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Gayatri Mantra
What a Mantra is

A mantra is a religious syllable or poem, typically from the Sanskrit language. Their use varies according to the school and philosophy associated with the mantra. They are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or vibrations that instill one-pointed concentration in the devotee. Other purposes have included religious ceremonies to accumulate wealth, avoid danger, or eliminate enemies. Mantras originated in India with Vedic Hinduism and were later adopted by Buddhists and Jains, now popular in various modern forms of spiritual practice which are loosely based on practices of these Eastern religions.

The word mantra is a Sanskrit word consisting of the root man- "manas or mind" and the suffix -tra meaning, tool, hence a literal translation would be "mind tool". Mantras are interpreted to be effective as sound (vibration), to the effect that great emphasis is put on correct pronunciation (resulting in an early development of a science of phonetics in India). They are intended to deliver the mind from illusion and material inclinations. Chanting is the process of repeating a mantra.

Introduction

Mantras have some features in common with spells in general, in that they are a translation of the human will or desire into a form of action. Indeed, Dr. Edward Conze, a scholar of Buddhism, frequently translated "mantra" as "spell". As symbols, sounds are seen to effect what they symbolise. Vocal sounds are frequently thought of as having magical powers, or even of representing the words or speech of a deity. For the authors of the Hindu scriptures of the Upanishads, the syllable Aum, itself constituting a mantra, represents Brahman, the godhead, as well as the whole of creation. Merely pronouncing this syllable is to experience the divine in a very direct way. Kukai suggests that all sounds are the voice of the Dharmakaya Buddha -- i.e. as in Hindu Upanishadic and Yogic thought, these sounds are manifestations of ultimate reality. We should not think that this is peculiar to Eastern culture, however. Words do have a mysterious power to affect us. Accepted scholarly etymology links the word with "manas" meaning "mind" and 'trâna' for protection so that a mantra is something which protects the mind -- however in practice we will see that mantra is considered to do far more than simply protect the mind.

For many cultures it is the written letters that have power -- the Hebrew Kabbalah for instance, or the Anglo-Saxon Runes. Letters can have an oracular function even. But in India special conditions applied that meant that writing was very definitely inferior to the spoken word. The Brahmins were the priestly caste of the Aryan peoples. It was they that preserved the holy writings -- initially the Vedas, but later also the Upanishads. For years, they were the only ones who knew the mantras or sacred formulas that had to be chanted at every important occasion. However, with the advent of egalitarian Hindu schools of Yoga, Vedanta, Tantra and Bhakti, it is now the case that intra-family and community mantras are passed on freely as part of generally practiced Hindu religion. Such was the influence of the more orthodox attitude of the elite nature of mantra knowledge that even the Buddhists, who repudiated the whole idea of caste, and of the efficacy of the old rituals, called themselves the shravakas, that is, "the hearers". A wise person in India was one who had "heard much". Mantras then are sound symbols. What they symbolise and how they function depends on the context, and the mind of the person repeating them. Studies in sound symbolism suggest that vocal sounds have meaning whether we are aware of it or not. And indeed that there can be multiple layers of symbolism associated with each sound. So even if we do not understand them, mantras are no simply meaningless mumbo jumbo -- no vocal utterance is entirely without meaning. We can look at mantra as a range of different contexts to see what they can mean in those contexts: Om may mean something quite different to a Hindu and a Tibetan Buddhist. The analysis of Kukai, a 9th century Japanese Buddhist is revealing. See below.

While Hindu tantras eventually came to see the letters as well as the sounds as representatives of the divine, it was when Buddhism travelled to China that a major shift in emphasis towards writing came about. China lacked a unifying, ecclesiastic language like Sanskrit, and achieved its cultural unity by having a written language that was flexible in pronunciation but more precise in terms of the concepts that each character represented. In fact the Indians had several scripts which were all equally serviceable for writing Sanskrit. Hence the Chinese prized written language much more highly than did the Indian Buddhist missionaries, and the writing of mantras became a spiritual practice in its own right. So that whereas Brahmins had been very strict on correct pronunciation, the Chinese, and indeed other Far-Eastern Buddhists were less concerned with this than correctly writing something down. The practice of writing mantras, and copying texts as a spiritual practice, became very refined in Japan, and the writing in the Siddham script in which the Sanskrit of many Buddhist Sutras were written is only really seen in Japan nowadays. However, written mantra-repetition in Hindu practices, with Sanskrit in any number of scripts, is well-known to many sects in India as well.

Mantras were originally conceived in the great Hindu scriptures known as the Vedas. Within practically all Hindu scriptures, the writing is formed in painstakingly crafted two line "shlokas" and most mantras follow this pattern, although mantras are often found in single line or even single word combinations.

Mantra in Hinduism

AumThe most basic mantra is Aum, which in Hinduism is known as the "pranava mantra," the source of all mantras. The philosophy behind this is the Hindu idea of nama-rupa (name-form), which supposes that all things, ideas or entities in existence, within the phenomenological cosmos, have name and form of some sort. The most basic name and form is the primordial vibration of Aum, as it is the first manifested nama-rupa of Brahman, the unmanifest reality/unreality. Essentially, before existence and beyond existence is only One reality, Brahman, and the first manifestation of Brahman in existence is Aum. For this reason, Aum is considered to be the most fundamental and powerful mantra, and thus is prefixed and suffixed to all Hindu prayers. While some mantras may invoke individual Gods or principles, the most fundamental mantras, like 'Aum,' the 'Shanti Mantra,' the 'Gayatri Mantra' and others all ultimately focus on the One reality.

In the Hindu tantras the universe is sound. The supreme (para) brings forth existence through the Word (Shabda). Creation consists of vibrations at various frequencies and amplitudes giving rise to the phenomena of the world. The purest vibrations are the var.na, the imperishable letters which are revealed to us, imperfectly as the audible sounds and visible forms.

Var.nas are the atoms of sound. A complex symbolic association was built up between letters and the elements, gods, signs of the zodiac, parts of the body -- letters became rich in these associations. For example in the Aitrareya-aranya-Upanishad we find:

"The mute consonants represent the earth, the sibilants the sky, the vowels heaven. The mute consonants represent fire, the sibilants air, the vowels the sun? The mute consonants represent the eye, the sibilants the ear, the vowels the mind" 
 

In effect each letter became a mantra and the language of the Vedas, Sanskrit, corresponds profoundly to the nature of things. Thus the Vedas come to represent reality itself. The seed syllable Om represents the underlying unity of reality, which is Brahman.

Mantra Japa

Mantra Japa was a concept of the Vedic sages that incorporates mantras as one of the main forms of puja, or worship, whose ultimate end is seen as moksha/liberation. Essentially, Mantra Japa means repetition of mantra, and has become an established practice of all Hindu streams, from the various Yoga to Tantra. It involves repetition of a mantra over and over again, usually in cycles of auspicious numbers (in multiples of three), the most popular being 108. For this reason, Hindu malas (bead necklaces) developed, containing 108 beads and a head "meru" bead. The devotee performing japa using his/her fingers counts each bead as he/she repeats the chosen mantra. Having reached 108 repetitions, if he/she wishes to continue another cycle of mantras, the devotee must turn the mala around without crossing the "meru" bead and repeat.

It is said that through japa the devotee attains one-pointedness, or extreme focus, on the chosen deity or principle idea of the mantra. The vibrations and sounds of the mantra are considered extremely important, and thus reverberations of the sound are supposed to awaken the prana or spiritual life force and even stimulate chakras according to many Hindu schools of thought.

Any shloka from holy Hindu texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutra, even the Mahabharata , Ramayana, Durga saptashati or Chandi are considered powerful enough to be repeated to great effect, and have therefore the status of a mantra.

A very common mantra is formed by taking a deity's name. Called Nama japa and saluting it in such a manner: "Aum namah ------" or "Aum Jai (Hail!) ------" or several such permutations. Common examples are "Aum namah Shivaya" (Aum I bow to Lord Shiva), "Aum Namo Narayanaya"; or "Aum Namo Bhagavate Vasudevãya," (Salutations to the Universal God Vishnu), "Aum Shri Ganeshaya Namah" (Aum to Shri Ganesha) and "Aum Kalikayai Namah" and "Aum Hrim Chandikãyai Namah." (i.e., mantras to Devi.)

The Hindu Bija Mantra

In Hinduism the concept of mantra as mystical sounds was carried to its logical conclusion in "seed" (Sanskrit bija) mantras that have no precise meaning on their surface but instead are thought to carry within their sounds connections to various spiritual principles and currents. For example, worship of the Mother Goddess Kali, in mantra form, is famously reduced to the powerful Bija mantras of the Shakta tradition of Hinduism: Aum Krim Krim Krim Hoom Hum: Krim Krim Krim Hum Hum Hrim Hrim Swaha Of course, the most revered of all Bija mantras is Om/Aum. The Bija mantra is part of the Hindu monistic understanding that while reality manifests itself as many/multiple, it is ultimately one.

 

Mantras

Mantra is a religious or mystical syllable or poem, typically from the Sanskrit language. Mantras are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or vibrations that inculcate concentration in the devotee. Mantras are also integrated in religious rituals to remove obstacles, avoid danger, reduce foes, or accumulate wealth. Mantras got their origin from the Vedas of India.

Mantra - The Word
The word "Mantra" has been derived from Sanskrit. Mantra contains two words - "man" which means "to think" (also in manas "mind") and suffix "tra" which means "tool", hence a literal translation would be "instrument of thought". A mantra is a powerful word or phrase that may or may not have meaning in the same way as a sentence.

What is Mantra?
Mantras are single or strung together syllables. It is important to pronounce the mantra properly with an understanding of its meaning. Improper pronunciation of Mantra can inflict losses. So, one should be careful while chanting mantra.

Mantras are energy-based sounds. The Indian metaphysical tradition explains that the body is composed of the combination of five elements and the first of them is sound. Studies in sound symbolism suggest that vocal sounds have meaning whether we are aware of it or not. And certainly there can be multiple layers of symbolism associated with each sound. So even, if we do not understand them, mantras are not meaningless; no vocal utterance is entirely without meaning.

One's subconscious mind can find its solution through meditation and recitation of mantras. A mantra, when repeated constantly during meditation, first loudly and then through silent and mental chanting, changes the consciousness.

The Basic Mantra - Aum
In Hindu Mythology, the most basic mantra is Aum, which is known as the "pranava mantra", the source of all mantras. Aum is regarded to be the most fundamental and powerful mantra. Aum represents the first manifestation of Brahman, the Supreme reality. Thus, Aum is prefixed and suffixed to all Hindu prayers.

Verses (Sloka) from holy Hindu texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad-Gita, Mahabharata , Ramayana, Durga Saptashati or Chandi are considered powerful enough to be repeated to great effect, and therefore have attained the status of a mantra. As per the Vedic practices, most ancient techniques and classical Hinduism, mantra is symbolized as a requisite for spiritual advancement and high attainment.

Mantra Power

Mantras are powerful sounds and when chanted with devotion produce enormous effects. Mantras are well-off in their meanings and their meaning can be meditated while chanting. As the mind concentrates more and more on mantra and its meaning, it conditions the mind and takes up to the higher states and forms the path to salvation - the eternal bliss. Read on to know about the significance of mantra…

The Vedas are full of mantras, therefore have been kept for ages in their raw form to use in the different practices like patha, karma, jata, gana, patas. It has been done to ensure that the chanter clearly interprets the correct letters and sound for each letter (svara). People are advised to chant the mantras only when they know the correct pronunciation of it. That is how mantras are kept against deterioration with time.

Mantras Are Energy-Based Sounds
Sound is the foremost content of the creation. Mantras are divine sounds. Saying any word produces an actual physical vibration. Over time, if we know what the effect of that vibration is, then the word may come to have meaning associated with the effect of saying that vibration or word. Mantras appear really powerful when this sound effect reaches the mind and the surroundings.

Mantras Create Thought-Energy Waves
Mantra, when chanted sincerely produces a state where the organism vibrates at the rate completely in tune with the energy and spiritual state, represented by and contained within the mantra.

Mantra Have Fire-Like Energy
Mantras have fire like energy which can bring a positive and beneficial result, or it can produce an energy meltdown when misused or practiced without some guidance. There are certain mantra formulas which are so exact, so specific and so powerful that they must be learned and practiced under careful supervision by a qualified guru.

Mantras Eventually Quiet the Mind
At a deep level, subconscious mind is a collective consciousness of all the forms of primitive consciousnesses which exist throughout the physical and subtle bodies. Sincere use of mantra can excavate into subconscious crystallized thoughts stored in the organs and glands and transform these bodily parts into repositories of peace.

A mantra is a powerful word or phrase that may or may not have meaning in the same way as a sentence. Mantras can only be experienced, there is no proper term to define them and phrase them. That is why; they get passed from generation to generation.

Mantra Chanting

Chanting of mantra was a concept of the Vedic saints that includes mantras as one of the main forms of worship, whose end is seen as salvation. Basically, Mantra Jaap means repeating the mantra. Reciting Mantra has become an established feature of the Hindu practices. Mantra Japa involves repetition of mantra again and again, usually 108 times completes one cycle. Due to this, the rosary (mala) used for mantra jaap has 108 beads in it.

It is believed that through mantra jaap, the devotee attains concentration and focus on the chosen deity or the main idea of the mantra. One can attain peace of mind quickly by chanting mantra. With prolong and constant practice, the inherent power of the Mantra (Mantra-Shakti) will be awakened, which will fill your very existence with the Divinity of the Mantra.

Practical Aids to Japa

  • Select any Mantra and repeat it from 108 to 1,080 times daily (one to ten malas).

  • Take a bath or wash your hands, feet, face and mouth before sitting for Japa in the morning.

  • Sit facing east or north during the practice. This enhances the effectiveness of the Jaap.

  • Sit on a rug to conserve body-electricity. Sit in a separate meditation room or in any suitable place, such as a temple, on a river bank or under a banyan or peepul tree.

  • Maintain a steady pose. You can sit in Padmasana, Siddhasana or Sukhasana. Resolve to complete a certain minimum number of malas before leaving your seat.

  • Use a rosary of 108 beads. Do not allow the rosary to hang below the navel. The rosary (mala) must not be visible to you or to others, so cover it properly. Use the middle finger and the thumb of the right to roll the beads. The use of the index finger is not allowed. Do not cross the meru (main bead) while rolling the beads.

  • Do mental Jaap for sometime without a rosary or mala. When the mind wanders, do the Japa aloud, or whisper the Mantra for some time and come back to mental Japa again as soon as possible.

  • Do not chant mantra in haste. Do it slowly with feeling, concentration of mind and devotion.

  • Try to associate the chant with the rhythm of the breath and meditate in the form of your Deity. Keep a picture or idol of the Deity in front of you. Think of the meaning of the Mantra while repeating it.

  • Observe silence and avoid distractions, calls and engagements. It is important not to leave the place at once after the Japa is over and mix with everyone or get into worldly activity. This keeps the spiritual vibrations intact.

One can leave the place after a dedicated prostration, with a feeling that everything belongs to that almighty. The Puja, Sadhana, Meditation and Jaap etc, any kind of prayers offered to the Almighty must be done with a sincere heart. The Supreme Being answers all the questions and doubts of the devotee, sooner or later. One must understand that the ultimate purpose of life is the realization of divine.

Brahma Mantra

Lord Brahma is the originator and the generator of the mankind. Brahma represents the universal mind, as creation is the work of the mind and the intellect. Lord Brahma is considered as the "Brahm", the Supreme God. Students, teachers and scholars worship the creator to seek the blessings of God in acquiring knowledge. People meditate upon Lord Brahma to attain peace of mind. Brahma Mantra forms the part of meditation on the lord. Mantra of Hindu God Brahma is as follows:


 

"Om Namo Rajo Jushei Sristau
Sthithou Sattwa Mayayacha
Tamo Mayaya Sam-Harinei
Vishwarupaya Vedhasei
Om Brahmanyei Namaha"


 

Meaning: Brahma is the creator of the universe. He created the universe with his three nature qualities, positive, negative and dormant. Brahma represents Om, the eternal bliss. Brahma is the supreme god, who brought all things to form. I bow to that divine god Brahma.

Dhanwantari Mantra

Lord Dhanwantari is regarded as the god of ayurvedic medicine (Ayurveda) in the Hindu religion. People pray to Dhanvantari, asking him for improved or good health for themselves and for others. Dhanvantri Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Mantra of Dhanwantari with its meaning is as follows:



 

"Om Namo Bhagavate
Maha Sudharshana
Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye;
Amrutha Kalasa Hasthaaya
Sarva Bhaya Vinasaya
Sarva Roka Nivaranaya
Thri Lokya Pathaye
Thri Lokya Nithaye
Sri Maha Vishnu Swarupa
Sri Dhanvantri Swarupa
Sri Sri Sri
Aoushata Chakra Narayana Swaha"


 

Meaning: We pray to the God, who is known as Sudarshana Vasudev Dhanvantari. He holds the Kalasha full of nectar of immortality. Lord Dhanvantri removes all fears and removes all diseases. He is the well wisher and the preserver of the three worlds. Dhanvantari is like Lord Vishnu, empowered to heal the Jiva souls. We bow to the Lord of Ayurveda.

Durga Mantra

Durga (Shakti / Devi) is one of the most popular goddesses among the Hindu people. Devi represents strength, morality, power and protection. Goddess Durga is the divine mother, who protects people from evil forces of selfishness, jealousy, hatred, anger and ego. Durga Devi Mantras form the part of prayers offered to the goddess. Mantras for Maa Durga are as follows:


 

Na Mantram No Yantram Tadapi Cha Na Jane Stutimaho Na Chavhanam Dhyanam Tadapi Cha Na Jane Stutikathah I
Na Jane Mudraste Tadapi Cha Na Jane Vilapanam Param Jane Matastvadanusaranam Kleshaharanam II


 

Meaning: O Maa Durga! I don't know any prayer or any magical summons to invoke you. Neither I know any mantra and have no idea how to meditate on you. I don't know your story or glory as well. I neither know your various postures nor am I given to crying in distress. The only thing I know is that seeking shelter under your protection and following your command will definitely end all sufferings.


 

Vidheragyanen Dravinavirhenalasataya Vidheyashakyatvattva Charanyorya Chyutirbhut I
Tadetat Kshantavyam Janani Sakaloddharini Shive Kuputro Jayet Kwachidapi Kumata Na Bhavti II


 

Meaning: O Durga, assure salvation to all troubled, I don't know how to worship you. I don't have resources or temperament since I am nasty by nature. I don't have special knowledge to conduct your worship as well. In rendering service to you if, I have made any mistakes or errors, forgive me Mother because there could be a bad son but never a bad mother.


 

Prithivyam Putraste Janani Vahavaha Santi Saralah Param Tesham Madhye Viralataraloaham Tava Sutah I
Madi Yoayam Tyagah Samuchitamidam No Taya Shive Kuputro Kwachidapi Kumata Na Bhavati II


 

Meaning: O Maa Durga, this earth has many of your naïve sons, but I am the most fickle among them. There would be hardly any one like me. Yet, O Shive! Rejecting me like this is not proper in this world, as there could be a bad son but never a bad mother.


 

Jaganmatarmatastava Charanseva Na Rachita Na Va Duttam Devi Dravinamapi Bhooyastava Maya I
Tathapi Tvam Sneham Mayi Nirupam Yatprakurushe Kuputro Jayet Kwachidapi Kumata Na Bhavati II


 

Meaning: O Mother of the World! I have never rendered any service to you. I never offered money to you. Yet, you bless me always for the reason that in this world there could be a bad son but never a bad mother.


 

Parittyakta Deva Vividhavidhisewa Kulataya Maya Panchasheeteradhikamapneete Tu Vayasi I
Idani Chenmatastava Yadi Kripa Napi Bhavata Niralambo Lambodar Janani Kam Yami Sharanam II


 

Meaning: O Parvati, mother of Lord Ganesha, I had been busy restlessly. But now, I have stopped worshipping other gods as I cannot worship them ritually. Therefore, I don't even expect any help from them. In such a condition I am absolutely helpless. From whom I seek shelter? I have no hope from any other god except you.


 

Shwapako Jalpako Bhavti Madhupako Magira Niratanko Ranko Viharati Chiram Kotikanakaih I
Tavaparne Karne Vishati Manvarne Phalamidam Janah Ko Janeete Janani Japaneeyam Japvidhhau II


 

Meaning: O Maa Aparna! One word of your holy prayer that falls in the ear of a foolish rascal is sufficient to make him utter sweet speech like an experienced scholar. With your blessing, a pauper then becomes rich owning millions of gold coins and enjoying life with all its joys till ripe old age. When listening to one word can work such wonders, who can presume the reward obtained by those, who continuously chant your name with full custom of worship.


 

Chitabhasmalepo Garalamashanam Dikpatdharo Jatadhari Kanthe Bhujagapati Hari Paushupatih I
Kapali Bhootesho Bhajati Jagdeeshai Ka Padavin Bhavani Tvatpanigrahan Paripati Phal Midam II


 

Meaning: O Durga Bhavani! The one, who keeps his body smeared with the ashes of the dead-bodies; who takes poison for food, who remains naked; who has matted hair on head and the serpent king Vasuki surrounding his neck; who has a cupal like container in his hands. If such a Bhootnath, Lord Shiva (Pashupati-Lord of Animals) is crowned with a title of Jagdeesh, then what is the reason behind it? How did he gain such importance? The clear evidence is your marriage with him.


 

Na Mokshasyakancha Bhavavibhavavancha Cha Na Mey Na Vigyanapeksha Shashimukh Sukheccha Na Punah I
Atastvan Sanyache Janani Jananam Yatu Mum Vai Mridani Rudrani Shiv-Shiv Bhavaneeti Japatah II


 

Meaning: O Maa Durga, with face of moon's elegance, I don't crave for Salvation or for material possessions. I don't even hope to get any expertise in sciences. I don't long for pleasure as well. My only request to you is to permit me to pass my entire life chanting "Mridani Rudrani Shiva-Shiva Bhavani".


 

Naradhitasi Vidhina Vividhopachareh Kim Rukshachintak Pareirna Kritam Vachobhib I
Shayme Tvameva Yadi Kinchan Maiyyanathe Dhatse Kripamuchitalam Param Tavaiva II


 

Meaning: O Maa Shyama! I never worshipped you with complete rituals or lots of offerings. I was always occupied in harsh words, which crime did my speech not commit? Yet, if you care for this shelter less orphan on your own, this is eligible only for you. Only a kind hearted mother like you can give refuge to such a bad son, as I am.


 

Aapatsu Magnah Smaranam Tvadeeyam Karomi Durge Karunarna Veshi I
Naitaccha Thatvam Mum Methah Kshudhartrisharta Jananim Smaranti II


 

Meaning: O Compassionate Goddess Durga! If I remember you after falling in trouble and not before, please do not treat me like a dishonest rogue for the reason that all children yell for mother when they are troubled.


 

Jagdamb Vichitramatra Kim Paripoorna Karunaasti Chenmayi I
Aparadha Parampara Param Na Hi Mata Samupekshate Sutam II


 

Meaning: O Mother of the World! If you still show your kindness towards me should not cause any surprise for the reason, if a son has bent on committing sin after sin, still his mother does not abandon him.


 

Matsamah Palaki Nasti Papaghni Twatsama Na Hi I
Evam Gyatva Mahadevi Yatha Yogyam Tatha Kuru II


 

Meaning: O Maa Durga! I am the greatest sinner and you are the greatest sin-destroyer. Considering this fact in mind, kindly do whatever you think proper.

Ganesh Mantra

Lord Ganesha is the lord of beginnings, as per the Hindu mythology. Shri Ganesh is the remover of obstacles. Hindu God Ganesha represents wisdom, intellect and knowledge. God Ganesha is the most worshipped God of the Hindu religion. People worship Ganesha before starting any work to ensure hassle-free work. Apart from this, Ganesha is also adored by people, to bless them with right direction and stability of mind. Lord Ganesha Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Ganesh Mantra is as follows:



 

"Om Parvati Putaaye, Hara Hara Hara Mahadev
Gajaananam Bhoota Ganaadhi Sevitam
Kapitta Jamboophaala Saara Bhakshitam
Umaasutam Shoka Vinaasha Kaaranam
Namaami Vighneswara Paada Pankajam"


 

Meaning: Lord Ganesha is the Supreme Being with an elephant head. Ganesha is always attended by the group of his followers (Ganas). He loves to eat wood-apple and rose-apple fruits (Kapitta, Jamboophala). Ganpati is the son of Goddess Uma (Parvati). Ganesha is the destroyer of all misery and pain. We salute to the lotus feet God.

Hanuman Mantra

Lord Hanuman is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Shri Hanuman is the epitome of sincere devotion and dedication, being a great disciple of Lord Rama. Sri Hanuman is a celibate god, who represents strength, divinity, courage and devotion. Hanuman is worshipped by people to attain knowledge, wisdom, strength and valor. Lord Hanuman Mantra becomes part of prayers offered to the lord. Shri Hanuman Mantra or Mantra of God Hanuman is as follows:


 

"Maarutatulyavegam Jitendriyam
Buddhimataam Varistham,
Vaataatmajam Vaanarayoothmukhyam
Sriramdootam Saranam Prapadhye"


 

Meaning: Lord Hanuman is the messenger of Lord Rama. His pace is as rapid as the wind and as quick as the mind. Hanuman has constrained his sense organs. He is the most intelligent among the intelligent ones. Hanuman is the son of Vayu (Pawan) and the chief of the monkey tribe. We surrender ourselves to Lord Hanuman.

Chanting of this mantra with a sincere heart provides courage and wisdom.

Hare Krishna Mantra

Hare Krishna Mantra is considered as the mahamantra (Ultimate prayer) of Kaliyuga (The Dark Age). Kaliyuga refers to the present era of machine, where truth and morality are at their lowest level. It is believed that by repeating this mantra with faith and devotion, one can achieve salvation and peace of mind. Hare Rama Hare Krishna Mantra is as follows:



 

"Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare"


 

Meaning: Krishna takes away all grief, troubles and weaknesses. May god bless us with all the happiness.

Both, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna are the incarnations of Lord Vishnu, the preserver. Vishnu is the supreme reality and both of his incarnations are ultimate. They have attained the de-facto status. Chanting of these names, in itself, is considered auspicious. These names of God and the Hare Krishna Mantra are derived from ancient Indian texts of knowledge called Vedas.

Kali Mantra

Maha Kali is the fiercest form of Shakti or Durga, in the Hindu religion. Goddess Kali is the destroyer of evil. But Kali is also a compassionate mother who loves her sincere children. Kali is usually worshipped by tantriks to achieve "siddhis". Kali is the slayer of ego as well. Maha Kali Mantra forms part of the prayers offered to the goddess. Goddess Kali Mantra or Mantras for Maa Kali are given below:

 

"Atha Kalimantraye Sadyovaksiddhiprapyivan
Aravitairyah Sarvestam Prapnuvanti Jana Bhuvih"

"Savaruhaammahabhimaghoradanshtram Hasanmukhim
Chaturbhujamkhadagmundavarabhayakaram Shivam
Mundamaladharamdevi Lolajihvandigambaram
Evam Sanchintayetkalim Shamasanalayavsinim"

"Kreem Kreem Kreem Hreem Hreem Hoom Hoom Dakshine Kalike
Kreem Kreem Kreem Hreem Hreem Hoom Hoom Swaha"

Krishna Mantra

Lord Krishna is one of the most popular and worshipped deities of the Hindu religion. Krishna represents strength, beauty, knowledge and opulence. Shri Krishna is the very embodiment of love and divine ecstasy that destroys all pain and offense. Shri Krishna Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Lord Krishna Mantra / Mantras for Krishna are given below:

 

Yam Brahmavarunainder Rudermaruka Satuanvanti Divyaa Satvaavedaai Sans Pad Karmopanishadaaegarayanati Yam Samga I
Dhyanavasthittagatain Mansa Pashayanti Yam Yogino Yasyanatam Na Vidu Surasurgana Devai Tasmai Nama II

 

Meaning: Lord Krishna is the one, whom the creator Brahma, Varuna, Indra, Rudra and Maruts admire with divine hymns. Krishna is praised by the singers of Sama all through the Vedas and Upanishads. Krishna is observed by the ascetics (Yogis) with their minds engrossed in the divine through perfection in meditation. The limit of Krishna is not even recognized by the Gods (Devas) and Demons (Asuras). We bow to the divine Lord Krishna.

 

Tavamaksharam Paramam Vaideetvayam Tavamasya Vishwasaya Param Nidhanam I
Tavamvayaya Shashvat Dharam Gopta, Sanatan Satayam Paursho Mato Mai II

 

Meaning: Krishna's art is immortal and this is just one thing to be known. Lord Krishna is great and his art is the supreme refuge of this universe. The art of the Supreme is the eternal protector of the morality and dharma. We bow to the art of Lord Krishna, the Ancient Purusha.

Kuber Mantra

Kuber is regarded as the god of wealth, in Hindu mythology. Lord Kubera is also known as the god of yakshas (savage beings). Kubera is always remembered with the goddess of fortune, Lakshmi. Chanting of Kuber Mantra blesses the worshipper with money and prosperity by drawing new avenues and sources of income and wealth. Mantra of Kubera helps to increase the flow of funds and the ability to accumulate wealth. Kubera Mantra is as follows:

 

"Om Yakshyaya Kuberaya Vaishravanaaya Dhanadhanyadi Padayeh
Dhana-Dhanya Samreeddhing Me Dehi Dapaya Swaha"

 

Meaning: Kubera, the lord of yakshas, bless us with wealth and prosperity.

One, who worships lord Kubera and Lakshmi, can never fall short of money and material comforts. The special puja of Kubera is performed on Dusshera, Dhan triyodasi and Deepawali, asking for prosperity and his blessings.

Lakshmi Mantra

Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, luxury, beauty, power, generosity and auspiciousness. Maha Lakshmi is claimed to fulfill the promises of material, wealth and contentment. Goddess Lakshmi represents fortune, purity, courage and fertility. Maha Lakshmi Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Lakshmi Mantra / Mantras of Goddess Lakshmi are as follows:

 

"Sarvagyay Sarvavarday Sarvadushtbhaydkree
Sarvadukhaharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"

 

Meaning: O Maa Lakshmi, you know everything, you grant favors to all, you are a terror to the evil and your art removes the misery of all. O propitious goddess, I surrender to you.

 

"Siddhi Buddhipraday Devi Bhuktimuktipradayeenee
Mantramurtay Sada Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"

 

Meaning: O divine goddess, you are the provider of success and intelligence. You are the benefactor of both worldly pleasure and freedom. The magical sound symbols-the Mantras, verily comprise their form with your grace. Propitious Mother, I surrender to you always.

 

"Aadhantarhitay Devi Aadhshakti Maheshwari
Yogajay Yogasambhutay Mahalakshmi Namostutay"

 

Meaning: O Ultimate Mother, your art is without beginning and end. Your art is the primal power. Your art comes out of Yogic practice and your art is evident through Yoga. Promising Mother, I surrender to you.

 

"Sthulsukshmay Maharodray Mahashakti Mahodray
Mahapaapharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"

 

Meaning: Goddess Lakshmi, your art in gross and subtle, is the most awful and powerful. Mother, you contain all things and you remove even the greatest sins. Auspicious Mother, I surrender to you.

 

"Padnaasanstithay Devi Parbrahmaswaroopeenee
Parmashree Jaganmatra Mahalakshmi Namostutay"

 

Meaning: Maa Lakshmi, you reside in the hearts of devotees and prove the art of the Supreme Brahman. You are mother of the universe with your supreme art. O Great Mother, I bow to you.

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is a great mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is called Maha Mritunjaya Mantra because it is a great death-conquering mantra. Sometimes it is also known as Mrita-Sanjivani Mantra. The Maha Mrityunjaya mantra is hailed by the sages as the heart of the Veda. This mantra holds the highest place along with the Gayatri Mantra among the many mantras used for contemplation and meditation.

It is believed that to overcome the fear of death, Lord Shiva himself gave humanity the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. This mantra restores health, happiness and brings calmness in the period of death. When courage is blocked, it rises up to overcome obstacles. The Maha Mritunjaya Mantra is as follows:

 

"Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey
Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam
Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath
Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat"

 

Meaning: Lord Shiva is the three eyed god. Shiva is always perfumed. He fosters all the creatures of the Universe. Lord Shiva releases from death for the sake of immortality, as cucumber detaches its bondage of the vine. We worship Lord Shiva to liberate us from death.

This mantra is really powerful and even regarded as a life saving prayer

Ram Mantra

Lord Ram (Rama) is regarded as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Rama is the symbol of courtesy and virtue, a man of values and morals. Hindu God Ram is also known as Maryada Purushottama, which means the perfect man. Sri Ram is an example of idealism; he has been the ideal man, the ideal son, the ideal brother and the ideal husband. The God took birth on this earth with the aim to eradicate the wicked forces of the age. Ram Naam (Name of Ram) in itself is a divine mantra or prayer. It is believed that chanting the name "Ram" helps one to attain salvation. Mantra of Shri Ram forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Lord Rama Mantra / Ram Mantra is as follows:

 

"Shri Ram, Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram"

 

Ram is the source of each and every thing. The name "Ram" suggests divinity and brings joy to life. The name "Ram" helps to achieve mukti from this material world.

Saraswati Mantra

Saraswati is the goddess of arts, music, knowledge, and wisdom in the Hindu religion. Goddess Sarasvati is said to possess the powers of speech, wisdom and learning. Sarsvati is regarded as the dispeller of chaos and confusion. Saraswati Mantra is an important mantra of the Hindus that is recited for higher knowledge and wisdom. In India, people pray to her for guidance and knowledge. Maa Sarasvati Mantra is as follows:


 

"Yaa Kundendu Tushaara Haaradhavalaa, Yaa Shubhravastraavritha
Yaa Veenavara Dandamanditakara, Yaa Shwetha Padmaasana
Yaa Brahmaachyutha Shankara Prabhritibhir Devaisadaa Vanditha
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswati Bhagavatee Nihshesha Jaadyaapaha"

 

Meaning: Goddess Saraswati is fair and beautiful like the jasmine-colored moon. Her white garland resembles the icy dew drops. She is decked in pure white attire. A white lotus serves as the throne of Maa Saraswati, on whose arm rests Veena. We pray Maha Saraswati, who is surrounded and respected by the Gods to bestow her blessings on us. May the goddess remove our lethargy and brighten our life with light of knowledge.

Shanti Mantras

The Shanti Mantras are prayers for peace, in the Hindu Mythology. Shanti Mantras are also known as "Peace Mantras". Shanti Mantras form the part of Upanishads. These mantras are believed to cool the mind of reciter and the surroundings. Reciting these mantras at the beginning of any task is considered to remove its obstacles.

Shanti Mantras always end with three words of "Shanti" which suggests "Peace". The reason behind speaking three times "Shanti" is to cool the surroundings and remove obstacles in three realms namely; "Physical" or Adhi-Bhautika, "Devine" or Adhi-Daivika and "Internal" or Adhyaatmika. These are called "Tapa-Traya" or three classes of troubles. When Shanti Mantras are recited, obstacles from these realms are believed to be pacified. Various Shanti Mantras from different Upanishads are as follows:

From Brihadaranyaka Upanishad and Ishavasya Upanishad:



 

"Om Poornamadah Poornamidam Poornat Poornamudachyate,
Poornasya Poornamaadaya Poornamevavashishyate,
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"


 

Meaning: The literal meaning of this mantra is: "That is Absolute, This is Absolute, Absolute arises out of Absolute, If Absolute is taken away from Absolute, Absolute remains OM Peace, Peace, Peace".


 

"Om Asato Maa Sadgamaya,
Tamaso Maa Jyotir Gamaya,
Mrityor Maa Amritam Gamaya,
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"


 

Meaning: The accurate sense of this mantra is: "OM lead me from unreal to real, lead me from darkness to light, lead me from death to immortality OM Peace, Peace, Peace".

From Taittiriya Upanishad:


 

"Om Sham No Mitra Sham Varunah Sham No Bhavatvaryamaa,
Sham Na Indro Brihaspatih Sham No Vishnururukramah,
Namo Brahmane Namaste Vaayo Tvameva Pratyaksham,
Brahmaasi Tvaameva Pratyaksham Brahma Vadishyaami,
Rtam Vadishyaami Satyam Vadishyaami,
Tanmaamavatu Tadvaktaaramavatu Avatu Maam Avatu Vaktaaram,
Om Shantih Shantih Shantih"


 

Meaning: This Mantra implies: "OM. May Mitra do good to us, may Varuna do good to us, may Aryama do good to us, may Indra do good to us, may Brihaspati do good to us, and may Vishnu who has vast coverage do good to us. We Salute Lord Brahma and Lord Vayu, the only visible Brahman. We say right, we say truth, may it protect us and may it protect teacher. OM Peace, Peace and Peace"

From Taittiriya Upanishad, Katha Upanishad and Shvetashvatara Upanishad:


 

"Om Sahanaa Vavatu Sahanau Bhunaktu
Saha Veeryam Karavaavahai
Tejasvi Naavadheetamastu Maa Vidvishaavahai
Om Shantih Shantih Shantih"


 

Meaning: The literal meaning of this mantra is: "OM. Let all of us protect each other together, may all of us enjoy together, may all of us work together and let our study become radiant. Let there be no hatred between us, OM Peace, Peace, Peace"

From Kena Upanishad and Chandogya Upanishad:


 

"Om Aapyaayantu Mamaangaani Vaak
Praanashchakshuh Shrotramatho
Balamindriyaani Cha Sarvaani Sarvam Brahmopanishadam
Maaham Brahma Niraakuryaam Maa Maa Brahma Niraakarod
Niraakaranamastva Niraakaranam Me Astu
Tadaatmani Nirate Ya Upanishatsu Dharmaaste
Mayi Santu Te Mayi Santu
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"


 

Meaning: The Mantra implies: "OM. May our organs, speech, Prana, eyes and ears be nourished. May all our senses become strong. Upanishad says all that the World is Brahman. We don't reject Brahman, may Brahma not reject me. Let there be no rejection, let there be no rejection at all in us, let us concentrate on ourselves, all those ways of righteous living told in Upanishads be in us! Be in us, OM Peace, Peace and Peace".

From Aitareya Upanishad:


 

"Om Vaang Me Manasi Pratishthitaa
Mano Me Vaachi Pratishthitam
Aaveeraaveerma Edhi Vedasya Ma Aanisthah
Shrutam Me Maa Prahaaseer Anenaadheetena
Ahoraatraan Samdadhaami Ritam Vadishyaami
Satyam Vadishyaami Tanmaamavatu Tadvaktaaramavatu
Avatu Maam Avatu Vaktaaram Avatu Vaktaaram
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"


 

Meaning: The accurate meaning of this mantra is: "OM. Let our speech be established in our mind, and our mind be established in our speech. Let Brahman reveal itself to us and may we understand the truths of the Vedas. Let not what we have studied leave us. Let all of us spend both day and night in study. We say right, we say truth and may it protect us. May truth protect teacher. OM Peace, Peace, Peace".

From Mundaka Upanishad, Mandukya Upanishad and Prashna Upanishad:


 

"Om Bhadram Karnebhih Shrunuyaama Devaah
Bhadram Pashyemaakshabhiryajatraah
Sthirairangaistushtuvaamsastanoobhih
Vyashema Devahitam Yadaayuh
Swasti Na Indro Vridhashravaah
Swasti Nah Pooshaa Vishwavedaah
Swasti Nastaarkshyo Arishtanemih
Swasti No Brihaspatir Dadhaatu
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih"


 

Meaning: The literal meaning of this mantra is: "OM. O Gods! Let us hear promising things from our ears. O respectful Gods! Let us see propitious things from our eyes, let our organs and body be stable, healthy and strong. Let us do what is pleasing to gods in the life span allotted to us. May Indra, inscribed in the scriptures do well to us, May Pushan who is knower of world do good to us and May Trakshya who devastates enemies do good to us! May Brihaspati do well to us! OM Peace, Peace, Peace".

Shiva Mantra

Lord Shiva or Siva is considered as the destroyer of the world. Shiv is one of the most popular Gods of the Hindu religion. Shiva is one of the complex gods who is rudra as well as kind-hearted, simultaneously. Mantra of Hindu God Shiva forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Shiv or Shiva Mantras are as follows:




 

"Vande Deva Umaa Pathim Suragurum
Vande Jagat Kaaranam
Vande Pannaga Bhooshanam Mruga Dharam
Vande Pashoonam Pathim
Vande Soorya Shashanka Vahni Nayanam
Vande Mukunda Priyam
Vande Bhakta Jana Ashrayam Cha Varadam
Vande Shiva Shankaram"


 

Meaning: Lord Shiva is the consort of Uma (Parvati). Shiva is the divine Guru, the source of the universe. Lord Shiva is decked with snake and wears tiger skin. He is the Lord of all creatures. The three eyes of the lord represent the Sun, Moon and Fire. Shiva is near to Lord Vishnu. Lord Shiva protects all of his devotees. He is the benefactor of boons. We surrender ourselves again and again to Lord Shiva.


 

"Mrutyunjayaaya Rudraaya
Neelakantaaya Shambhave
Amriteshaaya Sarvaaya
Mahadevaaya Te Namaha"


 

Meaning: Lord Mahadeva (Shiva) has conquered death. He is the destructive force of the universe. He has a blue neck and he gives happiness to all. We pray to the kind-hearted lord, Shiv-Shambhu.

 

"Gauri Vallabha Kaamaarey
Kaala Koota Vishaasana
Maam Uddhhare Padambhoje
Tripura Agnyata Kaantaka"

 

Meaning: Lord Kaamaarey (another name for Lord Shiva) protects us from the evil. He is the consort of Gauri, the mother goddess. He drank the "Kaala Koota" poison (which was the outcome of the ocean churning). He is the destroyer of the three cities. We seek protection at the feet of Lord Shiva.

Surya Namaskar Mantra

Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is a form of worshiping God by meditating on the Sun, the energy provider. Surya Namaskar is useful in achieving concentration. Surya Namaskara is always performed in the open air, facing the Sun, at sunrise. Surya Namaskar is not just a physical exercise. For each of the postures, there is a particular breathing pattern to be followed. With each posture, a particular mantra - name of the sun is chanted. Surya Namaskar Mantras or Mantras for Surya Namaskara are given below:

 

Om Mitraaya Namah
Om Ravaye Namah
Om Sooryaya Namah
Om Bhaanave Namah
Om Khagaaya Namah
Om Pooshne Namah
Om Hiranya Garbhaaya Namah
Om Mareechaye Namah
Om Aadityaaya Namah
Om Savitre Namah
Om Arkaaya Namah
Om Bhaaskaraya Namah
Om Sri Savitra Soorya Narayanaaya Namah

Vishnu Mantra

Lord Vishnu is considered as the preserver of the universe as per the Hindu Mythology. It is believed that Vishnu is an eternal and universal spirit associated with the primeval waters that pervaded before the creation of the universe. Vishnu Mantra forms the part of prayers offered to the lord. Sri Vishnu Mantra is as follows:

 

"Shaantaakaaram Bhujagashayanam Padmanaabham Suresham
Vishwaadhaaram Gaganasadrasham Meghavarnam Shubhaangam
Lakshmikaantam Kamalanayanam Yogibhirdhyaanagamyam
Vande Vishnum Bhavabhayaharam Sarvalokaikanaatham"

 

Meaning: Lord Vishnu is the preserver and protector of the Universe. He is always quiet and rests on the great serpent bed. The lotus of the creative power springs from the navel of Lord Vishnu. He is the Ultimate Power, who supports the entire universe. The divine Lord Vishnu is all-pervading as the sky and dark like the clouds. Vishnu, the lotus-eyed one, is the Lord of Lakshmi. The ascetics (yogis) observe Lord Vishnu through meditation. Lord Vishnu is the destroyer of the fear of Samsar. We surrender to such great lord.

 

 

Durga Mantra

Goddess Durga is a form of Shakti and is believed to be the deity of vengeance and victory. In Sanskrit Durga means as the one who is indomitable and cannot be conquered. The origin of goddess Durga is related to the terror of demon Mahishasura. It was to end this demon that goddess Durga incarnated and received great weapons and powers from all the gods. Many a times the goddess is hailed as the mother of the Universe. Given below are few mantras dedicated to the goddess.

Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Maa rupena samsthitaa I
Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Shakti rupena samsthitaa I
Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Buddhi rupena samsthitaa I
Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu Laxmi rupena samsthitaa I
Namestasyai II Namestasyai II Namestasyai II


II Namo Namah II
You are the divine goddess who is the mother of the universe looking after her children. You reside in the form of Shakti which is the ultimate power and energy. O mother you reside in the form of wisdom and also in the form of wealth. We bow to you the greatest mother and continuously do so.

Jagdamb Vichitramatra Kim Paripoorna Karunaasti Chenmayi I
Aparadha Parampara Param Na Hi Mata Samupekshate Sutam II


O mother of the world Jagdamba, you are the one who looks after her children. Your love and kindness towards me is no surprise O mother goddess. Being a mother you forget all our sins and correct us without abandoning your children.

Sharanaagata dinaarta
Paritraana paraayane
Sarvasyaarti harey Devi
Naraayani namostute


Greetings to you O mother Durga, you are the one who brings all the downtrodden under her shelter. You look after the interests of the distressed by taking them in your refuge. Namaskar to you O Devi who removes the afflictions of everyone.

Aapatsu Magnah Smaranam Tvadeeyam Karomi Durge Karunarna Veshi I
Naitaccha Thatvam Mum Methah Kshudhartrisharta Jananim Smaranti II


O kindhearted goddess Durga, please forgive me if I recall your name after facing afflictions and not before it. Do not consider me a deceitful rogue as all children call out to their mothers when they are hurt and troubled.

Brahma Mantra

Constituting the trinity of Hindu gods is Lord Brahma, the creator of the Universe. He is the generator of life on earth, a role which he performed by creating eleven 'Prajapatis' for fathering human race. As the lord commanding supreme knowledge, his four faces represent the 'gyan' (knowledge) of the four Vedas which he continuously recites. The creator lord is especially popular amongst intellectual people, students, scholars, educationists for his extensive hold over knowledge and intellect. Given below is the Sanskrit mantra dedicated to lord Brahma with its meaning.

Om namo rajo jushei sristau
Sthithou sattwa mayayacha
Tamo mayaya sam-harinei
Vishwarupayavedhasei
Om brahmanyei namaha


Lord Brahma is 'Om' who created this Universe and to him we pay are salutations. The creation of the cosmic world was achieved by him with the help of three 'gunas' or qualities. The three qualities of nature are the positive, negative and inert qualities. It is Brahma who created all the forms present in this world and to this supreme god I bow down.

Ganesha Mantra

Lord Ganesha is believed to be the remover of all impediments and hence is called 'Vighneshwara' (remover of obstacles). The elephant deity is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is deeply revered across India and beyond. The pot bellied god is believed to govern wisdom, success and spiritual power. Before beginning any auspicious task, Lord Ganesha is invoked by prayers. Given below are the mantras dedicated to Ganpati with their meanings.

Vakrtund Mahakaya Surya Koti Samaprabha |
Nirbhignam Kurumedaya Sarva Karyashu Sarvada |


This particular mantra or sloka is chanted before beginning any auspicious task. The Lord Ganpati as the remover of all impediments is invoked by reciting this mantra. The Lord of mighty body and possessing the curved trunk, who has the radiance of thousand suns, I pray to you to remove all hurdles from the task I intend to perform.

Aum Tatpurushaye vidmahe
Vakratundaye dhimahi
tanno dantih prachodayat


We dedicate our attention to the supreme being, we meditate looking at the curved tusk lord. We invoke you O lord to show us the right path.

Aum ekdantaya vidmahe
Vakratundaye dhimahi
tanno dantih prachodayat


O One tusked lord we pray to you. We meditate looking at him who has a curved tusk. We invoke you O lord to lead us towards the right path.

Aum Sri Ganeshaye Namah
This simple chant of the name of Sri Ganesh is perhaps the easiest way of invoking the god. This particular chant is especially taught to children to increase their memory and remove all fears from their young minds. The chant simply offers salutations to Sri Ganesha.

Gayatri Mantra

Gayatri Mantra is regarded as the foremost mantra in Hindu belief. It is believed to be the mother of all mantras and is recited by millions of people to gain spiritual solace and enlightenment. This popular mantra is found in the Vedic texts and since ancient times is believed to be a powerful chant which enables a person to gain wisdom and follow a righteous path. The significance of the mantra lies in the fact that this simple mantra is dedicated to both the Sun god as well as goddess Gayatri (mother of the Vedas) who is closely associated with goddess Saraswati. Mentioned below is the Gayatri mantra with its meaning. The mantra is often referred to as the "Mantra of spiritual light".

Aum bhoor bhuwah swaha,
Tat savitur varenyam
Bhargo devasaya dheemahi
Dhiyo yo naha prachodayat


The summary of the Gayatri Mantra is that may the lord guide us towards the righteous path, enlightening us by removing our ignorance. O Almighty Lord may we pray to you, who is the embodiment of spiritual energy, remover of all suffering, who bequeaths all happiness to us, who is the manifestation of knowledge and light. To you O lord, O great spiritual light we pray to illuminate our minds with intellect and wisdom by removing our sins and acts of ignorance.

Hanuman Mantra

Lord Hanuman or the monkey deity is one of the most revered god of India. Lord Hanuman is venerated as the greatest disciple of Lord Sri Ram. He is believed to be an avatar (incarnation) of Lord Shiva. He is seen as the embodiment of devotion and loyalty and is one of the rare Hindu god who has taken a vow of celibacy. Mentioned below is the Sri Hanuman Mantra which is often chanted by the followers of Bajrangabali to pay obeisance to the lord.

Manojavam Maarutatulyavegam
Jitendriyam buddhimataamVaristham,
Vaataatmajam Vaanarayoothmukhyam
Sriramdootam saranam Prapadhye.


I submit myself to you O lord Hanuman the envoy of Lord Sri Ram. You are the son of wind and hence your speed and mind is as swift as the wind. The lord has full control over his sensory organs. He is the wisest among the wise men and heads the vanars (monkeys). You are the greatest O dear lord Hanuman, the messenger of Sri Ram.

Kali Mantra

Goddess Kali is the ferocious avatar of Devi Shakti, born to remove the terror of demons from earth. The name of goddess Kali is derived from the Sanskrit root 'kal' meaning time. The goddess is believed to be the slayer of all ego a human being possesses. She is hence the goddess of death responsible for killing the ego of a man. The goddess is revered across the country but her popularity is unmatched in the state of West Bengal. Here the goddess is revered in each and every household of a Bengali. The Mantra dedicated to goddess Kali is believed to take one to a different spiritual plane and is specially recited by Yogis during meditation.

Aum Eim Hreem Kleem Sheem Kaaleeshwari
Sarva Jana Mano haarini Sarva mukha Stambhini

Sarba raaj vash karee sarva dushta Nirdalani
Sarva Stree Purushaa Karshinee

vadhee Shrinkhalaa Strotaya Trotaya
Sarva Shatroon Bhanjaya

Bhanjaya Dvesheen Nirdalaya Sarvaan
Stambhaya Stambhaya Mohnaa Strena

Dveshina Muchaataya Uchaataya
Sarvam vasham karu karu svaaha

Dehi dehi sarvaa Kaal raatri Kaamini
Ganeshvaryei Namaha

Krishna Mantra

The incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura and looked after by Nand and Yashoda in Vrindavan. The mischievous lord is prayed to mostly in his baby and youth form widely across India and beyond. A recitation of the mantras dedicated to Sri Krishna is believed to be a great purifying act in the age of Kalyuga where sinful acts gain importance. These mantras provide spiritual solace and peace of mind which is unmatched. On top of it knowing the meaning of these Sanskrit mantras is an added advantage. Find out some of the mantras dedicated to Sri Krishna with their meanings.

"Om Krishnaya Namah"
This small chant is often recited by believers in their daily course of life. This chant means that accept my salutations O Sri Krishna.

"Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare"


This divine mantra is chanted by believers to take them on a higher spiritual plane. One can often find Indians as well as non Indians chanting this beautiful mantra which transports them into another divine world, directly connecting their soul with Sri Krishna. A chant of Sri Krishna's name takes away all the miseries and grief's from one's life and mind. Sri Krishna and Lord Rama are both two bodies but one being, as they are the incarnation of Sri Hari Vishnu. This mantra is derived from the repository of knowledge - the Vedas. Both these names are the ultimate truth and hence give immense peace of mind.

"Om Sri Krishnah sharanam mamah"
Krishna literally means the one who attracts all. To the beloved lord Krishna I pray to take me under his shelter, I surrender to you O lord.

Yam Brahmavarunainder Rudermarukaa Satuanvanti Divya Satvavedaai
Sans Pad Karmopanishadaaegarayanati Yam Samga I
Dhyanavasthittagatain Mansa Pashayanti Yam Yogino Yasyanatam Na Vidu
Surasurganaa Devaai Tasmai Namah II


The divine Sri Krishna is the lord who is pleased and admired with singing hymns by Brahma, Indra, Varuna, Shiva and Ganesha. In the Vedas and Upanishads the lord is praised in songs of Sama singers. Lord Krishna is constantly governing the thoughts of ascetics (yogis) in meditation. The divine Krishna is limitless and not even gods or demons can define the limit of Sri Krishna. To such a supreme deity I offer my salutations. Accept my regards O lord.


 

Kuber Mantra

Lord Kuber is believed to be the lord of riches and wealth in Hinduism. Kuber Sadhana is considered a great way of pleasing the lord to bestow one with wealth and fortune. Kuber is many a times called the treasurer of gods. If pleased with you the lord opens avenues of wealth and riches for believers. Lord Kuber is also believes to be the head of the Yakshas (savage beings). The Yakshas are both human and demon and are responsible for the security of the treasures hidden beneath the earth of the great mountain Himalayas.

"Om yakshyaya kuberaya vaishravanaaya dhanadhanyadi pathayeh
Dhana-dhanya samruthime dehi tapaya swaha"


O great king of the Yakshas, the commander of all wealth and fortune, we pray to you to grant us material wealth and prosperity. By this prayer, O lord kindly hasten the move of granting boons to your devotee.

Lakshmi Mantra

Goddess Lakshmi is the consort of Sri Hari Vishnu, and is known to be the deity of wealth. The goddess grants her believers wealth, prosperity and fortune but never promotes materialism. The powerful goddess is one of the most popular household goddess and is prayed to widely across the country and beyond. Reciting the mantras dedicated to the goddess is a unique way of praying to mother Maha Lakshmi. Find out the Sanskrit mantras with their meanings here.

"Om Sri Maha Lakshmyai Namah"
This simple mantra is often chanted by people in their day to day course of work. The chant simply means salutations to O great goddess Maha Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune and wealth.

"Sarvagyay Sarvavarday Sarvadushtbhaydkree
Sarvadukhaharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"


O divine Goddess Ma Lakshmi, nothing is hidden from you. You grant all favors to your children removing all miseries from their lives and on the other hand are fearsome for the evil. Accept my salutations O auspicious goddess.

"Padnaasanstithay Devi Parbrahmaswaroopeene
Parmashree Jaganmatra Mahalakshmi Namostutay"


O mother Lakshmi you are like supreme Brahman and reside in the hearts of all your devotees. O Devi you are the mother of the entire Universe and to you I offer all my respects and salutations.

"Sthulsukshmay Maharodray Mahashakti Mahodray
Mahapapharay Devi Mahalakshmi Namostutay"


You know it all O mother goddess, nothing is hidden from you. O mother you are the one who removes all the sins and grant boons. O propitious goddess I bow to you, accept my salutations.

Ram Mantra

Lord Ram is believed to be the seventh incarnation of Sri Hari Vishnu. Bhagwan Ram is believed to be the ideal man in human birth - Maryada Purushottam. Lord Sri Rama is believed to have taken birth on earth in the Treta Yug to wipe out evil forces like the demon king Ravana. Lord Ram is perhaps the most popular among the pantheon of Hindu gods. Shrines dedicated to the lord are found widely across India and beyond. The biggest festival of the Hindus Diwali is associated with the return of Lord Sri Ram to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. Given below is the simple Ram mantra which is the most popular way of paying obeisance to the lord.

"Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram"
The word Ram is the essence of everything. A mere chant of Lord Ram is so powerful that the body and soul of the chanter experiences divinity and spiritual solace. Lord Ram is the foremost step to ultimately gain salvation.


 

Saraswati Mantra

The consort of Lord Brahma, Ma Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge and the arts. It is believed that she is the creative manifestation of Lord Brahma who is the creator of the Universe. The goddess is also known as Vakdevi or the goddess of speech. It is she who endows all human beings with wisdom, arts, and intellect. The four armed goddess plays the Veena with her two hands and in the other two hands holds the lotus flower and the holy Vedas. It is she who is believed to be the mother of the four Vedas. The goddess is particularly revered by students, teachers, scholars and educationists. Given below is the mantra dedicated to goddess Saraswati with its meaning.

Yaa Kundendu tushaara haaradhavala, Yaa shubhravastravritha I
Yaa veenavara dandamanditakara, Yaa shweta padmaasana II
Yaa brahmaachyutha shankara prabhritibhir Devaisadaa Vanditha I
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswatee Bhagavatee Nihshesha jaadyaapahaa II


The mantra is a plea to goddess Saraswati by her devotee. O fair and beautiful faced like the jasmine color moon goddess, the one whose neck is adorned by the pure white garland like the glacial dew drops; who is dressed beautifully in pure white attire; in whose radiant arms rests the Veena; who sits on the pure white lotus; and is enveloped by all the gods, may this mother goddess protect me. Relieve me of all ignorance and sluggishness O Ma Saraswati.


 

Shiva Mantra

Lord Shiva is hailed as the destroyer amongst the trinity of Hindu gods. Known by many names like Rudra, Neelkantha, Shankar, Bholenath , the Lord is believed to be the one who is responsible for destruction of the world to create a new world and once again begin the cycle of creation and pro creation. Shiva is one of the unique gods who is both a symbol for ascetics as well as householders. The mantras dedicated to the lord are a way of praying to him. Given below are some of the Shiva mantras with their meanings.

II Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra II
Om Tryambakam yajamahe
Sugandhim pushti-vardhanam
Urvarukamiva bandhanan
Mrityor mukshiya mamritat

This is a very powerful chant dedicated to Lord Shiva. This mantra is believed to be the death conquering mantra and is found in the Rig Veda. The mantra is sometimes also referred to as the Mrita-Sanjivini mantra as it has the power to restore life in a dying person. In this potent mantra the lord is referred to as the three eyed god. It is a plea to him to restore life in the dying body. Worshipping the lord will liberate one from death just like the ripe cucumber is separated from the binding stalk.

II Shiva Mantra II
"Mrutyunjayaaya Rudraaya
Neelakantaya Shambhave
Amriteshaaya Sarvaaya
Mahadevaaya Te Namaha"

O Lord Shiva you are the one who has conquered death and are responsible for destruction of the Universe to let life again prevail on earth. O lord you are Neelkantha as you have a blue throat. We pay obeisance to you O lord with are hands folded in namaskar.

Surya Mantra

Surya Dev is the personification of Sun. The following mantra is dedicated to the sun god. Surya Namaskar Mantra is a unique mantra recited while performing a yogic asana with the same name. With each successive movement of the asana, the mantra is recited. Thus the asana has thirteen postures which begin and end in a namaskar. The mantra is all but salutations to the sun god. The mantra is a recital of various names of Surya Devta. Surya Namaskara is usually performed at sunrise but people perform the asana at any time of the day whenever they are free.

Om Mitraaya Namah
Om Ravaye Namah
Om Sooryaya Namah
Om Bhaanave Namah
Om Khagaaya Namah
Om Pooshne Namah
Om Hiranya Garbhaaya Namah
Om Mareechaye Namah
Om Aadityaaya Namah
Om Savitre Namah
Om Arkaayae Namah
Om Bhaaskaraya Namah
Om Sri Savitra Soorya Narayanaaya Namah

Vishnu Mantra

The sustainer of the world Lord Sri Hari Vishnu constitutes the trinity of Hindu gods. The chanting of Vishnu Mantra gives one immense pleasure and spiritual solace. The following mantra dedicated to lord Vishnu is a way of praying to the deity. It includes the summary of the role the lord performs and his position in the cosmic settings.

Shaantaakaaram
Bhujagashayanam
Padmanaabham suresham

Vishwaadhaaram
Gaganasadrasham
Meghavarnam shubhaangam

Lakshmikaantam
Kamalanayanam
Yogibhirdhyaanagamyam

Vande vishnum
Bhavabhayaharam
Sarvalokaikanaatham


Lord Sri Hari Vishnu is the master of the Universe and looks ever so peaceful while reclining on the great serpent Shesha. It is from the navel of this great lord that Lord Brahma the creative force behind this Universe emerged. He is the ultimate power the one who supports the entire universe. The lord is as limitless as the vast sky and has the color of the dark clouds. He is the Lord of the beautiful goddess Lakshmi; the lotus eyed one. The great yogis remember him during meditation to attain spiritual solace. It is Sri Hari Vishnu who removes the fear from our minds about samsar or the world we live in. Such is our great Prabhu Vishnu to whom we pray.