Vishnu Sahasranamam

|| atha sakala saubhagya dayaka shri vishnu sahasranama stotram ||

Part 1 (from tradition)

Om

Shuklaam Bharadharam Vishnum Sashivarnam Chathurbhujam
Prasanna Vadanam Dhyayeth Sarva Vigno pashanth-aye || 1 ||

One should meditate for the removal of all obstacles upon Vishnu who is clad in white garments, who has a lustre like the moon, who has four arms and a beneficent face

yasya dviradha vaktradya pariṣhadya parah-shatam |

vighnaṃ nighnanti satataṃ vishvaksenam tama-shraye || 2 ||

I take refuge in Vishvaksena who always eliminates all hindrances,

The commander of the elephant-faced attendants and the numerous others

Vyasam Vashita Naptharam Shakte Poutra-makalma-sham
Para-sharath-majam Vande Shuka-thathum Tapo-nidhim || 3 ||

Vyasa is the great grandson of Vasishta and the grandson of Shakti. He is the son of Parasara and the father of Suka. I offer my obeisance to the Vyasa who is free from all defects and is a repository of austerities

Vyasaya Vishnu Roopaya Vyasa-roopaya Vishanave
Namo-vai Brahmani-dhaye Vasishthaya Namo-namaha || 4 ||

My repeated salutations to Vyasa who is the form of Vishnu and to Vishnu who is the form of Vyasa - sage Vyasa who is a descendant of Vasistha and who is a treasure of Knowledge of Brahman

Avikaraya Shuddhaya Nithyaya Paramathmane
Sadhaika Roopa Roopaya Vishnave Sarvajishnave || 5 ||

I offer my obeisance to Vishnu, Who is devoid of all mutations, Who is by nature pure and eternal, Who is endowed with a form which is uniform at all times and Who is the victor over all

Yasya Smarana Mathrena Janma Samsara Bandhanath
Vimuchyathe Namas Thasmai Vishnave Prabha Vishanve
Om Namo Vishnave Praba Vishnave || 6 ||

My salutations to that Supreme Being Vishnu, by a mere though of Whose name all persons are freed from the bonds of Samsara. Salutations to the omnipotent Being Who is signified by the Pranava

Part 2 (from Mahabharata)

Shree Vaisham Payana Uvacha
Shruthva Dharmana Seshena Pavananicha Sarvashaha
Yudhishtara Shanthanavam Punarevabya Bashatha || 7 |

Sri Vaishampayana said - Having heard all the Dharmas in their entirety (without anythinghaving been left out) and having learnt about all purificatory acts, Yudhisthira again addressed Bhishma as follows;

Yudhishtira Uvacha
Kimekam Daivatham Loke Kim Vapyekam Parayanam
Sthuvantha Kam Kamarchanda Prapnuyur Manava Shubam || 8 ||

Yudhisthira said: Who is the One Supreme Being which the Scriptures declare? What is the one Supreme Goal which should be sought? By the recitation of what mantra is a person released from the bonds of repeated birth and death? Which in your opinion is the highest form of religion?

Go Dharma Sarva Dharmanam Bhavatha Paramo Mathaha
Kim Japan Muchyathe Janthur Janma Samsara Bandhanath || 9 ||

What spiritual path is that, which according to thy judgment is the foremost of all paths? What are those mantras by reciting which a being becomes freed from the bonds of birth and death

Shree Bheeshma Uvacha

Jagath Prabhum Deva Devam Antham Purushothamam
Sthuvan Nama Sahasrena Purusha Saththo Thithaha || 10 ||

Bhishma said: A person who is always engaged in praising with the hymn of a Thousand Names; the Lord of the Universe, the God of gods, and the limitless Supreme Being,

Thameva Char Chayanth Nithyam Bhakthya Purusha Mavyayam
Dhayayan Sthuvan Namasyamsha Yajamanas Thamevacha || 11 ||

And engaged in worshipping Him with devotion, meditating upon Him, glorifying Him, offering obeisance and adoring Him,

Anadhinidhanam Vishnum Sarva Lokamahesvaram
Lokadhyaksham Sthuvan Nithyam Sarva Dhukka Thigo Bhaveth || 12 ||

one who is ever engaged in praising the Lord who is without beginning and end, the Allpervading-One, the Ruler of the Universe, the Supervisor of the worlds, the One Who is to be known from the Vedas, Who is Himself the Knower of all Dharmas, the One Who is constantly engaged in the Universal Welfare, Lord of the Universe, and the Cause of all beings - such a devotee transcends over all the sorrows of this material world.

Brahmanyam Sarva Dharmangyam Lokanam Keerthivardhanam
Lokanatham Mahath Bhootham Sarva Bhootha Bhavothbhavam || 13 ||

Verily He is champion of the devotees, conversant with all duties and injunctions, the enhancer of fame and achievement of all people, the master of all the universe, exceedingly wonderful, and the cause of the origination of all beings

Esha Me Sarvadharmanam Dharmodhi Kathamo Mathaha
Yath Bhakthya Pundari Kaksham Sthavai Rar-Chen Nara Ssatha || 14 ||

This worship of the Supreme Lotus-eyed Lord at all times by a person endowed with devotion is regarded by me as the greatest of all religious practices

Paramam Yo Mahath Teja Paramam Yo Mahath Thapaha
Paramam Yo Mahath Brahma Paramam Ya Parayanam || 15 ||

He Who is the Supreme Effulgence; Who is the Supreme Director; Who is the Supreme Brahman; and Who is the Supreme, Highest and Ultimate Goal;

Pavithram Pavithram Yo Mangalanancha Mangalam
Daivatham Devathanancha Bhoothanam Yovyaya Pitha || 16 ||

He Who is the purest of the pure and the most auspicious amongst the auspicious, The God of gods and the indestructible Progenitor of all beings

Yatha Sarvani Bhoothani Bhavanthyadhi Yugagame
Yasmimscha Pralayam Yanthi Punareva Yugakshaye || 17 ||

From Whom all beings originate in the beginning of the first Yuga and in Whom they merge again at the end of the Yuga

Thasya Loka Pradhanasya Jagan-Nadhasya Bhoopathe
Vishnor Nama Sahasrm Me Srunu Papa Bhayapaham || 18 ||

O King! Hear from me the Thousand Names which remove sins and drive away fear. The appellations of that Vishnu, Lord of the Universe and Ruler of the World

Yani Namani Gounani Vikyathani Mahathmanaha
Rushibhi Parigeerthani Thani Vakshayami Bhoothaye || 19 ||

For the good of the world, I shall tell you the holy names of the Supreme Being, which are indicative of His attributes and glory, well known and recited by the Rishis

Part 3 (from tradition)

Rushirnamnam Sahasrasya Vedhavyaso Mahamunihi
Chchando-Nushtup Thadha Dhevo Bhaghavan Dhevagee-Suthaha || 20 ||

The Great Vedavyasa is the Seer of these Thousand Names of Vishnu, the metre is the anushtup, the Presiding Deity is Lord Krishna the son of Devaki

Amrutham Soothbhavo Bheejam Shakthir Dhevaki Nandhanaha
Thrisama Hrudhayam Thasya Shanthyarthe Viniyujyathe || 21 ||

The seed is He-who-was-born-in-the-lunar-race; its power is The Name, The-son-of-Devaki. The heart is the One-who-is-lauded-by-the-three-Sama-hymns, The purpose of its use is the attainment of peace

Vishnum Jishnum Mahavishnum Prabhavishum Maheswaram
Anaika Roopa Dhaithyantham Namami Purushoth-Thamam || 22 ||

I pay my obeisance to Vishnu, the Victorious, the All-pervading One, the Mighty, the Lord of all, the enemy of the demons of many forms and the Best of Persons

Nyasam

Asya Sree Vishnor Dhivya Sahasranama Sthothra Mahamanthrasya                    - touch the forehead
Sri Vedhavyaso Bhagavan Rishihi
anushtup Ch-Chandaha                                                                                               - touch the mouth
Sri Mahavishnu Paramathma Sirman Narayano Devatha                                            - touch the heart
Amrutham Shoothbavo Banurithi Beejam                                                                   - touch the navel
Devakee Nandhan Srashtethi Sakthihi                                                                     - touch the genitals
Uthbava Kshobhano Deva Ithi Paramo Manthraha                                                    - touch the mouth
Shankbhruth Nandhkee Chakreethi Keelakam                                                          - touch the ankles
Sharngadhanva Gadhadhara Ithyasthram                                                                     - clap the hands
Radhangapani Rakshobhya Ithi Nethram                                      - touch the forehead with the thumb
Thrisama Samaka Samethi Kavacham                                                                 - touch the shoulders
Aanandam Parbrahmethi Yonihi                                                                             - touch the genitals
Rudhu Sudharsank Kaala Ithi Dhigbandhaha                         - snap the fingers and encircle the head
Sri Viswaroopa Ithi Dhyanam                                                                                       - join the palms

Sri Mahavishnup Preethyarthe Sahasra Nama Jape Viniyogaha        - rotate the joined palms inward

Dhyanam

Ksheerodhanvath Pradhese Susi Mani Vilasath Saikathe Mouthikanam
Malak Lupthasanastha Spatikamani-Nibair Moukthikair Mandithaangaha

Suprai Rbhrai Radhaprai Ruprivirasithair Muktha Bheeyuusha Varshaihi
Anandheenap Puneeyaa Dhari Nalina Gadha Shankapaanir Mukundhaha

Bhoop-Paathau Yasya Nabhir Viyadhasoora-Nilach-Chandra Sauryau Cha Nethre
Karnavasa Siro Dhyaur-Mukamapi Dhahano Yasya Vaastheyamapdhihi

Andhastham Yasya Vishvam Soor-Nara-Khaga-Gho-Bhogi-Gandharva-Dhaithyaihi
Chitram Ramramyathe Tham Thribhuvan-Vapusham Vishnu Meesham Namaami

Om namo bhahvate vasudevaya

Shaanthakaram Bhujagasayanam Padhmanabham Suresam
Vishwadharam Gaganasadhrusham Megavarnam Subhangam

Lakshmi Kantham Kamalanayanam Yogihrudhyana Gamyam
Vandhe Vishnum Bavabayaharm Sarvalokaikanadham

Megha Shyamam Peetha Kausheya VchamShree Vatsangam Kausthubho Bhasithangam
Punyopetham Pundari Kayadaksham Vishnum Vande Sarva Lokaika Natham

Namas Samastha Bhothanam Adi Bhoothaya Bhoo Bruthe
Aneka Roopa Roopaya Vishanve Prabha Vishnave

Shashanka Chakram Saka Reeta Kundalam Sappetha Vasthram Sarasi Ruheshanam
Shara Vaksha Sthala Shobhi Kausthubam Namami Vishnum Shirasa Chathurbhujam

Chayayam Parijathasya Hema Simhasano Parihi
Aasina Mam-Bhutha-Shyama-Mayadaksha Malankrutham

Chandrananam Chathur Bhahum Shree Vatsanghitha Vakshasam
Rukmini Sathyabhamabhyam Sahitham Kirshnamasraye

Part 4 (Sahasranama)                              Stotram

Om vishwasmai namah

Vishvam Vishnur Vashatkaro Bhootha Bhavya Bhavath Prabhuhu
Bhoothakruth Bhoothabruth Bhavo Bhoothatma Bhootha Bhavanaha || 1 ||

Bhoothatma Paramathma Cha Mukthanam Parama Gathihi
Avya Yapurusha Sakshi Kshetrgno Ksharo Evacha || 2 ||

Yogo Yoga Vitham Netha Prdhana Purusheshwaraha
Narasimha Vabhu Shreeman Keshava Purushothamaha || 3 ||

Sarva Sharvash Shivas Sthanur Bhoothathir Nidhira Vyahayaha
Sambhavo Bhavono Bartha Prabava Prabhureeshwaraha || 4 ||

Swambu Shambur Adithya Pushkaraksho Mahasvanaha
Anadhi Nidhano Dhath Vidhath Dhathu Ruthmaha || 5 ||

Appreyo Rishi Keshah Padmnabho Mara Prabhuhu
Visha Karma Manusthvastha Sthavishta Shtaviro-Dhruvaha || 6 ||

Agrahya Sashvatha Krishno Lokidaksh Pradhr Dhanaha
Prabhuth Shrikuthama Pavithrm Manglam Param || 7 ||

Eashana Pranadha Prano Jyeshta Shreshta Praja Pathihi
Hiran Ya Garbho Bhoo Gahrbho Madhavo Madhu Sudhanaha || 8 ||

Ishvaro Vikrami Thanvi Medavi Vikrma Kramaha
Anuththamo Duradarsha Kruthangya Kruthi-Raathmavan || 9 ||

Suresha Sharnam Sharma Vishva Retha Prajabhvaha
Ahath Samvathsaro Wyallaha Prathyas Sarvadharshanaha || 10 ||

Ajas Sarvesh Varas Sidhas Sidhi Sarva Dhiru Chithaha
Vrusha Gabhir Meyathma Sarva Yoga Vinisruthaha || 11 ||

Vasur Vasumanas Sathya Samathma Sammitha-Samaha
Amoga Pundarikaksho Vrushkarma Vrushakruthihi || 12 ||

Rudro Bahushira Babrur Viswayoni Suchichrvaha
Amrudha Sachvadha Sthanur Vraroha Mahathapaha || 13 ||

Sarvakaha Sarvavidhbaanur Vishwakseno Janardhanaha
Vedo Veda Vidhav Yango Vedango Vedvith Kavihi || 14 ||

Loka Dhyakshas Surdhyaksho Dharma Dhyaksho Krutha Kruthaha
Chathurathma Chathur Vyuhachathur Thamshta Chathur Bhujaha || 15 ||

Prajishur Bhojanam Bhoktha Sahishnur Jagatha Thijaha
Anako Vijayo Jetha Vishva Yoni Punarvasuhu || 16 ||

Upendro Vamaha Pramshur Amogash Shsirurjithaha
Atheendras Sangrahas Sargo Dhruthatma Niyamo Yamaha || 17 ||

Vedyo Vaidyas-Sada-Yogi Veeraha Madhavo Madhuhu
Atheendriyo Mahamayo Mahothsaho Mahabalaha || 18 ||

Mahabuthir Mahaveeryo Mahashakthir Mahathyuthihi
Anir Deshya Vabhu Shreema-Nameyathma Maha-Thri-Dhruk || 19 ||

Maheshvaso Maheebartha Shreenivasa Satham Gathihi
Aniruddas Surananndo Govindo Gvindam Pathihi || 20 ||

Marichir Thamano Hamsas Superno Pujagothamaha
Hiranya Nabhas Suthapa Padmanabha Prajapthihi || 21 ||

Amruthyus Sarva-Dhruk Simha-Sandhatha Sandhimam-Stiraha
Ajo Durmarshanas-Shastha Vishruthatma Surariha || 22 ||

Gurur Gurthamo Thama Sathyas Sathya Parakramaha
Nimisho Nimishas Sragvi Vachaspathi Rutharathee || 23 ||

Agraneer Gramanee Shreeman Nyayo Netha Sameeranaha
Sahasra Murtha Vishvatma Sahas-Rakshas-Sahasrapath || 24 ||

Aavarthano Nivruthathma Samvradhas Sampra Mardhanaha
Ahas Samvarthako Vahni-Ranilo Dharani Dharaha || 25 ||

Suprasada Prasanathma Vishwasruk Vishvabhuk Vibhuhu
Sathkartha Sathkrudhas Sadhur Janhoor Naryano Naraha || 26 ||

Asangeyo Prameyathma Vishista Shista Kruch-Chuchihi
Siddhartha Siddha Sankalpa Siddhida-Siddhi Sadhanaha || 27 ||

Vrushahee Vrushabho Vishnur Vrushaparva Vrusho Dharaha
Varthano Varthamanaksha Vivikta Shruth Sagaraha || 28 ||

Subhujo Dhurtharo Vakmi Mahendhro Vasudo Vasuhu
Naikarupo Bruhathroopas Sibhivishta Praksanaha || 29 ||

Ojas-Thejo Dhyuuthidhara Prakashatma Pratapanaha
Ruddhas Spashta-Ksharo Manthra-Chandramshur Bhaskarathdhyuthihi || 30 ||

Amrutham Shudh Bhavo Bhanu Shashabindu Sureshwaraha
Aushadham Jagadha Sethu Sathya Dharma Parakramaha || 31 ||

Bhoothabhavya Bhavannatha Pavana Pavano Nalaha
Kamaha Kamakruth Kantha Kama Kamapratha Prabhuhu || 32 ||

Yugadikruth Yugavartho Naika Mayo Mahasanaha
Athrushyo Vyaktha Roopashcha Sahasrajita Nandajith || 33 ||

Ishto Vishishta Thisteshta Shikandi Nahursho Vrushaha
Krodhaha Krodhakruth Kartha Vishva Bahoor Mahitharaha || 34 ||

Achyutha Prathitha Pranaha Pranatho Vasuvanujaha
Apam-Nidi Rathishtana Mapramatha Prathishtithaha || 35 ||

Skandaha Skandadaro Duryo Varado Vau Vahanaha
Vaasudevo Bruhath Banur Adi Deva Purandaraha || 36 ||

Ashokas Stharanas Thara Shura Shurir Janeswaraha
Anukoola Shathavartha Padmi Padma Nibhekshanaha || 37 ||

Padmanabho Ravindaksha Padmagarba Sharirabruth
Maharthrir Ruthro Vruthathma Mahaksho Garudadvajaha || 38 ||

Atula Sharabo Bheema Samayagno Havir Harhi
Sarva Lakshana Lakshañyo Lakshmivan Samithanjayaha || 39 ||

Viksharo Rohitho Margo Hethur Damodara Sahaha
Maheetharo Mahabhogo Vegavanami Thashanaha || 40 ||

Uthbhava Shobhano Deva Shreegarba Parmeshvaraha
Karanam Karanam Kartha Vikartha Gahnoguhaha || 41 ||

Vyavasayovyvasthanas Samasthana Sthando Druvaha
Pararthi Parama Spastha Dushta Pushta Subhekshanaha || 42 ||

Ramo Viramo Viratho Margo Neyo Nayo Nayaha
Veera Shakthimatham Sreshto Dharmo Dharma Vithuthamaha || 43 ||

Vaikunta Purusha Prana Pranadha Pranava Prathuhu
Hiranyagharbha Shtrugno Vyapto Vayu Rthokshajaha || 44 ||

Ruthu Sudarshana Kala Parameshti Parikrahaha
Ugra Smavatsaro Daksho Vishramo Vishva Dakshinaha || 45 ||

Vishthara Sthavaras-Sthanu Pramanam Beejama Vyayam
Artho Nartho Mahakosho Mahabhogo Mahadhanaha || 46 ||

Anirvinna Sthavishtobua Dharmayubo Mahamakaha
Nakshathra Nemir Nakshthri Kshamaha Kshaamaha Smihanaha || 47 ||

Yagña Ejyo Mahejyascha Krathu Sathram Sathangkadhihi
Sarva-Darshee Vimukthathma Sarvagno Gnana-Muth-Thamam || 48 ||

Suvratha Sumuga Sookshma Sukosha Sukada Suhruth
Manoharo Jithakrodho Virabahur Vitharanaha || 49 ||

Swapna Swavasho Vyapi Naikathma Naik Karmakruth
Vatsaro Vathsalo Vatsee Rathnagarbo Dhaneswaraha || 50 ||

Dharmakrup Dharmakruth Dharmi Sathakshara Maksharam
Avignatha Sahasramshur Vidhata Krutha Lakshanaha || 51 ||

Gapasthinemi Sathvastha Simho Bhootha Maheswaraha
Aadi Devo Mahadevo Devesho Devabruthguruhu || 52 ||

Uththaro Gopathir Goptha Gnankamya Purathanaha
Sharira Bhoothabruth Bhoktha Kapindro Purdakshinaha || 53 ||

Somabo Mrudhapa Soma Purjith Purshothama
Vinayo Jaya Sathyando Darshaha Sathvatham Pathihi || 54 ||

Jeevo Vinayitha-Sakshi Mukundo Mita Vikramaha
Ambonidhi-Ranandhathmaa Maho-Dhadishayo-Ndhakaha || 55 ||

Ajo Mahaarha Swabhaavyo Jidaa Mitrah Pramodhanaha
Anando Nandano Nanda Satya Dharma Trivikramaha || 56 ||

Maharshi Kapila Acharya Kritagño Metini Pathihi
Tripada Tripaddhyaksho Maha Shrung Krutaantha Kruthu || 57 ||

Maha Varaho Govinda Sushenah Kanaka-Ngadhi
Ghuyo Gabeero Gahano Gupthash-Chakra Gadhadharaha || 58 ||

Vedha Swaango Jith Krishno Druda-Sankrshano-Chuthaha
Varuno Vaaruno Vruksha Pushkaraaksho Mahamanaha || 59 ||

Bhagavan Bhagaha-Nandhi Vana Malee Halaayudhaha
Aadhithyo Jyothir Adhitya Sahishnur Gadhisattamaha || 60 ||

Sudhanwa Kanda Parashur Dhaarundo Dhravinapradhaha
Divas-Sprug Sarva-Drug-Vyaso Vachaspathi-Rayonijaha || 61 ||

Trisaama Saamagah Saamah Nirvaanam Beshajam Bhishaku
Sanya-Sakruchama Shantho Nishta Shanthi Parayanam || 62 ||

Shubaangah Shaantidha Srashta kumudhah Kuvaleshayaha
Gohito Gopathir Goptha Vrushabaaksho Vrusha Priyaha || 63 ||

Anivathee Nivruthaatma Samkshepta Kshema-Krucchivaha
Sreevatsa-Vaksha Sreevasha Sreepati Sreemataam Varaha || 64 ||

Sridha Srishah Srinivasah Srinidhi Srivibha-Vanaha
Sridharah Srikarah Shreyah Shriman Loka-Trayashrayaha || 65 ||

Swaksha Swanga Shadanando Nandir Jyothir Ganeshwaraha
Vichitaatma Vidheyaatma Satkeertis Chinna Shamshayaha || 66 ||

Udeerna Sarvata-Chakshu-Raneesha Shaswata-Sthiraha
Bhooshayo Bhushano Bhoothir Vishoka Shoka Naashanaha || 67 ||

Archishma-Narchita kumbho Vishudhaatma Vishodhanaha
Aniruddho Pratirata Pradhyumno Mitavikramaha || 68 ||

Kalaneminiha Vira Shaurir Shoora Janeshwaraha
Trilokatma Trilokesha Keshava Keshiha Harihi || 69 ||

Kama Deva Kamapala Kamee Kantha Krutaagamha
Anirdheshyavapur-Vishur-Viro Anando Dhanan Jayaha || 70 ||

Bhramanyo Brahmankrud Brahma Brahma Brahma Vivardhanaha
Brahmavith Braahmano Brahmi Brahmagnyo Braamana Priyaha || 71 ||

Mahakramo Mahakarma Mahateja Mahoragaha
Maha-Krathur Mahayajva Mahayagno Maha Havihi || 72 ||

Stavya Stavapriya Sthothram Shthuthi Sthothaarana-Priyaha
Purna Purayitha Punya Punya Keerti Ranamayaha || 73 ||

Manojavas Theerthagaro Vasuredha Vasupradhaha
Vasupradho Vasudevo Vasur Vasumana-Havihi || 74 ||

Satgati Sathkriti Satta Satbooti Satparayanaha
Shoora Seno Yajushresta Sannivasa Suyamuhaha || 75 ||

Bhootavaso Vasudevo Sarvasu Nilayo Nalaha
Darphaha Darpadho Dhrupto Durdharo-Dhaparajitaha || 76 ||

Vishwa Murtir Mahamurthir Deeptamurtir-Amoortiman
Aneka Moorti-Ravyakta Shatamoorti Shataananaha || 77 ||

Eko Naika Sava Ka Kim Yatat Pada Manutta-Mam
Lokabhandhur Lokanatho Madhavo Bhaktha Vatsalaha || 78 ||

Suvarnavarno Hemaango Varangash Santha Nangathi
Veeraha Visham Shoonyo Drutashee Rachalas Chalaha || 79 ||

Amani Mandho Manyo Lokswami Trilokdhruk
Sumedha Medhajo Dhanya Satya Medha Dhara-Dharaha || 80 ||

Tejovrusho Dhyudhidhara Sarva-Shastra-Brudam Varaha
Pragraho Nigraho Vyagro Naika Shrungo Gadha-Grajaha || 81 ||

Chaturmurti Chaturbahu Chaturvyuha Chatur Gathihi
Chatur Aatma Chturbhava Chturveda Videkapat || 82 ||

Samavarto Nivruttatma Durjayo Duradikramaha
Dhurilabo Durgamo Durgo Duravaso Durariha || 83 ||

Shubaango Lokasaranga Sthuthantus Tantu Vardhanaha
Indra Karma Mahakarma Krutakarma Krutagamaha || 84 ||

Uthbhava Sundara Sundho Ratna Nabha Sulochanaha
Arko Vajasana Shrungi Jayantu Sarva Vijjayee || 85 ||

Suvarna Bindhurakshobya Sarva Vageshwara Shwaraha
Mahahrudho Mahakartho Mahabhootho Mahanidhihi || 86 ||

kumudha Kundhara Kundha Parjanya Pavano Nilaha
Amrutasho Mrutavapu Sarvagnya Sarvato Mukhaha || 87 ||

Sulabha Suvrata Siddha Shatrujit Shatrutapanaha
Nyakrodho Dumbaro Chwaththas Chanuraan-Dhranishoo Dhanaha || 88 ||

Shasrarchi Saptjihva Saptaida Sapta Vahanaha
Amoorti-Ranakho Chindyo Bhaya-Krut Bhayanashanaha || 89 ||

Anur Bruhat Krusha Sthoolo Guna Brun Nir-Guno-Mahan
Adhruta Svadruta Svasya Pragvamso Vamsa-Vardhanaha || 90 ||

Bharabrut Kathitho Yogi Yogeesha Sarva-Kamadhaha
Ashrama Shramana Kshama Suparno Vayu Vahanaha || 91 ||

Dhanurdharo Dhanurvedho Dando Damayita Damaha
Aparajita Sarvashaho Niyantha Niyamo Yamaha || 92 ||

Satvavaan Satvika Satya Satya Dharma Parayanaha
Abhipr Aya Priyar Horha Priyakrit Preetivardhanaha || 93 ||

Vihaya Sagatir Jyoti Suruchir Huta Bug Vibhuhu
Ravir Virochana Surya Savitha Ravi-Lochanaha || 94 ||

Ananta Hutabuk Bhoktha Sugadho Naikajhograjaha
Anirvirna Sadhamasrshi Lokhadhistana-Madhbutaha || 95 ||

Sanat Sanat-Anamah Kapila Kapiravyaha
Svastidah Svatikrut Svasti Svastibuk Svasti Dakshinaha || 96 ||

Aroudhra Kundali Chakri Vikram Yurjitha Shasanaha
Shabdhatika Shabtasaha Shishira Sarva-Reekaraha || 97 ||

Akroora Peshalo Daksho Dakshinaha Kshminam Varaha
Vidhvatthamo Veedhabhaya Punya-Shravana Keertanaha || 98 ||

Uttarano Dushkruthiha Punyo Dur-Swapna Nashanaha
Veeraha Rakshna Sandho Jivana Paryasthithaha || 99 ||

Anantharoopo-Nanthasreer Jithamanyur Bayapahaha
Chathurasro Gabheerathma Ivdhisho Vyadhsho Dhisaha || 100 ||

Anathir Bhoorbhavo Lakshmi Suviro Ruchirangadhaha
Janano Jana-Janmadir Bhimo Bhima Parakramaha || 101 ||

Adara Nilayo Dhatha Pushpa Hasa Praja-Garaha
Urdhvaga Satpata Chara Pranadha Pranava Pranaha || 102 ||

Pramanam Prana Nilaya Pranabrut Prana Jivanaha
Tatvam Tatva Videkatma Janma Mrutyu Jarathigaha || 103 ||

Bhoorbhuva Svastha-Srusthara Savita Prapitamahaha
Yogño Yagñapatir Yajva Yagnango Yagna Vahanaha || 104 ||

Yagñabrudth Yagñakruth Yagñee Yagñabhug Yagña Sadhanaha
Yagnandha-Krudh Yagna-Guhya Manna-Mannadha Evacha || 105 ||

Atmayoni Svayam Jato Vaikhana Samagayanaha
Devaki Nandhana Shruasta Kshideesha Papa Nashanaha || 106 ||

Sanghabrun Nandagi Chakri Sharnga Dhanva Gadha Dharaha
Rathanga Pani Rakshobhya Sarva Prharanayudhaha || 107 ||

Sarva Prharanayudha Om Nama Ithi

Vana Mali Gadhi Sharngi Shangi Chakri Chanandhagi
Shreeman Narayano Vishnur Vasudeva Abhirakshathu || 108 ||

(Repeat Three Times)

Part 5 (Phala Shruti)                   Uttara Bhāgaḥ

Itheetham Kirtaniyasya Keshavasya Mahatmanaha
Namnam Sahasram Divyanam Asheshena Prakeertitham || 1 ||

Bhishma said - Thus the thousand divine names of Bhagavan Krsna, the Supreme Being who is supremely worthy of being praised, have been chanted in their entirety

Ya Idham Shrunuya Nityam Yaschabhi Parikeertayeth
Nashubam Prapnuyath Kimchit Somutreha-Cha-Manavaha || 2 ||

Whoever hears or recites these names daily will never accrue any inauspiciousness, either in this world or the world beyond

Vedhaantago Bhramana-Syat Kshatriyo Vijayee Bhavet
Vaishyo Dhana Samruta-Syat Shoodhra Sukha-Mavapnuyat || 3 ||

From this recitation the Brahmin will obtain knowledge of the Vedanta, a Ksatriya will attain victory, the Vaishya will become wealthy and the Sudra will enjoy immense happiness

Dharmarthi Prapnuath Dharma Marthaarthi Charthmapnuyath
Kama-Navapnuyat Kami Prajarti Chapnuyat Prajam || 4 ||

The chanter who desires merit will obtain it, the desirer of wealth will get riches, the seeker of gratification of the senses will attain all of them, and the seeker of progeny will be successful

Bhaktiman Ya Sathodhdaya Shuchi-Sthagahamanasaha
Sahasram Vasudevasya Namna-Metath Prakeertayedh || 5 ||

If one who is very devoted to the Lord, rises early in the morning and purifies himself, (with the bath and observance of the daily rituals) then with his mind firmly fixed on Lord Vasudeva, he recites the thousand names of Vasudeva

Yasha Prapnoti Vipulam Yadhi Pradhanya-Mevacha
Achalam Shriya Mapnoti Shreya Praphnothya-Nuththamam || 6 ||

He becomes endowed with great reputation and becomes the foremost amongst his kith and kin. He acquires undiminished wealth in this world, and unexcelled prosperity (in the other world ie. Liberation)

Nabhayam Kvachitapnoti Veeryam Tejascha Vindhati
Bhavat-Yarogo Dyutiman Bala Roopa Gunanvitaha || 7 ||

There is no fear for him from any quarter. He acquires valour and power. He becomes endowed with strength, a healthy body and noble qualities

Rogarto Muchyate Rogath Baddho Muchyetha Bhandhanaath
Bhayan Muchyeta Bheethasthu Muchyetapana Apataha || 8 ||

One who is suffering from any disease will be rid of it. One who is in bondage will be released. One who is afflicted by fear will become courageous. And one who is in difficulties will surmount them

Durgan-Yadhitharat-Yashu Purusha Purushotamam
Stuvan Nama Sahasrena Nityam Bhakti Samanvitaha || 9 ||

If a person is exclusively devoted to Sri Krsna and his only desire is to obtain Him, all his difficulties will automatically vanish even though he does not pray for any relief from them

Vasudevashrayo Martyo Vasudeva Parayanaha
Sarva Papa Vishuddhatma Yadhi Brahma Sanathanam || 10 ||

That person who has taken refuge in Vasudeva, and who thinks that Vasudeva is the highest goal to be reached, becomes cleansed of all sins and his mind becomes pure. He finally attains the eternal beatitud

Na Vasudeva Bhaktana-Mashubham Vidhyate Kvachith
Janma Mrutyu Jara Vyadhi Bhayam Naivo Pajayathe || 11 ||

Nothing inauspicious ever occurs to the devotees of Krsna. Nor do they have any fear from birth and death or old age and disease

Imam Sthava-Madheeyana Shraddha Bhakti Samanvitaha
Yujyetatma Sukha Kshanti Shree-Dhriti Smruti Keertibhihi || 12 ||

That person who chants this Hymn with Zeal and Devotion, becomes blessed with the happiness of the self, forbearance, riches, steadiness of mind, good memory, and great fame

Nakrodho Na Cha Matsaryam Na Lobho Nashubha Pathihi
Bhavanthi Kruta Punyanam Bhaktanam Purushottame || 13 ||

There is nothing good which is superior to devotion to Lord Govinda. Neither anger nor jealousy, neither greed nor evil thoughts, haunt the minds of those people who are true devotees of Krsna, and who have acquired merit by virtuous deeds

Dhyausa Chandhrarka Nakshtra Kamdhisho Bhoor Mahodatihi
Vasudevasya Veeryena Vidrutani Mahatmanaha || 14 ||

The firmament, along with the moon, the Sun and the stars, the sky , the directions, earth and the great ocean - all, are supported by the power of Vasudeva the Supreme Lord

Sa-Sooraasoora Gandharvam Sa-Yakshorka Raakshasam
Jagathvase Varthathetham Krushnasya Sasarasaram || 15 ||

This world along with all the sentient and insentient objects, with gods, asuras and gandharvas,as well as yakshas, and rakshasas is under the control of Sri Krsna

Indhriyani Mano Buddhi Satyam Tejo Balam Dhrithihi
Vasudevatmakan Yahoohu Kshetram Kshetrangya Evacha || 16 ||

The sense organs, mind, intellect, (the quality of) sattva, power, strength, stability, as well as the body and the individual soul all have Vasudeva as their indweller

Sarvakamana Machara Prathamam Parikalphithaha
Achara Prabhavo Dharmo Dharmasya Prabhurachyuthaha || 17 ||

Right conduct has been laid down as the most important of, and the foremost of all the dharmas revealed by the Shastras (the valid and authoritative texts). Right conduct gives rise to dharma, and Bhagavan Krsna is the Lord of all dharma

Rushay Pitharo Devo Mahabhootani Dhatavaha
Jangama Jangamam Chedham Jagan Naryanodh Bhavam || 18 ||

The sages, Pitaras ( departed ancestors), gods, the Great Elements, and their effects, the moving and the non-moving objects which comprise the entire universe — all have been projected from Narayana

Yogo Gyanam Tada Saankhyam Vidhya Shilpadhi Karmacha
Vedha Shaastrani Vigyana Metat Sarvam Janardhanath || 19 ||

The knowledge of yoga, Sankhya, arts, works, Vedas and Shastras - a knowledge of all these springs from Bhagavan Krsna

Eko Vishnur Mahat Bhootam Pruthak Bhootani Yenekashaha
Treen Lokan Vyapata Bhootatma Bungthe Vishva Bhugavyaha || 20 ||

Vishnu is the unique and unparalleled deity in that he pervades the great elements of different kinds and the three worlds of existence. He is the Supersoul of all beings and their Protector. Hetranscends all of them and is not touched by their defects thus He enjoys supreme bliss

Imam Shavam Bhaghavatho Vishnor Vyasena Keertidam
Padethya Ichchet Purusha Shreeya Prapthum Sukhani Cha || 21 ||

That person who desires to obtain supreme bliss and the pleasures of the world should recite this hymn of the Lord Vishnu sung by the great sage Vyasa

Vishveshra Majam Devam Jagadha Prabhu Vapuyayam
Bhajanthiye Pushkaraksham Nadheyanti Parabhavam || 22 ||
Nadheyanti Parabhava Om Nam Iti

The Lotus-eyed Lord is the Eternal Supreme Deity, the Ruler of the universe, and the cause of the creation and destruction of the universe. Those who chant his names will never meet with disrespect or discomfiture of any kind. Salutations to that Lord of all Auspiciousness

Part 6 (Mahabharata and tradition)

Arjuna Uvacha
Padma Patra Vishalaksha Padmanabha Surottama
Bhaktanam Anuraktanam Trata Bhava Janardhana || 23 ||

Arjuna said - O Krsna the greatest of gods with broad eyes like lotuses and with a lotus-like navel. Be you the saviour of your loving devotees

Shree Bhagavan Uvacha
Yo Maam Nama Shahasrena Shtotu Michathi Pandava
Sohamekena Slokena Stuta Evana Sumshayaha || 24 ||
Sthuta Evana Samshaya Om Nama Ithi

Sri Krsna said - O Arjuna a person may desire to praise me with this entire hymn of a thousand names, but I accept the praise of even one verse — there is no doubt about it

Vyasa Uvacha
Vasanaadh Vasudevasya Vasitam Bhuvanatrayam
Sarva Bhoota Nivasosi Vasudeva Namosthuthe || 25 ||
Sri Vasudeva Namosthutha Om Nama Ithi

Vyasa said - O Vasudeva! All three worlds have been created and are pervaded by you as Vasudeva. You are the resting place for all beings. Salutations to you ! Salutations to you O Vasudeva!

Parvati Uvacha
Kenopayena Lakhuna Visnor Nama Sahasrakam
Patyathe Pandithair Nityam Srothu Micchamyaham Prabho || 26 ||

Parvati said - What is the shortest method by which the thousand names of Vishnu are daily recited by learned men, please teach me O Lord Siva

Ishwara Uvacha
Shreerama Rama Ramethi Rame Rame Manorame
Sahasra Nama Thattulyam Rama Nama Varanane || 27 || (Repeat This Verse Three Times)
Shree Rama Nama Varanana Om Nama Ithi

Siva said - Sri Rama is the source of delight to the heart, I feel joy by repeating the name of Rama. Rama's name is indeed on a par to the Thousand Names O lovely faced Parvati.

Brahmo Uvacha
Namo Swananthaya Sahasra Murthaye Shasra Padakshi Siroru Bahave
Sahasra Namne Purushaya Saswate Sahasr Kodi Yugadarine Namaha || 28 ||
Sahasra Kodi Yuga Darine Nam Om Nama Ithi

Brahma said - Salutations to the Infinite Bhagavan, who has a thousand forms, a thousand feet, eyes. heads and arms, and who is the Eternal Being having a thousand names. Salutations to Him Who is the substratum of a billion ages. Salutations to the Auspicious Lord Who is the substratum of a billion eons

Sanjaya Uvacha
Etra Yogeshwara Krishno Yatra Partho Dhanur Dharaha
Tatra Shri Vijayo Bhutir Dhruva Neetir Mathir Mama || 29 ||

Sanjaya said - Where Sri Krsna the Lord of Yoga is and where Arjuna the archer is, there are found, stability, lustre, victory, prosperity and ethics. This is my considered view

Shree Bhagavan Uvacha
Ananya Shinttha Yantoma Yejana Paryu Pasathe
Tesham Nityabhiyuktanam Yogakshemam Vahamyaham || 30 ||

Sri Krsna said - With reference to those who find it impossible to live without thinking of me, I take the responsibility of bringing about their union with Me and of maintaining that union forever

Paritranaya Sadhunam Vinashaya Cha Dhushkrutam
Dharma Samsathapanarthaya Sambhavami Yuge Yuge || 31 ||

For the protection of the righteous and for the destruction of evil-doers, for the establishment of dharma I am born again and again in every age

Arta Vishanna sidhilascha Bheetha Koreshu Cha Vyathishu Vartamanaha
Samkeertya Narayana Shabta Matram Vimukta Dhukka Sukhino Bhavanthu

All those who are in adversity, sorrowful, who are at a loose end, frightened, terrified, or in the grip of disease, by simply chanting the name of Narayana they will be released from their suffering and will attain supreme beatitude

Kayena Vacha Manasendriyerva Budhyatma Nava Prakrute Swabhavath
Karomi Yadyat Sakalam Parasmai Narayanayetu Samarpayami.

Whatever action I may do through my hands, speech, mind, senses, intelligence or Self, by my nature or natural disposition, all of these I offer unto the Supreme Lord Narayana

Sri Sathya Sai Baba - When to say the Gayatri

Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ

Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt

Do not sing cheap and defiling film songs. Instead, recite the Gayatri. When you bathe, the body is being cleansed; let your mind and intellect also be cleansed. Make it a point to repeat it when you bathe as well as before every meal, when you wake from sleep, and when you go to bed. And also repeat shanthi (peace) thrice at the end, for that repetition will give peace to three entities in you --body, mind, and soul.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 13.34: June, 20, 1977]

Time, like man, has three qualities: satva, rajas, and tamas (qualities of purity or serenity, passion, and inaction). The day is divided into three parts:

·    4am to 8am and 4pm to 8pm have the sātvic quality

·    8am to 4pm are rājasic

·    8pm and 4am are tāmasic

The eight hours from 8pm to 4am are used mainly for sleep. The eight hours of the day (from 8am to 4pm) are employed by all
beings, including animals and birds, in the discharge of their day to day duties and are regarded as rājasic. When the four sātvic hours of the morning are used for engaging oneself in good actions like worship, virtuous deeds, and keeping good company, one is sure to raise oneself from the human to the Divine level. It is during the sātvic period (4am to 8am and 4pm to 8pm) that the Gayatri mantra should be recited.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 16.6:  March, 17, 1983]

Sri Sathya Sai Baba - Benefits of chanting Gayatri Mantra

Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ

Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt

Through meditation on the Gayatri, one can become aware of the inner motivating principle of the five elements, the five vital airs in the human body and the five sheaths which encase the Atma. Just as there are three basic energies that govern man---the physical, the metaphysical and the psychical, the ādhi-bhoutik, the ādhi-daivik and the ādhi-atmic, Gayatri has three facets, Gayatri, Savitri and Saraswati. Gayatri fosters the metaphysical, Savitri, the physical, and Saraswati, the psychical. These three karañas or instruments have to be cleansed and sublimated so that man can realise the goal of life. Through the recital of Gayatri mantra and meditation thereon, this great task can be achieved.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 15.11: June, 26, 1981]

It will protect you from harm wherever you are - traveling, working, or at home. Westerners have investigated the vibrations produced by this mantra and have found that when it is recited with the correct accent as laid down in the Vedas, the atmosphere around becomes visibly illumined. So Brahma-prakāsha, the Divine Effulgence, will descend on you and illumine your intellect and light your path when this mantra is chanted. Also repeat shanti thrice at the end, for that repetition will give shanti or peace to three entities in you --body, mind, and soul.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 13.34: June, 20, 1977]

It is essential to recite the Gayatri mantra at least three times during morning, noon, and evening. This will serve to reduce the effects of the wrong acts one does every day. It is like buying goods for cash, instead of getting them on credit. There is no accumulation of karmic (result of action) debt, since each day's karma (action) is atoned for that day itself by reciting the
Gayatri mantra.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 16.6:  March, 17, 1983]

"Sarva roga nivaarini Gayatri" (Gayatri is the reliever of all diseases). "Sarva dhukha parivaarini Gayatri" (Gayatri wards off all misery). "Sarva vaancha phalashri Gayatri" (Gayatri is the fulfiller of all desires). Gayatri is the bestower of all that is beneficial. If the mantra is chanted, various kinds of powers will emerge in one.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 28.22: August, 23, 1995]

Sri Sathya Sai Baba - Deeper meaning of the Gayatri Mantra

Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ

Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt

Gayatri, Savitri and Saraswati are latent in everybody. Bhur, Bhuvah and Swah in the Gayatri mantra refer to the body (materialization), the life-force (vibration) and the soul (radiation). Bhur means the earth, which is nothing but the combination of materials. This denotes the human body, which is also a combination of materials. Bhuvah refers to the life-force, which makes the body vibrate. Swah refers to Prajnāna-shakti, which sustains the life-force. This Prajnāna-shakti is known as constant integrated awareness. This is also termed as radiation. All three, namely, materialization, vibration and radiation are present in man. I tell you often, you are not one, but three—the one you think you are (physical body), the one others think you are (mental body) and the one you really are (Atma).

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 33.04: Feb, 10, 2000]

Gayatri is described as having five faces. The first is "Om". The second is "Bhur-bhuvah-svah". The third is. "Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ". The fourth is "Bhargo Devasya Dhīmahi". The fifth is "Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayāt". Gayatri represents in these five faces the five prāñas (life forces). Gayatri is the protector of the five prāñas in man. “Gāyantaṃ trāyate iti Gayatri” -- Because it protects the one who recites it, it is called Gayatri. When Gayatri acts as protector of the life-forces, she is known as Savitri. Savitri is known in the sciptural story as the devoted wife who brought back to life her husband, Sathyavan. Savitri is the presiding deity of the five prāñas. She protects those who lead a life of Truth. This is the inner meaning.

When one's intelligence and intuition are developed by the recitation of the mantra, the activating deity is Gayatri. When the life-forces are protected, the guardian deity is called Savitri. When one's speech is protected, the deity is called Saraswati. Because of the protective roles of Savithri, Saraswati and Gayatri, in relation to life, speech and the intellect, Gayatri is described as "Sarva-devatā-swarūpiñi"--- the embodiment of all goddesses.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’ , vol 16.06: March, 17, 1983]

The Gayatri has three parts: 1.Praise, 2.Meditation, and 3.Prayer. First, the Divine is praised, then it is meditated upon in reverence and lastly, an appeal is made to the Divine to dispel the darkness of ignorance and to awaken and strengthen the intellect. Dhīmahi  is related to the meditative aspect. Dhīyo Yonah Prachodayāt relates to the aspect of prayer. Chanting of the Gayatri Mantra purifies the mind and confers devotion, detachment and wisdom.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 33.04: Feb, 10, 2000]

Sri Sathya Sai Baba - Universality of Gayatri Mantra

Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ

Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt

For every kind of power, proofs may be sought by direct perception or by the process of inference. Men sought to find out by what direct proof they could experience this transcendental power. They found the proof in the Sun. Without the Sun there will be no light at all. Nor is that all. All activities will come to a standstill. In this world hydrogen is essential for the growth of plants and of living beings. The Sun's primary components are hydrogen and helium. Without hydrogen and helium, the world cannot survive. Hence, the ancients concluded that the Sun was the visible proof (of a transcendental power). They also found some subtle secrets about the Sun. Hence, they adored the Sun as the principal deity in the Gayatri mantra. “Dhiyo yonah Prachodayāt” - May the Sun illumine our intellects in the same way he sheds his effulgence. This is the prayer addressed to the Sun in the Gayatri mantra. In this way, they came to regard the Gayatri mantra as the mother of the Vedas.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 24.08: May, 21, 1991]

The earliest finding of the seekers was that the Sun was the most important factor in determining the daily life of man and providing the basic requirements for living. Life would be impossible without the Sun for man, beast, bird or plant. The Sun was regarded as the source of all energy and responsible for birth, growth and destruction of all things in creation. It was for this reason that Sage Viswamitra glorified the Sun God (Savitr) in the Gayatri mantra.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 19.4: March, 8, 1986]

Repeat the Gayatri - it is a universal prayer. It has three parts, meditation on the glory of God as the illumination immanent in the three worlds - upper, middle and lower (Om Bhur Bhuva Swah; Tat Savitur Vareñyam); it has smaraña or picturisation of the Grace (Bhargo Devasya Dhīmahi) and prārthanā, prayer for compassion for the sake of liberation, through awakening of intelligence that pervades entire universe, not to any particular name or form of that intelligence; and so, all can use it and be saved by it. There can be no fanaticism, no hatred, no rivalry, if the Gayatri is adhered to, its pious repetition will clarify the passions and promote love.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 07.37: October, 13, 1967]

Sri Sathya Sai Baba - Who is Mother Gayatri

Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ

Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt

Gayatri is the Mother of all scriptures (Vedas). She is present, wherever Her name is chanted. She is very powerful. The One who nourishes the individual being is Gayatri. She bestows pure thoughts on anyone who worships Her. She is the embodiment of all Goddesses. Our very breath is Gayatri, our faith in existence is Gayatri. Gayatri has five faces, they are the five life principles. She has nine descriptions, they are ‘Om, Bhur, Bhuvah, Swah, Tat, Savitur, Vareñyaṃ, Bhargo, Devasya’. Mother Gayatri nourishes and protects every being and she channelizes our senses in the proper direction. ‘Dhīmahi’ means meditation. We pray to her to inspire us with good intelligence. ‘Dhīyo Yonah Prachodayāt’ - We beseech her to bestow on us everything we need. Thus Gayatri is a complete prayer for protection, nourishment and finally, liberation.

[‘My Dear Students’, Vol 3, Ch 2, Mar 19, 1998]

Gayatri is the mother of the Vedas (Gayatri Chandhasam matha) Gayatri, however, has three names: Gayatri, Savitri, and Saraswathi. These three are present in everyone. Gayatri represents the senses; it is the master of the senses. Savitri is the master of Prana (Life Force). Many Indians are familiar with the story of Savitri, who brought back to life her dead husband, Sathyavan. Savitri signifies truth. Saraswathi is the presiding deity of speech (vaak). The three represent purity in thought, word, and deed (thrikarana shuddhi). Although Gayatri has three names, all three are in each of us as the senses (Gayatri), the power of speech (Saraswathi), and the life force (Savitri).

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 28.22: August, 23, 1995]

Sri Sathya Sai Baba - What is the Gayatri Mantra

Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ

Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt

The Gayatri is a universal prayer enshrined in the Vedas. It is addressed to the Immanent and Transcendent Divine which has been given the name 'Savita,' meaning 'that from which all this is born.' The Gayatri may be considered as having three parts - (i) Adoration (ii) Meditation (iii) Prayer. First the Divine is praised, then It is meditated upon in reverence and finally an appeal is made to the Divine to awaken and strengthen the intellect, the discriminating faculty of man.

The Gayatri is considered as the essence of the Vedas. Veda means knowledge, and this prayer fosters and sharpens the knowledge-yielding faculty. As a matter of fact the four core-declarations enshrined in the four Vedas are implied in this Gayatri mantra.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 13.34: June, 20, 1977]

The Gayatri Mantra is a sacred chant that demonstrates the unity that underlies manifoldness in creation. It is through the recognition of this unity that we can understand the multiplicity. Clay is one and the same thing, though pots of different shapes and sizes can be made from it. Gold is one, though gold ornaments can be multifarious. The Atma is one, though the embodied forms in which it resides may be many. Whatever the colour of the cow, the milk is always white.

[‘Sathya Sai Speaks’, vol 16.6:  March, 17, 1983]

Sri Sathya Sai Baba - Gayatri Mantra

Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ

Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt

General meaning:

We meditate on that most adored Supreme Lord, the creator, whose effulgence (divine light) illumines all realms (physical, mental and spiritual). May this divine light illumine our intellect.

Word meaning: 

Om: The primeval sound

Bhur: the physical body/physical realm

Bhuvah: the life force/the mental realm 

Suvah: the soul/spiritual realm

Tat: That (God)

Savitur: the Sun, Creator (source of all life)

Vareñyam: adore

Bhargo: effulgence (divine light)

Devasya: supreme Lord

Dhīmahi: meditate

Dhiyo: the intellect

Yo: May this light 

Nah: our

Prachodayāt: illumine/inspire

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple

The Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deities Shiva and Parvati, located at Srisailam in Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.

Located in a picturesque environment of Nallamalai Hills, ‘Srisailam’ the abode of Siva and Sakthi is on the right side of the river Krishna in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. It is at an altitude of 476 meters above the sea level, at Latitude of 16 12” North and Longitude of 78 5” East.

The presiding Deities of this Kshetram God Mallikarjuna Swamy is one of the twelve Jyothirlingas and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi is one of the eighteen Mahasakthis and both are believed to be self-manifested. The unique feature of this Kshetram is the co-existing of Jyothirlingam and Mahasakthi in one Temple complex, which is the rare and only of its kind.

At this place the river Krishna flows through a deep narrow valley, approximately 100 meters wide and nearly at a depth of 1000 meters from the hill top. The river flows at a distance of 70 Km to the up of Srisailam and continues to flow in the same valley for a further distance of 80 Km to the down till it reaches Nagarjunasagar. The narrow flow of the river at such deep valley is fine looking and more pleasant near Srisailam where it is called as Pathalaganaga. Actually the river takes two repeated bends at Pathalaganga with in a short distance and makes a large stretch of high Plateau in each bend. The right part of it we have Srisailam and whereas on the left there is ruined Chandraguptanagara which is mentioned in the Skandapurana and also some of the celebrated Literary works of 12th to 16th centuries.

In the traditional Hindu mythology, this Kshetram is identified as the Kailasa on the earth and named as ILA - KAILASAM. Besides its mythical antiquity, Srisailam is also having a hoary historical antiquity. Starting from the Satavahanas who were the earliest rulers of Andhradesa, the region around Srisailam appears as a prominent religious centre and it continues to be so into the present times. The inscriptional evidences available at Srisailam are of the 12th century A.D and afterwards, which is very intriguing. However, the inscriptions belonging to various early historical places found in various parts of the Deccan and Andhra Pradesh, testify to its historical antiquity starting from first century A.D. In this small book the temple complex of Srisailam is analysed from the view point of chronology, art and architecture, sculpture and iconography.

Shiva is worshiped as Mallikarjuna, and is represented by the lingam. His consort Parvati is depicted as Brahmaramba. It is the one of the only three temples in India in which both Jyotirlinga and Shaktipeeth is revered.

The legend is that Kumar Kartikeya, the eldest son of Lord Shiva once got angry and came to the Kronch Hills from Kailash. Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati came here and stayed on with the name Arjun and Mallika. Thus the place and the temple were called Mallikarjun.

When Shiva and Parvati decided to find suitable brides for their sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya argued  as to who is to get wedded first. Shiva bade that the one who goes around the world in Pradakshinam could get married first. By the time Kartikeya could go round the world on  his  vahana, Ganesha went round his parents 7 times (for according to Shastras, going in pradakshinam round one's parents is equivalent to going once around the world (Bhupradakshinam)). Siva got Buddhi (intellect), Siddhi (spiritual power), and Riddhi (prosperity) married to Ganesha. Kartikeya on his return was enraged and went away to stay alone on Mount Kraunja in the name of Kumarabrahmachari. On seeing his father coming over to pacify him, he tried to move to another place, but on the request of the Devas, stayed close by. The place where Siva and Parvati stayed came to be known as Shrishailam.

As per Hindu legend, the presiding deity in the form of Linga (an iconic form of Shiva) was worshipped with jasmine (locally called Mallika), leading to the name of presiding deity as Mallikarjuna.

Mahashivratri is the main festival celebrated at Srisailam Mallikarjuna Swamy temple.

There are inscriptional evidence from the Satavahana dynasty which place the temple to be existent from the 2nd century. Most modern additions were done during the time of king Harihara I of Vijayanagara Empire.

The temple complex covers 2 hectares and houses four gateway towers known as gopurams. The temple has numerous shrines, with those of Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba being the most prominent. The temple complex houses many halls; the most notable is the Mukha Mandapa built during the Vijayanagar period. The temple is situated facing East. The center mandapam has several pillars, with a huge idol of Nadikeshwara. The temple is enclosed by tall walls measuring 183 m (600 ft) by 152 m (499 ft) and 8.5 m (28 ft) tall. There are a number of sculptures in the precinct each rising above another. The Mukamandapa, the hall leading to the sanctum, has intricately sculpted pillars. The shrine where Mallikarjuna is housed is considered the oldest in the temple, dating back to the 7th century. There is a Sahasra linga (1000 linga), believed to have been commissioned by Rama and five other lingams believed to have been commissioned by Pandavas. A mirror hall in the first precinct has images of Nataraja.

The temple is maintained and administered by government of Andhra Pradesh.

The nearest railway station are Markapur, Nandyal and Kurnool. From both the places the distance is 158 km. The most conveinent way is to take a bus or taxi from Hyderabad. Temple committee cottages and dharamshalas are available here.

Lord Shiva in this temple is referred to as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Goddess Bramarambha's shrine is referred to as one of the fifty two Shakti peethas. This temple is classified as one of the Paadal Petra Sthalam.

On the way to the main temple is located Shikreshwar temple.It is said that by having darshan in the temple one does not get rebirth.

Krishna River here is called Patal Ganga. One has to go down 852 stairs to reach the river. The Shiva Linga is bathed with the water of this river.

Jyotirlinga

As per Siva Mahapuranam, once Brahma (the Hindu God of creation) and Vishnu (the Hindu God of preservation) had an argument in terms of supremacy of creation. To test them, Shiva pierced the three worlds as a huge endless pillar of light, the jyotirlinga. Vishnu and Brahma split their ways to downwards and upwards respectively to find the end of the light in either directions. Brahma lied that he found out the end, while Vishnu conceded his defeat. Shiva appeared as a second pillar of light and cursed Brahma that he would have no place in ceremonies while Vishnu would be worshipped till the end of eternity. The jyotirlinga is the supreme partless reality, out of which Shiva partly appears. The jyotirlinga shrines, thus are places where Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light. Originally there were believed to be 64 jyotirlingas while 12 of them are considered to be very auspicious and holy. Each of the twelve jyotirlinga sites take the name of the presiding deity - each considered different manifestation of Shiva. At all these sites, the primary image is lingam representing the beginningless and endless Stambha pillar, symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva.

Shakti Peeth

Srisailam Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peetha. The legend of Daksha Yaga and Sati's self-immolation resulted in the emergence of Sri Parvati in the place of Sati Devi and making Shiva a householder. This mythology is the story behind the origin of Shakti Peethas. They are holy abodes of Adiparashakti formed due to the falling of Sati Devi's corpse when Shiva carried it and wandered. It is believed that Sati Devi's Upper lip has fallen here.

Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple

 

The Somnath temple located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra on the western coast of Gujarat, is believed to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage and tourist spot of Gujarat. Reconstructed several times in the past after repeated destruction by several Muslim invaders and rulers as well as the Portuguese, the present temple was reconstructed in Chaulukya style of Hindu temple architecture and completed in May 1951. The reconstruction was started under the orders of first Home Minister of India Vallabhbhai Patel and completed after his death.

The temple is considered sacred due to the various legends connected to it. Somnath means "Lord of the Soma", an epithet of Shiva.

According to tradition, the Shivalinga in Somnath is one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India, where Shiva is believed to have appeared as a fiery column of light. The jyotirlingas are taken as the supreme, undivided reality out of which Shiva partly appears.

Each of the 12 Jyotirlinga sites take the name of a different manifestation of Shiva. At all these sites, the primary image is a lingam representing the beginning-less and endless stambha (pillar), symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva.

The site of Somnath has been a pilgrimage site from ancient times on account of being a Triveni sangam (the confluence of three rivers: Kapila, Hiran and Sarasvati). 

Soma the Moon God, is believed to have lost his lustre due to a curse, and he bathed in the Sarasvati River at this site to regain it. The result is the waxing and waning of the moon, no doubt an allusion to the waxing and waning of the tides at this seashore location. The name of the town Prabhas, meaning lustre, as well as the alternative names Someshvar and Somnath ("The lord of the moon" or "the moon god") arise from this tradition.

Ancient Indian traditions maintain a close relationship of Somnath with release of Chandra (Moon God) from the curse of his father-in-law Daksha Prajapati. Moon was married to Twenty-Seven daughters of Daksha. However, he favoured Rohini and neglected other queens. The aggrieved Daksha cursed Moon and the Moon lost power of light. With the advice of Prajapita Brahma, Moon arrived at the Prabhas Teerth and worshipped Bhagvan Shiva. Pleased with the great penance and devotion of Moon, Bhagvan Shiva blessed him and relieved him from the curse of darkness. Pauranic traditions maintain that Moon had built a golden temple, followed by a silver temple by Ravana, Bhagvan Shree Krishna is believed to have built Somnath temple with Sandalwood.

The research based on ancient Indian classical texts show that first Somnath Jyotirling Pran-Pratistha was done on the auspicious third day of brighter half of Shravan month during the tenth Treta yug of Vaivswat Manvantar. Swami Shri Gajananand Saraswatiji, Chairman of Shrimad Aadhya Jagadguru Shankaracharya Vedic Shodh Sansthan, Varanasi suggested that the said first temple was built 7,99,25,105 years ago as derived from the traditions of Prabhas Khand of Skand Puran. Thus, this temple is a perennial source of inspiration for millions of Hindus since time immemorial.

The Moon God is said to have been relieved from the curse of his father-in-law Daksha Prajapati by the blessings of Bhagvan Somnath. In the Shiva Purana and Nandi Upapurana, Shiva said, `I am always present everywhere but specially in 12 forms and places as the Jyotirlingas`. Somnath is one of these 12 holy places. This is the first among the twelve holy Shiva Jyotirlings.

Other spots in the temple are Shri Kapardi Vinayak and Shri Hanuman Temple in addition to Vallabhghat. Vallabhghat is a beautiful sunset point. The temple is illuminated every evening. Similarly, the Sound & Light Show “Jay Somnath” is also displayed every night during 8.00 to 9.00, which allows the pilgrims an ethereal experience in the backdrop of grand Somnath temple and the holy wave sounds of the Ocean.

According to popular tradition, the first Shiva temple at Somnath is believed to have been built at some unknown time in the past. The second temple is said to have been built at the same site by the "Yadava kings" of Vallabhi around 649 CE. In 725 CE, Al-Junayd, the Arab Governor of Sindh is said to have destroyed the second temple as part of his invasions of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The Gujara-Pratihara king Nagabhata II is said to have constructed the third temple in 815 CE, a large structure of red sandstone.

However, there is historical record of an attack on Somnath by Al-Junayd. Nagabhata II is known to have visited tirthas in Saurashtra, including Someshvara (the Lord of the Moon), which may or may not be a reference to a Siva temple because the town itself was known by that name. The Chaulukya (Solanki) king Mularaja possibly built the first temple at the site sometime before 997 CE, even though some historians believe that he may have renovated a smaller earlier temple.

In 1024, during the reign of Bhima I, the prominent Turkic ruler Mahmud of Ghazni raided Gujarat, plundering the Somnath temple and breaking its Jyotirlinga despite pleas by Brahmins not to break it. Historians expect the damage to the temple by Mahmud to have been minimal because there are no records of pilgrimages to the temple till 1038, for 12 years no pilgrim due to damages. However, powerful legends with intricate detail developed in the Turko-Persian literature regarding Mahmud's raid, which "electrified" the Muslim world according to scholar Meenakshi Jain. They later boasted that Mahmud had killed 50,000 devotees. The devotees had tried to defend the temple from being vandalised and looted.

The temple at the time of Mahmud's attack appears to have been a wooden structure, which is said to have decayed in time (kalajirnam). Kumarapala (r. 1143–72) rebuilt it in "excellent stone and studded it with jewels," according to an inscription in 1169.

The temple was again destroyed by the Delhi Sultanate's army in 1299 CE. During its 1299 invasion of Gujarat, Alauddin Khalji’s army, led by Ulugh Khan, defeated the Vaghela king Karna, and sacked the Somnath temple. Legends in the later texts Kanhadade Prabandha (15th century) and Khyat (17th century) state that the Jalore ruler Kanhadadeva later recovered the Somnath idol and freed the Hindu prisoners, after an attack on the Delhi army near Jalore.

The temple was rebuilt by Mahipala I, the Chudasama king of Saurashtra in 1308 and the lingam was installed by his son Khengara sometime between 1331 and 1351.

In 1395, the temple was destroyed for the third time by Zafar Khan, the last governor of Gujarat under the Delhi Sultanate and later founder of Gujarat Sultanate. In 1451, it was desecrated by Mahnud Begada, the Sultan of Gujarat.

In 1546, the Portuguese, based in Goa, attacked ports and towns in Gujarat including Somnath and destroyed several temples and mosques.

By 1665, the temple, one of many, was ordered to be destroyed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. In 1702, he ordered that if Hindus revived worship there, it should be demolished completely.

Before independence, Veraval was part of the Junagadh State, whose ruler had acceded to Pakistan in 1947. After India refused to accept his decision, the state was made a part of India and Deputy Prime Minister Patel came to Junagadh on 12 November 1947 to direct the stabilization of the state by the Indian Army and at the same time ordered the reconstruction of the Somnath temple.

The ruins were pulled down in October 1950 and in May 1951, Rajindra Prasad, the first President of the Republic of India, performed the installation ceremony for the temple. 

The present temple is built in the Chaulukya style of temple architecture or "Kailash Mahameru Prasad" style and reflects the skill of the Sompura Salats, one of Gujarat's master masons. The temple's sikhara, or main spire, is 15 metres in height, and it has an 8.2-metre tall flag pole at the top.

The temple is situated at such a place that there is no land in a straight line between Somnath seashore until Antarctica, such an inscription in Sanskrit is found on the Baṇastambha (Sanskrit: बाणस्तम्भ, lit. arrow pillar) erected on the sea-protection wall. The Baṇastambha mentions that it stands at a point on the Indian landmass that is the first point on land in the north to the South Pole at that particular longitude.

Temple Website: Somnath Temple

Teela Aetham

Teela Aetham festival is celebrated by Kashmiri Pandits. This is a festival held on the 8th day of the bright fortnight of Phalguna month (February - March) of the lunar calendar.

In effect it is the culmination of the Shivaratri festivities as also bidding adieu to the shivering winter. To begin with, pooja is offered at home and a number of oil lamps are lit. These lamps are taken to the river bank and floated on grass bases in the river after the prescribed pooja. Afterwards, old Kangris (fire pots) are filled with grass. A long rope is tied to its handle and fire is lit in it. Then the kangri is moved round and round in circles rhythmically till the whole kangri burns down. Then it is hurled faraway into the waters of the flowing river. While doing so the children cryout, ‘Jateen teen, Jateen teen’; meaning that it is a flame, it is burning.

Sonth

Sonth for Kashmiri Pandits heralds the Spring season, similar to Navreh which is the New Lunar Year. It is customary in Kashmiri Pandit community to celebrate with ‘Thal Barun’ (loosely translated as filling of plate). A plate is filled overnight with rice, yoghurt, milk, nuts, cake, flower, bread, pen, gold coin, vhy (a herb root), picture of a deity or the goddess, except for to place the new Panchang which is done only on the occasion of Navreh.

This is kept covered for the night and early in the morning every member of the family views the contents of the plate, first thing after getting up from the bed and seeks blessings for the year to follow.

It is considered as an omen of prosperity, happiness and knowledge. In earlier times people would go to the river bank, take a dip and throw these nuts in the water then offer Puja at homes or in temples.

A Vedic explanation of Sonth (Thal Barun) is explained as follows;

Ancient Vedic Rishis have bifurcated our Solar system into 12 slots known as 12 signs (Rashi’s).

Each slot comprises of 30 degrees out of total of 360 Degrees.

Sun takes a month i.e. 30 days to cover these 30 degrees and when ever Sun enters new 30 degree slot (sign or Rashi) that event or Day is known as Sankrati.

There are total 12 Sankrati in a solar year except during Malmass year wherein the name of 13th Sun is known as Malinmunch (mal mass).

While as the Moon takes only 2.25 days to cover a 30 degree slot. Moon covers the entire ecliptic path in just approximately 29 day while as sun takes a year.

Whenever creation of this Universe started, it must have started from 0 degree.

We celebrated our new year when both Sun and Moon reach to their starting point and that happens on Navreh day.

The Solar year reaches to its last slot of 30 degrees, when sun enters Meen Rashi - Pisces. The Sun as usual stays in this last slot for 30 days.

The day when Sun enters last slot to reach Zero degrees to start its new year is known as Sonth.

Sun remains in this last slot from Sonth day upto Vaishakhi day.

Meanwhile Moon too completes the 2.25 days in Pisces – Mean Rashi to reach 0 Degree, the day of Navreh.

The dark fortnight of Moon during this last slot is known as Kreel Paksh. This fortnight was used to give a just of calander for queries if any from public. Those queries were incorporated in new Jantri to be used on Navreh.

We start the Solar year from Sonth and Lunar from Navreh.