions. That water is stored and used for a lengthy period on such auspicious occasions.

Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Mela is celebrated after completion of every 3 years at each one of these four places rotationally:- Haridwar, Prayag, Nasik, and Ujjain. The rivers of these four places are respectively as follows.

• River Ganges at Haridwar
• The confluence of 3 rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati at Prayag in Allahabad.
• River Godavari at Nashik
• River Shipra at Ujjain.

So, each of these four places celebrates the Kumbh Mela after every 12 years gap.

Four Kumbh Mela Places & Duration of Celebrations

1. Allahabad- During Magha masa or for approximately 45 days during the months of January-February.
2. Haridwar-  During Chaitra masa or for approx. 45 days during March-April.
3. Ujjain-       During Vaishakha masa or approximately 45 days during April-May.
4. Nashik-     During bhadrapada masa or approx. 45 days during August-September.

Pushkar or Pushkaralu

As per Hindu mythology, "Pushkar" is the name of one great pious person or angel who can live in water and purify the waters. So, Jupiter requests him to travel along with him all through the years and keep purifying all waters of all rivers. Pushkar accepts Jupiter's request and started to live in the rivers along the path of Jupiter.

One day's travel of Jupiter is equal to one year for us human beings.

'Pushkaram' is the event of celebration when Jupiter enters into one of the zodiac signs and remains there for one year. The first twelve days are most important and known as adi Pushkaram and the last twelve days are known as Antya Pushkaralu.

As per Hindu astrology, there are twelve rashis in each year which are known as zodiac signs. Each zodiac sign is associated with a river. So, when Jupiter enters a particular zodiac sign each year, the river associated with that sign becomes the place of pushkaram for that year. In this way, each river celebrates pushkaram on their turn every 12 years. So, the cities and towns on the banks of each of these 12 rivers celebrate pushkaram or holy dips (also known as pushkaralu in Andhra Pradesh) every 12 years.

The Rivers and their corresponding zodiac signs: 
(The Hindu astrological Rashi names are also given for each zodiac sign in brackets)

Chart showing River Names and Corresponding zodiac signs with a period of their occurrence

RIVER	Zodiac sign	Period
Ganges	Aries         (mesh rashi)	March-April
Narmada	Taurus      (vrushabh rashi)	April-May
Saraswati	Gemini     (mithun rashi)	May-June
Yamuna	Cancer      (kark rashi)	June-July
Godavari	Leo            (simha rashi)	July-August
Krishna	Virgo         (kanya rashi)	August-September
Kaveri	Libra          (tula rashi)	September-Oct.
Bhīma/Tamraparni	Scorpio     (vrushchik rashi)	October-Nov.
Tapti/ Brahmaputra	Sagittarius (dhanur rashi)	November-Dec.
Tungabhadra	Capricorn  (makar rashi)	December-January
Sindhu	Aquarius   (kumbh rashi)	January-Feb.
Pranhita	Pisces        (meena rashi)	February-March

So, for Kumbh Mela purpose, the above mentioned four places of Allahabad(Prayag), Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain are famous where tens of millions of people gather to take bath in the holy river.

Regarding pushkaralu, all the places falling on the banks of above mentioned 12 rivers are believed to be auspicious and holy.

So, devotees flock to any place whichever is nearer to them to take a dip in the holy waters on that occasions.

But, much importance is given to those places only with major waters flowing in abundance. It might also be due to the location of famous temples in those places.

People pray to God while taking bath chanting God's name or some hymns and take three dips into the waters. Then, they go to the temple on the banks and offer prayers and take blessings of God.

For some more details about Kumbh Mela or Maha Kumbh, you may visit this post.

Stampede on First Day of Kumbh Mela/Pushkaralu Claims 27 Lives - Who is to be Blamed?

People of Andhra Pradesh were excitingly waiting for the kickstart of Pushkaralu (The Godavari Kumbh Mela) at Rajahmundry in the early hours of the auspicious time on 14th July 2015.

It is a big celebration every 12 years, and especially this year's Godavari Pushkaralu is termed as the "Maha Pushkaralu" that occurs once in every 144 years.

That is, only one person among three generations can witness and take part in this great event.

Those who take a dip in the holy waters of Godavari during Pushkaralu is considered to be the luckiest person who directly attains moksha besides elevating the souls of all his ancestors.


But, this sad news of stampede at Pushkar ghat in Rajahmundry is a great blow to all of us.

Devotees who have come with a desire to take the holy dip in the Godavari to attain eternal bliss and moksha had to return with the dead bodies of their family members. What more can be worst than this blow?

Now, who is to be blamed for all this?

• Do you think God is to be blamed?
• Or is it the fault of the person dying?
• Or is it the people around the victim?
• Do you say CM is to be blamed for taking his dip or inaugurating it?

No, none of them can be blamed.

Then who is Responsible? 

I say the administration is responsible. 

The Police standing mute spectators are to be blamed.

The people not maintaining patience and control over themselves are also to be blamed.

• The administration who have planned for the arrangements should have provided for some control mechanism in case of overcrowding.
• They should not have shut down the gates for pilgrims to facilitate CM's visit and dip. They could have as well allowed them in small batches to reach the ghat and take their dips. It should not be a problem for CM's protection and security.
• The police should have kept their attention on the moving people and should have facilitated safe and peaceful movement, especially taking care of women, children, and weaker people.

Crowd Management for Kumbh Mela

Each year, you come across incidents of stampede and loss of lives. Even then, you are not learning the mechanism of crowd control. It shows carelessness of the administrations as well as lack of self-control among people.

People can't wait till their turn patiently. They want to do it immediately and think others are not interested and so not doing it fast. 

At cinema theatres, you see people climbing overheads to reach the counter to purchase tickets as if you are simply standing there and not interested in moving forward.

At temples, people are in the queue. But, you think they are not going forward and you may be trying to push them forward, and at times, you may even climb over their heads to reach forward.

You can't wait for some time as the queue is moving slowly. Why all this?

What to Do

• The administration should learn from past experiences by studying the cases of similar incidents and collect knowledge regarding what methods can be applied to such situations of crowd management
• Arrangements should not be centered around facilitating VIP visits only. Elaborate well-planned measures should be employed to tackle unexpected burst of crowds. The attitude of buttering to VIPs should be discarded and they should think for the welfare of all people collectively.
• If special treatments are to be given to VIPs, it does not mean depriving the rights of common man. So, protection to VIP can be offered, but at the same time, equal concern for the public should also be kept in mind by these organizers.
• Coming to Police, they should always be well prepared for disaster management with adequate staff, equipment, and smart attitudes also.
• The police should be present in small groups or batches at every point and corner of these public gatherings so as to be able to control their movements.
• Queue systems and barricades can be erected for safe passage of people in a controlled manner.
• Remember that crowd management does not mean stopping their movement or hindering their paths with obstructions. It means ensuring smooth flow of people without stopping them.
• You can learn from the traffic police. Just like they control the flow of traffic on roads, you need to manage the flow of people who are moving with their feet here on the ground. 
• The staff managing the queue can give break for a minute or two in between and then again allow the movements and again give some break and thereafter allow some, like that. 
• The main purpose is to facilitate free movement without overcrowding at a single spot.
• We, as public also have our own responsibilities. We need to be self-controlled and well disciplined. 
• Think of people around you and consider their own job also as important as of yours. 
• Always try to be generous and kind and be of some help to people around you.

12 Names of Hanuman to Get Rid of Fear | Hanuman Dwadasa Nama Stotram

Hanuman Dwadasa Nama Stotram is a hymn that contains 12 names of Lord Hanuman.

Many practices are followed by religious minded or even common people to get rid of the fear or to get protection from the various problems of life.

Some people wear yantras or lockets offered by holy people, sadhus, and priests. Some others recite mantras prescribed for these purposes as mentioned in our Vedas and Puranas.

One such method of chanting mantras or hymns is that of the reciting of the 12 names of Lord Hanuman which are recited along with another small concluding hymn or sloka to proclaim 'Amen' to the wish so that it will yield fruitful and divine results.

As usual, I am presenting this stotram also in all the three languages of English, Telugu, and Hindi with meanings in English.


Hanuman Twelve Name Hymns in English Text

Hanumaan, anjanaasoonuhu, vaayuputrO, mahaabalaha,
RaamEshta, phalguNa sakhaha, pingaakshO, amita vikramaha,
udadhi kramaNaschaiva, Sitaa shoka vinaashakaha,
laxmaNa praaNa daataacha, dashagreevasya darpahaa ||

dwaadashaitaani naamaani kapeendrasya mahaatmanaha
swaapakaalE pathErnityam yaatraa kaalE vishEshataha
tasya mrityur bhayam naasti sarvatra vijayee bhavEth
budhhirbalam yashOdhairyam nirbhayatvam arOgataa
azaadyam vaakpatutvamcha Hanumad smaraNaat bhavEth ||
                                              
Sri Rama Jaya Rama Jaya Jaya Rama ||


Hanuman Stotram in Telugu

హనుమాన్, అంజనాసూనుహు, వాయుపుత్రో, మహాబలః: 
రామేష్ఠ, ఫల్గుణ సఖః, పింగాక్షో, అమిత విక్రమః 
ఉదధి క్రమణ శ్చ్చైవ, సీతా శోక వినాశకః 
లక్ష్మణ ప్రాణ దాతాచ, దశగ్రీవస్య దర్పహా ॥ 
ద్వాదశైతాని నామాని కపింద్రస్య మహాత్మనః 
స్వాపకాలే పటేర్నిత్యం యాత్ర కాలే విశేషతః  
తస్య మృత్యుర్భయం నాస్తి సర్వత్ర విజయీ భవేత్ ( 3 సార్లు )
బుద్ధిర్బలం యశో ధైర్యం నిర్భయత్వం అరోగతా 
అజాడ్యం వాక్పటుత్వం చ హనుమత్ స్మరణాత్ భవేత్ ॥  
                            

శ్రీ రామ జయరామ జయజయ రామ ॥ 


Hanuman dwadasa stotram in Hindi

हनुमान, अन्जनासूनुहु, वायुपुत्रो, महाबलः 
रामेष्ट, फल्गुण सखः, पिन्गाक्षो, अमित विक्रमः 
उदधि क्रमणश्चैव, सीता शोक विनाशकः 
लक्ष्मण प्राण दाताच, दशग्रीवस्य दर्पहा ॥ 
द्वादशैतानि नामानि कपीन्द्रस्य महात्मनः 
स्वापकाले पठे नित्यम् यात्र काले विशेषतः 
तस्य मृत्त्रुर्भयम् नास्ति सर्वत्र विजयी भवेत् ( तीन बार )
बुद्धिर्बलम् यशोधैर्यम् निर्भयत्वम् अरोगता 
अजाड्यम् वाक्पटुत्वम्च हनुमत स्मरणात् भवेत् ॥ 


श्रीराम जयराम जयजय राम ॥   



Meanings in English

Hanuman = O Hanumaan, anjanaasunuhu = son of Anjana(mother), vayuputro = O son of Vayu(wind),
mahaabalaha = possessor of great strength, Rameshta = liked by Rama, phalguna = Arjuna, great warrior of Mahabharata epic, sakha = friend, pingaaksho = brown eyed (derived from ceramics),
amita = boundless, vikramaha =  brave warrior, udadhi = sea, kramanaschaiva = after crossing, Sita = consort of Rama, shoka = grief, vinaashakaha = one who destroyed, laxmana = brother of Rama, praana = life, daatacha = bestower, dashagreevasya = ten headed Ravana's , darpahaa = pride remover.

dwaadashaitani = all these twelve, naamaani = names, kapeendrasya = of Hanuman, mahatma = great soul, swaapakaale = morning time, pathernityam = recite daily, yatra kaale = during journey, visheshataya = especially, tasya = to him, mrityur = death and, bhayam = fear, naasti = will not be there, sarvatra = everywhere, vijayee = victory, bhaveth = take place or happen, budhirbalam = wisdom and strength, yashodhairyam = fame and bravery, nirbhayatvam = fearlessness, arogataa = no disease, azaadyam = no infection, vaakpatutvam = command over speech, Hanumat smaranaath = remembering Hanuman, bhaveth = will happen.

So, the entire meaning of above hymns will be like this:-

O Hanuman, son of Anjana and Vayu! You possess great strength.
Liked by Rama, you are the friend of Arjuna, the great warrior of Mahabharata.
You are brown eyed and a boundless brave personality.
Crossing the sea, you removed Sita's grief.
You gave life to Laxmana. Driven out the pride of Ten-Headed Ravana.

All these are the twelve names of the great-souled monkey king Hanuman.
Whoever recites them daily morning and especially during the journeys,
There will be no death or fear to him and there will be victory always.
Wisdom, strength, fame, courage, fearlessness; no diseases nor
infections; command over language; he will obtain all these virtues by reciting Hanuman names.