Stotra Mantra Sangraha

-
(stotra-mantra sagraha)
ruti smti purn laya karulayam |

nammi bhagavatpda akara loka akaram ||
For Personal Use Only
Table of Contents
PREFACE.............................................................................................................................................................7
TRANSLITERATION SCHEME .......................................................................................................................8
1.
(prrthan) ........................................................................................................................... 9
2.
(parabrahma
prta smaraa stotram) by Adi Shankara .............. 10
3.
(guruparampar
smaraam) ......................................................................... 11
GANESHA STOTRAS ............................................................................................................... 14
4.
(r
sankaanana gaea stotram) ................................................. 14
5.
(r
vighnevara oaanmastotram) ............................................. 15
6.
(a
vimocana gaea stotram) ........................................................... 16
7.
(r
mahgaeapacaratnastotram) * Page 452 in MPB............. 18
GURU STOTRAS........................................................................................................................ 19
8.
(guru gta) selected verses ............................................................................................ 19
9.

(r
gurustotram) ..................................................................................................... 20
10.
(gurupdukastotram)
by Shankaracharya ................................................ 22
11.
(toakakam)
by Sri Totakacharya ................................................................... 25
12.
(manpacakam)
by Adi Shankara ................................................................ 28
DEVI STOTRAS ......................................................................................................................... 32

13.
(lalitpacakam) by Adi Shankara .................................................................. 33
14.

(radbhujagapraytakam)
by Adi Shankara ......................... 34
15.
(r
lalit sahasranma stotram) * Page 557 in MPB .............. 37
16.
(mnkpacaratnam)
* Page 500 in MPB................................................ 37
17.
(mnkstotram) * Page 502 in MPB ........................................................ 37
18.
(annaprstotram)
* Page 505 in MPB ................................................... 37
19.
(kanakadhrstotram)
* Page 514 in MPB ............................................. 37
20.
(mahlakmyaakam) * Page 517 in MPB...............................................37
VISHNU STOTRAS....................................................................................................................38
21.
(r
kakam) ......................................................................................................39
22.
(r
raganthakam) - by Adi Shankara ......................................................41
23.
(rgovindakam)
- by Adi Shankara .............................................................43
24.
(madhuraka)
by Sri Vallabhacharya.............................................................47
25.
(r
rma stotra) ...............................................................................................49
26.
(tm rma loka) by Adi Shankara...........................................................49
27.
(ekalok
rmyaam) .................................................................................49
28.
(ekalok
mahbhratam) ..........................................................................50
29.
(ekalok
bhgavatam)..................................................................................50
30.
(narasihamantram)
...........................................................................................51
31.
(rmantrarjapada
stotram) from Paancharaatra Agama ...................51
32.
(viu
apad stotram) * Page 587 in MPB ...........................................53
SHIVA STOTRAS .......................................................................................................................54

33.
(r dakimrti hynalok) .....................................................55
34.
(r
dakimrtistotram) by Adi Shankara ..........................................57
35.
(upadea
pacakam) * Page 585 in MPB.....................................................60
36.
(ivpardhakampaastotram)
by Adi Shankara ........................60
37.
(ivnandalahar) by Adi Shankara (Selected verses) .....................................67
38.
(bilvakam)
............................................................................................................70
39.
(ligakam)
.............................................................................................................72
40.
(rudrakam)
by Goswami Tulasidas .....................................................................74
.14
(ivottara atanmvali) ...............................................................77
42.
(ivamnasapj) * Page 470 in MPB............................................................79

4
43.
(ivapackarastotra)
* Page 459 in MPB ............................................ 79
44.
(dvdaajyotirligasmaraa)
* Page 463 in MPB ...................... 79
45.
(vedasraivastotram)
* Page 464 in MPB ............................................. 79
46.
(r kailsapatiprrthan) * Page 471 in MPB ..................................... 79
47.
(ardhanrvarastotram)
* Page 473 in MPB ........................................ 79
48.
(klabhairavakam)
* Page 482 in MPB .................................................. 79
49.
(r

subrahmaya bhujagam) by Adi Shankara ................................... 80
50.
(subramaya
karvalamba stotram) ................................................ 90
51.
(par pj) by Adi Shankara ..................................................................................... 93
52.
(viveka cmai - brahmabhvan) by Adi Shankara ............ 95
VEDA MANTRAS ...................................................................................................................... 99

53.
(gaapatyatharvaropaiat)
Page 168 in MPB ........................ 99
54.
(laghunysaha) Page 348 in MPB .................................................................... 99
55.
(r rudraprana) Page 352 in MPB ............................................................... 99
56.
(camakaprana) Page 360 in MPB ................................................................. 99
57.
(puruasktam)
Page 398 in MPB ................................................................... 99
58.
(naryaasktam)
Page 400 in MPB............................................................ 99
59.
(viusktam)
Page 402 in MPB ..................................................................... 99
60.
(durgsktam)
Page 409 in MPB ...................................................................... 99
61.
(rsktam)
Page 403 in MPB .............................................................................. 99
62.
(sanysasktam)
Page 42 in MPB ................................................................ 99
63.
(ivopsana mantr) Page 45 in MPB .................................................. 99
64.
(mantrapupam)
Page 446 in MPB ................................................................... 99
65.
- (taittiryopaniat
-ka yajur) Page 17 in MPB .................... 99
66.
(upaniadvkyni) ............................................................................................99
i.
(a
-
- ukla yajur)
ii.
- (mkya - atharvaa) Page 196, 197 in MPB .......................................99
iii.
- (kena sma) Page 206 in MPB ........................................................................99
Page 7, 8 in MPB ..............................................................99
iv. (kaivalya - atharvaa) Page 312 in MPB .....................................................99

v.
- (mahnryaa - ka yajur) Page 38 in MPB ..............................99
67.
(ivasakalpa) .................................................................................................. 100
68.

( ....) - malpakaraam / puyhavcanam ............... 105
69.
(pacmtbhiecanamantr) ............................................................. 107
70.
(sanysa
sktam) .............................................................................................. 108
71.
(nti mantra) .................................................................................................... 109
PREFACE
This is a collection of the Stotras and Veda Mantras taught in the Veda-Melbourne Group. Sri M.
Neelakantan has been conducting classes for the group since 2003.
In our tradition Ishwara Puja or Ishwara Aradhana is considered to be a Nithyakarma (compulsory
ritual). This is made compulsory because this is one exercise where we invoke our relationship with
the Lord. Every relationship in our life is important but the relationship with Ishwara is the most
fundamental and permanent relationship. So scriptures point out to keep this relationship active and
well nourished. One way of invoking the relationship with the Lord and nourishing it is by awakening
the Bhakta in an individual through regular puja. For the sake of puja the scriptures attribute special
forms to the formless God. This is the uniqueness of Vedic religion. Knowing that God is formless,
Veda has deliberately superimposed special forms and fantastic features to the Lord. Since the
human mind seeks variety and may not accept a single form, the scriptures attribute multiple forms
like Shiva form, Krishna form, Devi form, Ardhanareeshwara form, Subramanya form etc. It is to be
noted that all forms are manifestations of the one and only Brahman and the seeming differences are
only in names and forms. There are absolutely no superior-inferior differences between Gods.
Along with many other benefits, appropriate chanting of the Veda Mantras instills one-pointed
concentration in the mind. Several Mahatmas have composed many Stotras extolling the greatness of
Lord and giving in them the essence of the Vedic scriptures in easily comprehensible form. Stotras
and Veda Mantras are taught in the Veda-Melbourne Group with the intention that the spiritual
aspirant adopts them as part of Nithya Upasana, reflect on the deeper significance, digest and
internalize the same. Many topics related to Dharma, teachings of Mahatmas and Vedanta are also
discussed in the class for instigating the spiritual thought process in the mind of the seeker.
It has to be noted that the purpose is neither to mechanically perform the puja nor to seek some
material benefits from the performance of puja. The path and the goal are very clear (repeatedly
emphasized by Sri Neelakantan in the class):
Puja Purification (Chitta Shuddi & Chitta Ekagrata) + Satsangam Vedanta

Vicharam Vishwarupa Ishwara Darshanam Ishwara Aikyam/Moksham.
It is certain that a sincere spiritual aspirant will tread the path and reach the goal by the grace of the
Lord and careful practice.
This document has many references to Mantra Pushpam book (published by Ramakrishna Math
referred as MPB in this document). This compendium should be used along with the MPB for
completeness.
Heartfelt thanks to Sri Neelakantan for his ceaseless inspiration and also for providing valuable
inputs to this compilation. Deep gratitude is due to the volunteers of online websites like
Sanskritdocuments.org and Stotraratna.sathyasaibababrotherhood.org from where most of the
Stotras and their meanings have been sourced. Thanks to Sringeri.net (Sringeri Sharada Peetham
website) for the beautiful pictures of Adi Shankara and Sharadambal.
01-Nov-12
7
Hari Om
TRANSLITERATION SCHEME
Each Stotra in this collection is presented in three formats Devanagari, English Transliteration and
simple English translation (Exception: only Devanagari text is provided for the VEDA MANTRAS
and Shiva Ashtottara Shata Namavali).
English Transliteration is provided to help people who are new to Devanagari script. It is expected
that the student learns the Stotras from a teacher to get the appropriate pronunciation and other
benefits (request to abstain from self-learning). In the process, if a taste for Sanskrit arises and the
student learns the divine language, it will be a boon!
A simple translation has been provided for the Stotras to serve as pointers. Most of the Stotras have
deeper significance and elaborate commentaries are available on the same.
This document has been prepared using ITranslator-2003 (free utility which converts iTRANS 5.3
encoded texts into Devanagari and Transliteration script). Thanks to www.omkarananda-ashram.org
for developing and making the utility freely available. Provided below is the transliteration scheme.
Vowels
Devanagari
Transliteration
e ai
Au a
Consonants / Sonorants / Special Characters
ya
ka kha Ga Gha a
ra
om
la
kta
ca cha
Ja
Jha
va
tra
ha a ha
dda
sa
ca
T
a
tha Da Dha Na
ha
la
ka
ja
'
pa pha Ba Bha ma
Few Special Characters
Sonorants
Consonants
1. (prrthan)

om r gurubhyo nama| hari om|
gan tv gaapatigm havmahe kavi kavnmupamaravastamam |

jyeharja brahma brahmaaspata na ruvanntibhi sda sdanam ||
r mahgaapathaye nama ||
Salutations to Ganapati, O Lord of the Ganas (celestial hosts), wisest of all, abundantly glorious, the
eldest amongst all, is of the nature of Brahman (Absolute Consciousness), please listen to our
prayers and be seated within us. I offer my namaskaras to Sri Mahaganapati.
gurave sarva lokn bhiaje

bhavarogi |
nidhaye sarva vidyn r
dakimrttaye nama ||
asmad gurucararavindbhy nama ||
I prostrate to Sri Dakshinamurti, who is the Guru of all the worlds, who is the physician to those
afflicted with the disease of worldly existence (samsaara), who is the abode of all knowledge. I
offer my namaskaras to the feet of my Guru.
sarasvat namastubhya varade kmarpi

|
vidyrambha kariymi
siddhirbhavatumesad ||
r mahsarasvatyai nama ||
Salutations to Sarasvati, the granter of boons, the fulfiller of all desires (Dharmic). I am beginning
my studies, may there be always success for me. I offer my namaskaras to Sri Mahasarasvati.
jnnandamaya deva nirmala

spaikkti |
dhra sarvavidyn
hayagrvamupsmahe ||
r hayagrva mrttaye nama ||
I worship Lord Hayagriva, who is embodiment of knowledge, who is pure as a crystal and who is the
basis of all knowledge. I offer my namaskaras to Sri Hayagriva.
*****
2. (parabrahma
prta smaraa stotram)
by Adi Shankara
Note: In the following three verses, Acharya has brought out the essence of Advaita Vedanta. Along
with chanting the prayer, it is equally important to meditate on the deep meaning of the verses.
Brahman eludes categorization; it is not within the limits of ideas and words. The so-called
individual soul is non-different from it. The soul is not to be confused with the body-mind-intellect
complex. The elements that constitute the world are but illusory appearances on the basic reality. As
the sun of wisdom rises, these illusions disappear, and the goal of life is reached.
prta smarmi hdi sasphuradtmatatva

saccitsukha paramahasagati turyam |
yat svapnajrasuuptimavaiti nitya
tad brahma nikalamaha na ca bhtasagha
||1||

Early in the morning, I contemplate on the reality of Atman, the Existence-Awareness-Bliss Absolute
which pulsates clearly in the heart (as I, I). It is the goal of the great realized souls; it is the fourth
state ever witnessing and illuminating the three states of waking, dream and sleep. I am that
Brahman which is indivisible and not at all the conglomerate of the five elements (ether, fire, water,
air and earth).
prtarbhajmi manas vacasmagamya

vco vibhnti nikhil yadanugrahea |
ya neti neti vacanairnigam avocu
ta devadevamajamacyutamhuragryam ||2||

At dawn, I worship the Atman, which cannot be described by words and conceptualized by the mind.
10
Yet all words shine (become meaningful) by the grace of Atman. The Vedas point out at the Atman
repeatedly using the words `not this', `not this' (negation of all superimpositions). That Atman is God
of gods, It is birth-less. The realized people say that It is the origin of creation and It never slips
down (to the level of the unreal appearance of the creation).
prtarnammi tamasa paramarkavara

pra santanapada puruottamkhyam |
yasminnida jagadaeamaeamrtau
rajjv bhujagama iva pratibhsita vai ||3||

Early in the morning I prostrate unto the timeless abode well known (in the scriptures) as the
Supreme Purusha. That infinite Supreme reality shines like the sun and transcends the darkness (of
ignorance). It alone is manifest as all. This entire universe appears on the substratum of that Reality
like a serpent appearing on the rope.
*****
3.
(guruparampar
smaraam)

naryaa padmabhuva vaia akti ca tatputra parara ca

vysa uka gauapada mahnta govinda yogndramathsya iyam |
r akarcryamathsya padmapda ca hastmalaka ca iyam
ta toaka vrthikakra anynasmad gurn santatamnatosmi ||
I always offer my salutations to the Guru lineage of Lord Narayana, Lord Brahma, Vashishta, Shakti
Maharsi, Parashara, Vyasa, Shuka, Gaudapada, Govinda Bhagavatpada, Adi Shankara and his
disciples Padmapada, Hastamalaka, Totaka & Sureshwaracharya (Varthikakara the one who has
written explanatory notes on Adi Shankaras commentary on Vedanta) and all other Gurus in the
tradition.

11
sadiva samrambh akarcrya

madhyamm |
asmadcrya paryant vande guru
paramparm ||
Obeissance unto the Guru lineage, begning from Lord Sri Sadashiva upto the present Acharya with
Adi Shankara in middle.
ruti smti purn laya karulayam

|
nammi bhagavatpda akara loka
akaram ||
Salutations to Shankara Bhagavatpada, the abode of Vedas (Shruti), Smruti (Shastras like Manu
Smruti, Bhagavadgita etc.) & Puranas. The abode of compassion, who bestows auspiciousness to the
world.
akara akarcrya keava

bdaryaam |
stra bhya ktau vande bhagavantau
puna puna ||
My repeated salutations to Sri Veda VyAsa, the author of the Brahma sutras, who is none other than
Lord Vishnu and Sri Adi Shankara, the commentator on those sutras, who is none other than Lord
Shiva.
apra karu sindhu jnadam

ntarpiam |
r candraekara guru praammi
mudnvaham ||
I repeatedly offer my prostrations to Guru Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati (Mahaswami of

Kanchi), (who is) the ocean of mercy, full of knowledge, always calm and ever blissful.
sadtmadhynanirata viayebhya
parmukham |
naumi streu nita
candraekarabhratm ||
My salutations to Sri Chandrashekara Bharati (Mahaswami of Sringeri), (who is) ever engrossed in
the meditation on the Self, aversive to worldly matters and well versed in the Shastras.
vivekina mahpraja
dhairyaudryakamnidhim |
sadbhinavaprva ta vidytrthaguru
bhaje ||
12
I worship my Guru Sri Abhinava Vidya Tirtha (Mahaswami of Sringeri), (who is) endowed with
discrimination, great perception and a repository of courage, forgiveness and generosity.
bhrat karuptra bhrat

padabhaam |
bhrat padamrha bhrat
trthamraye ||
I take refuge on Sri Bharati Tirtha (Mahaswami of Sringeri), (who has) abounding grace of Sharada
Parameshwari (Bharati) and his Guru Sri Abhinava Vidyatirtha Bharati Mahaswami, adorned the
title Bharatiand has ascended the Bharati Peetam (Sringeri Sharda Peetam).
(*Note the contextual meaning of the word Bharati so beautifully used in the above verse).
*****
Meaning of GURU
gukrastvandhakro vai
rukrastannivartaka |
andhakranirodhitvd gururitya bhidhyate
||
The letter GU stands for darkness (of ignorance), and RU represents its destruction. A guru is
so called because he destroys the darkness (of ignorance).
*****
13
GANESHA STOTRAS
4. (r
sankaanana gaea stotram)

praamya iras deva gaurputra

vinyakam |
bhaktavsa smarenitya yu
kmrthasiddhaye ||1||
Offer obeissance and worship daily Vinayaka - the divine son of Gauri, the refuge of his devotees, for
the attainment of longevity, desires and wealth.
prathama vakratua ca ekadanta

dvityakam |
ttya kapigka gajavaktra
caturthakam ||2||
First, as the one with the twisted trunk; Second, as the one with the single tusk. Third, as the one with
dark brown eyes; Fourth, as the one with the elephants mouth.
lambodaram pacama ca aa
vikaameva ca |
saptama vighnarjendra dhmravara
tathamam ||3||
Fifth, as the one with the belly like a pot; Sixth, as the grotesque one. Seventh, as the Lord over
obstacles; Eighth, as the smoke-colored one.
navama phlacandra ca daama tu

vinyakam | ekdaa gaapati
dvdaa tu gajnanam ||4||
Ninth, as the one with crescent moon on the forehead; Tenth, as the supreme hero. Eleventh, as the
Lord of all, Twelfth, as the elephant-faced one.
dvdaaitni nmani trisandhya ya

pahennara |
na ca vighnabhaya tasya sarvasiddhikara
prabhu ||5||
For the one who repeats these twelve names at dawn, noon and sunset, there is no fear of obstacles,
and he accomplishes everything.
14
vidyrth labhate vidy dhanrth labhate

dhanam |
putrrth labhate putrnmokrth labhate
gatim ||6||
He who desires wisdom, obtains wisdom; he who desires wealth, obtains wealth. He who desires
sons, obtains sons; he who desires liberation attains Moksham.
japedgaapatistotra abhirmsai phala

labhet |
savatsarea siddhi ca labhate ntra
saaya ||7||
Whoever chants this hymn on Ganapati for six months gets all desired fruits and in one year he
attains perfection, there is no doubt about this.
aebhyo brhmaebhyaca likhitv ya

samarpayet |
tasya vidy bhavetsarv gaeasya
prasdata ||8||
One who gets this prayer written by eight Brahmanas and offers it to Lord Ganesha, will become
knowledgeable and would be blessed with all stellar qualities, by the grace of Lord Ganesha.

|| iti r nradapure sankaanana gaeastotra sampram ||
Thus ends the prayer from Narada Purana to Lord Ganesha which would destroy all sorrows.
*****
vighnevara oaanmastotram)
5. (r

sumukhascaikadantasca kapilo
gajakaraka |
lambodaraca vikao vighnarjo gadhipa
||1||
Lord Ganesha is, pleasant faced, with one tusk, reddish black in color, has elephant ears, has pot like
belly, dreadful to his enemies and remover of all obstacles.
15
dhmraketurgadhyako phlacandro
gajnana |
vakratua rpakaro
herambasskandaprvaja ||2||
Lord Ganesha is smoke colored, is the leader of the Ganas, has crescent moon in his forehead, walks
like an elephant, has twisted trunk, has very broad ears, is Parvatis beloved son, is elder to Lord
Subrahmanya.
oaaitni nmani ya pahet ruuydapi|

vidyrambhe vivhe ca pravse nirgame
tath |
sagrme sarvakryeu vighnastasya na
jyate ||
One who reads, hears or remembers these sixteen names, during the commencement of education,
during the marriage ceremony, during the commencement or return from a journey, during war or
for that matter before commencement of any work will not face any difficulties and will be victorious.
*****
6. (a
vimocana gaea stotram)
-

dhynam sindhravara dvibhujam gaea labhodhara padmadale niviam |
brahmdi devai pari sevyamna siddhairayuta ta praammi devam ||
I salute that God Ganesha, who is deep red in color, who has two hands, who has a big paunch, who
sits on a petal of lotus flower, who is served by Lord Brahma & other devas and who is saluted by the
most eminent sages.
sydau brahma samyak pjito phala

siddhaye |
sadaiva prvat putra ana karotu me
16
||1||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, by worshipping whom Lord Brahma, got the power of creation,
destroy all my debts.
tripurasya vadht prva ambun

samyakrcita |
||2||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, who was worshipped by Lord Shiva, before destruction of Tripuras,
hirayakayapdn vadhrthe
viunrcita |
||3||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, who was worshipped by Lord Vishnu, for the sake of killing
Hiranyakashipu, destroy all my debts.
mahiasya vadhe devy gaantha

prapjita |
||4||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, who was worshipped by Devi, for killing Mahishasura, destroy all my
debts.
trakasya vadht prva kumrea

prapjita |
||5||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, who was worshipped by Subramanya, for killing Taarakasura,
bhskarea gaeohi pjita caiva siddhaye

|
||6||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, who was worshipped by Sun God, to get his lustre back, destroy all
my debts.
17
ain knti vddhyarttam pjito

gaanyaka |
||7||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, who was worshipped by moon, to increase his brightness, destroy all
my debts.
planya ca tapas vivmitrea pjita |

||8||
Let the son of Goddess Parvati, who was worshipped by Vishvamitra, for protecting his penance,
ida ahara stotra tvra dridrya

nana |
ekavra pahennitya varameka
samhita ||9||
The one who chants this stotram which removes all debts and destroys extreme poverty once
everyday for one year, becomes complete in all sense.
*****
Other Ganesha Stotra
mahgaeapacaratnastotram) * Page 452

7. (r
in MPB
*****
18
GURU STOTRAS
8. (guru gta) selected verses

brahmnanda paramasukhada kevala

jnamrtim
dvandvtta gaganasada

tattvamasydilakyam |
eka nitya vimalamacala

sarvadhskibhtam
triguarahita sadguru

bhvtta
tamnammi ||111||
My salutations to the Enlightened Guru - the embodiment of the Bliss of Brahman, the giver of
Supreme Happiness, the ever Free, the personification of Wisdom, the one beyond all dualities,
Infinite as the sky, Indicated by scriptural expressions as Tat Twam Asi (Thou Art That); the One,
eternally Pure, Immovable, the Witness beyond the Intellect of every one; beyond all manifestations;
free from all attributes .

&
yasynta ndimadhya na hi
karacaraa nmagotra na
stram |
no jtirnaiva varo na bhavati
puruo no napusa na ca str ||
nkra no vikra na hi
janimaraa nsti puya na
ppam |
no'tattva tattvameka
sahajasamarasa sadguru ta
nammi ||324|| & || 325||
I prostrate before that Sadguru, who has no beginning, no middle, no end, no hands, no feet, no
caste, no color, who is neither male nor female nor transgender, who has no form, no changes, no
birth, no death, no virtue, no vice, no element of creation, who is the Truth and who is the natural
homogenous essence.
*****
19
gurustotram)
9.
(r

akhaamaalkra vypta yena

carcaram|
tatpada darita yena tasmai rgurave
nama ||1||
Salutations are to that guru who showed me the abode, the one who is to be known, whose form is the
entire universe and by whom all the movable and immovable are pervaded.
ajnatimirndhasya jnjanaalkay |
cakurunmlita yena tasmai rgurave
nama ||2||
Salutations are to that guru who opened the eyes of the one who was blind due to the darkness
(cover) of ignorance with a needle coated with the ointment of knowledge.
gururbrahm gururviu gururdevo

mahevara |
gurureva para brahma tasmai rgurave nama
Guru, the enlightened spiritual teacher, is Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the protector; and
Maheshwara, the destroyer. The guru is verily the Supreme Brahman. Salutations to that guru.
sthvara jagama vypta

yatkicitsacarcaram |
nama ||4||
Salutations to that guru who showed me (by teaching) the one to be known, who permeates whatever
is movable, immovable, sentient or insentient.
cinmaya vypi yatsarva trailokya

sacarcaram |
nama || 5||
Salutations to that guru who showed me (by teaching) the one to be known, who is but awareness and
who is the pervader of all three worlds comprising the sentient and insentient.
sarvarutiiroratnavirjitapadmbuja |
20
vedntmbujasryo ya tasmai rgurave

nama || 6||
Salutations are to that guru who is like the Sun to the lotus flower of Vedanta and whose lotus feet
are made radiant by the jewel of all shrutis (Upanishads).
caitanyavatanta vyomtto
nirajana |
bindundakaltta tasmai rgurave nama
|| 7||
Salutations are to that guru who is awareness, changeless (beyond time), who is peace, beyond
space, pure (free from likes and dislikes), and who is beyond the manifest and the unmanifest .
jnaaktisamrha tattvamlvibhita |
bhuktimuktipradt ca tasmai rgurave nama
|| 8||
Salutations are to that guru who is rooted in knowledge that is power, adorned with the garland of
truth and who is the bestower of the joy of liberation.
anekajanmasamprptakarmabandhavidhine |
tmajnapradnena tasmai rgurave nama
||9||
Salutations are to that guru who by bestowing the knowledge of the Self burns up the bondage
created by accumulated actions of innumerable births.
oaa bhavasindhoca jpana

srasampada |
guro pdodaka samyak tasmai
rgurave nama ||10||
Salutations are to that guru; the perennial flow of wisdom from the one rooted in the vision of the
shruti, who dries up totally to ocean of transmigration (samsara) and reveals the essence of all
wealth (the freedom of want).
na guroradhika tattva na
guroradhika tapa |
tattvajnt para nsti tasmai rgurave
nama ||11||
There is nothing superior to knowledge of Truth, nothing higher than the Truth, and there is no
purifying austerity better than the Truth; salutations to that guru.
21
manntha rjaganntha madguru

rjagadguru |
madtm sarvabhttm tasmai rgurave
nama ||12||
Prostrations to that guru who is the Lord of the Universe, my Teacher, who is the Teacher of the
Universe, who is the Self in me, and the Self in all Beings.
gururdirandica guru
paramadaivatam |
guro paratara nsti tasmai rgurave
nama ||13||
Salutations are to that guru who is the beginning and the beginning-less, who is the highest Deity and
to whom there is none superior.

tvameva mt ca pit tvameva | tvameva bandhuca sakh tvameva |
tvameva vidy dravia tvameva | tvameva sarva mama devadeva || 14||
O God of all Gods, you alone are my mother, father, kinsman, friend, the knowledge and wealth. You
are everything to me.
*****
10.
(gurupdukastotram)
by Shankaracharya
anantasasra samudratra naukyitbhy gurubhaktidbhym |

vairgyasmrjyadapjanbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym ||1 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which serve as the boat to cross the
endless ocean of Samsaara, which endow me with devotion to my Guru, and which grace with the
valuable dominion of renunciation.
22
kavitvavrinikarbhy daurbhgyadvbudamlikbhym |
driktnamravipattitbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym ||2||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which are like a full moon in the
ocean of knowledge, which serve as the downpour of water to put out the fire of misfortunes, which
removes the various distresses of those who prostrate before them.

nat yayo rpatit samyu kadcidapyu daridravary |
mkca vcaspatit hi tbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym || 3 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which make those who prostrate
before it quickly overcome poverty & become possessors of great wealth, which turns even mute ones
to eloquent orators.

nlkankapadhtbhy nnvimohdi nivrikbhym |
namajjanbhatatipradbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym || 4 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which attracts us to lotus like feet of
our Guru, which cures us of the ignorant desires and which fulfill in plenty the desires of those who
bow to them.

nplimaulivrajaratnakntisaridvirjajjhaakanyakbhym |
npatvadbhy natalokapakate namo nama rgurupdukbhym || 5 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which shine like the precious stones
that adorn the crown kings. They stand out like a beautiful damsel in a river infested with crocodiles,
and which raises the devotees to the state of soverign emperors.
23

ppndhakrrka paramparbhy tpatrayhndrakhagevarbhym |
jybdhisasoaavavbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym || 6 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which serve as the Sun smashing the
darkness of sins, which are like an eagle for the snake-like three fold sufferings of Samsara and
which are like the terrific fire that dries away the ocean of ignorance.
(* Tapatrya three fold sufferings: Adibhautika - sufferings inflicted by other beings, Adhyatmika - sufferings
caused by one's body and mind, Adidaivika Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods).

amdiakapradavaibhavbhy samdhidnavratadkitbhym |
ramdhavnghristhirabhaktidbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym || 7 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which endows us with the glorious
six fold virtues beginning with Shama, which have as though taken a vow to bless the devotees to go
into the state of Samadhi and which blesses the devotees with permanent devotion to the feet of Lord
Vishnu the all-pervasive Lord.
(*Shad-Sampat six fold virtues: Shama mastery of mind, Dhama control of sense organs, Uparama
strict observance of ones own duty, Titiksha power of endurance, Shraddha intense faith in the words of
Guru and scriptures, Samadhanam fixing the mind on Brahman or the Self).

svrcparmakhileadbhy svhsahykadhurandharbhym |
svntcchabhvapradapjanbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym || 8 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which bestows all desires of the
devoted disciples who are ever involved and dedicated to service (of the Guru) and which awakens
the aspirants to the state of Self-Realization.
24

kmdisarpavrajagrubhy vivekavairgyanidhipradbhym |
bodhapradbhy drutamokadbhy namo nama rgurupdukbhym || 9 ||
Repeated salutations to the holy sandals of my reverential Guru, which are like an eagle for the
serpent like desires, which blesses one with the valuable treasure of discrimination & renunciation,
which enlightens the aspirant with true knowledge and blesses with instant Moksham.
(*Sadhana Chatushtayam four disciplines: Viveka - discrimination between the real and the unreal,
Vairagya - detachment or dispassion from sense objects, Shad-Sampat the six fold virtues, Mumukshutva intense desire for Moksham).
*****
11.
(toakakam)
by Sri Totakacharya
Note: Totakacarya, one of the direct disciples of Adi Shankara has composed this octet in praise of
his Guru. The metre (Chhandas) used in this composition is the difficult, but beautiful Totaka. Hence
he was himself given the name Totakacharya. Every word of this exquisite hymn speaks the utter
devotion of Totaka to Shankara. We need to ponder if we at least have even a fraction of such true
devotion.

viditkhilastrasudhjaladhe mahitopaniat kathitrthanidhe |
hdaye kalaye vimala caraa bhava akara deika me araam ||1||
O knower of the nectar-ocean of the scriptures, the expounder of the knowledge of the great
Upanishadic treasure! I meditate on your pure lotus feet in my heart. O Preceptor Shankara, be my
refuge.

karuvarulaya playa m bhavasgaradukhavidnahdam |
racaykhiladaranatattvavida bhava akara deika me araam ||2||
25
Save me whose heart is afflicted by the misery of the ocean of births, O (You who are) the ocean of
compassion! (By your grace) make me the knower of the truths of all the systems of philosophy. O
Preceptor Shankara, be my refuge.

bhavat janat suhit bhavit nijabodhavicraa crumate |
kalayevarajvavivekavida bhava akara deika me araam ||3||
Persons, whose intellect is adept in the inquiry of Self-knowledge, have found happiness due to you
(because of your clear teaching). Make me understand the knowledge of Iswara and the Jiva. O

bhava eva bhavniti me nitar samajyata cetasi kautukit |
mama vraya mohamahjaladhi bhava akara deika me araa ||4||
You are Lord Shiva Himself. Knowing this my mind is filled with an abundance of joy. Put an end to
my sea of delusion. O Preceptor Shankara, be my refuge.

sukte'dhikte bahudh bhavato bhavit samadaranallasat |
atidnamima pariplaya m bhava akara deika me araam ||5||
Only after numerous virtuous deeds have been performed in many ways, does a keen desire for the
experience of Brahman arise. Protect me (who am) extremely helpless. O Preceptor Shankara, be my
refuge.

jagatmavitu kalitktayo vicaranti mahmahasachalata |
ahimurivtra vibhsi guro bhava akara deika me araam ||6||
26
For the sake of saving the world, great ones wander assuming various forms and guises. O Guru,
You shine like the sun (among them).O Preceptor Shankara, be my refuge.

gurupugava pugavaketana te samatmayat nahi ko'pi sudh |
aragatavatsala tattvanidhe bhava akara deika me araam ||7||
O best among the Gurus! The Lord whose flag bears the emblem of the bull! You have no equal
among the wise. You who are affectionate to those who seek refuge! The treasure of truth! O

vidit na may viadaikakal na ca kicana kcanamasti guro |
drutameva vidhehi kp sahaj bhava akara deika me araam ||8||
I have neither understood even one branch of knowledge clearly, nor do I possess any wealth, O
Guru quickly bestow on me the compassion which is natural to you. O preceptor Shankara, be my
refuge.
*****

- Bhagavad Gita (6.30)
yo m payati sarvatra sarva ca mayi

paati |
tasyha na praaymi sa ca me na
praayati ||
For one who sees Me everywhere and sees everything in Me, I am never lost, nor is he ever lost to
Me.
*****
27
12.
(manpacakam)
by Adi Shankara
-

caa uvca
annamaydannamayamathav caitanyameva caitanyt |
yativara drikartu vchasi ki brhi gaccha gacchaeti ||
Chandala said - O best among the ascetics! By uttering Move Away Move Away do you wish to
move this body made of food from another body made of food or do you mean to move Consciousness
from Consciousness. Do tell me.
pratyagvastuni nistaragasahajnandvabhodhmbudhau
vipro'ya vapaco'yamityapi mahnko'ya vibhedhabhrama |
ki gagmbuni bimbite'mbaramaau cavthpaya
pre v'antaramasti kcanaghamtkumbhayorvmbare ||
In the ripple-less (changeless), naturally blissful ocean of the Self how can there be this great
delusory distinction that one is a Brahmana and one is a dog-eater? Is there any difference in the
jewel of the sky (Sun) when it is reflected in the waters of Ganges or in a ditch in the way side of a
slum? Is there any difference in the space as such, be in a golden pot or in a mud pot?

28

crya uvca jgratsvapnasuuptiu sphuatar y savidujjmbhate
y brahmdipiplikntatanuu prot jagatski |
saivha na ca dyavastviti dhaprajpi yasysti cet
clo'stu sa tu dvijo'stu gururitye man mama ||1||
Acharya said - He who has realised that he is not the seen, but that he is the one Consciousness that
illumines all experiences during the waking, dream and deep - sleep states, the one Consciousness
that is the sole witness of the entire play of the universe, the one Consciousness which is the very Life
Spark in all forms from the Creator (Brahma) down to the ant, he alone is my Guru, be he a sweeper,
be he a Brahmana, this indeed is my deep conviction.

brahmaivhamida jagacca sakala cinmtravistrita
sarva caitadavidyay triguay'ea may kalpitam |
ittha yasya dh mati sukhatare nitye pare nirmale
clo'stu sa tu dvijo'stu gururitye man mama ||2||
He who, in his direct experience of the Immaculate Supreme - Bliss - Eternal, has come to the firm
understanding that the entire universe is but an extensive play of Pure Consciousness, all projected
by his 'ignorance' expressed in the three moods of his mind, while he himself is but that Brahman - he
alone is my Guru, be he a sweeper, be he a Brahmana, this indeed is my deep conviction.

avannavarameva vivamakhila nicitya vc guro
nitya brahma nirantara vimat nirvyjanttman |
bhta bhti ca dukta pradahat savinmaye pvake
29
prrabdhya samarpita svavapuritye man mama ||3||

He who has done long reflections upon his Gurus words that this world of change is permanently in a
state of flux; he who has tamed his mind to a true state of quiet and poise; he who has brought his
mind, devoid of all dissimilar thoughts, constantly to contemplate upon Brahman; he who has burnt
up all his past and future residual-vaasanas in the fire of Pure Consciousness; he who has offered his
body to live through and exhaust its present destiny he alone is my Guru, be he a sweeper, be he a
Brahmana, this indeed is my deep conviction.
y tiryanaradevatbhirahamityanta sphu ghyate

yadbhs hdaykadehaviay bhnti svato'cetan |
t bhsyai pihitrkamaalanibh sphrti sad bhvayan
yog nirvtamnaso hi gururitye man mama ||4||
A yogi with his hushed mind lives, meditating upon That, which expresses as 'I--I' the subjective
individuality in all creatures: plants, animals (tiryak horizontally growing), humans and Gods;
That, by whose light, mind, senses and body are all enlivened to activity, even though they are all
made up of inert and insentient matter; That, which illumines everything as Sun from behind a bank
of clouds - he alone is my Guru, this is my firm conviction.

yatsaukhymbudhilealeata ime akrdayo nirvt
yaccitte nitar prantakalane labdhv munirnirvta |
yasminnityasukhmbudhau galitadhrbrahmaiva na brahmavid
ya kacitssurendravanditapado nna man mama ||5||
During its moments of utter quietude, a yogi's mind gains that Ocean of Bliss, a tiny droplet from
which is sufficient to make Indra and others feel contented and happy. Such a one who has dissolved
his individual intellect in this Eternal Ocean of Bliss, is verily Brahman, not a mere Knower of
30
Brahman - That rare one, whose feet are worshipped even by the very King of Gods indeed, he alone
is my Guru, this is my firm conviction.
*****

Kathopanishad (2.23)
nyamtm pravacanena labhyo na medhay na bahun rutena |

yamevaia vute tena labhya tasyaia tm viv
svm ||
This Atman cannot be attained by study of the Vedas, nor by intelligence, or by much hearing. He
whom the Self chooses, by him the Self can be gained. To him this Atman reveals Its true nature.
nvirato ducaritnnnto nsamhita |

nntamnaso vpi
prajnenainampnuyt ||
Kathopanishad (2.24)
But he who has not turned away from bad conduct, whose senses are not subdued, whose mind is not
concentrated, whose mind is not pacified, can never obtain this Atman by Knowledge.
Shvetashvatara Upanishad (6.23)
yasya deve par bhakti yath deve tath

gurau |
tasyaite kathit hyarth prakante
mahtmana ||
These truths, when taught, shine forth only in that high-souled one who has supreme devotion to God
and an equal degree of devotion to the spiritual teacher.
*****
31
DEVI STOTRAS
y dev styate nitya vibudhairvedapragai

|
s me vasatu jihvgre brahmarp sarasvat ||
Sarasvati, the Goddes of Knowledge, who is praised by the wise who have mastered the Sastra, who
is the wife of the creator (Brahma), may she live on the tip of my tongue.
y raddh dhra medh vgdev

vidhivallabh |
bhaktajihvgrasadan amdi gua dyin ||
(O Sarasvati) you are (the embodiment of) Shraddha, grasping power & wisdom, you are goddess of
speech and consort of Brahma. The one residing at the tongue-tip of devotees and the giver of inner
strengths like control, restraint, calmness, non-violence.

ml sudhkumbha vibodhamudr vidyvirjatkaravrijtm |
aprakruyasudhmburi r radmb praatosmi nityam ||
I always prostrate to Sri Sharadamba, nectar ocean of extreme mercy, who holds in her hand the
Japa maala, pot of nectar (Amritam), taintless Vedic scriptures and shows the sign of spiritual
awakening (Vibodha Mudra).
13.
(lalitpacakam) by Adi Shankara

prta smarmi lalitvadanravinda bimbdhara pthulamauktikaobhinsam |
karadrghanayana maikualhya mandasmita mgamadojjvalaphladeam ||
I meditate in the morning, on the lotus face of Lalitha, who has deep red lips, who has nose shining
like a pearl, who has very long eyes which extend to the ears, who has ear drops made of very
precious gems, who has a very pleasant smile and a very pretty shining forehead.

prtarbhajmi lalitbhujakalpavall ratnguyalasadagulipallavhym |
mikyahemavalaygadaobhamn purekucpakusumeusdadhnm ||2||
At dawn I sing in praise of Lalitha whose arms are like the creeper, who wears shining gem studded rings,
who wears golden bangles studded with precious stones, who holds a bow of flowers, and who has the goad in
her hands.

prtarnammi lalitcararavinda bhakteadnanirata bhavasindhupotam |
padmsandisuranyakapjanya padmkuadhvajasudaranalchanhyam || 3||
I prostrate in the morning to Lalitha, whose lotus like feet blesses her devotees with all their wishes- which is a
boat that helps cross the ocean of Samsara, and which are worshipped by Brahma & other devas and who
(Lalitha) holds the lotus, flag with the goad emblem and the wheel in her hands.

prta stuve paraiv lalit bhavn trayyantavedyavibhav karunavadym |
vivasya sivilayasthitihetubht vivevar nigamavgamanastidrm ||4||
33
I pray in the morning, that Lalitha who is the power behind Lord Shiva, who is the Goddess who
slays arrogance, who is described and known by Vedas and Upanishads, who is the pure and
auspicious form of mercy, who is the cause of - creation, maintenance and destruction, who is the
Empress of the universe, and who is beyond the reach of mind and who cannot be completely
described by the Vedas.

prtarvadmi lalite tava puyanma kmevarti kamaleti mahevarti |
rmbhavti jagat janan pareti vgdevateti vacas tripurevarti ||5||
I repeat in the morning the holy names of Lalitha, the Goddess who has subdued desires and passion,
who sits on the lotus flower, who is the greatest Goddess, the consort of Lord Shiva, the one who is
the mother of the world, the Goddess of words and language, and the one who is Tripureshvari.

ya lokapacakamida lalitmbiky saubhgyada sulalita pahati prabhte |
tasmai dadti lalit jhaiti prasann vidy riya vimalasaukhyamanantakrtim ||6||
He who reads these five stanzas in the morning extolling the mother Lalitha, who is easily pleased,
would get knowledge, riches, endless fame by the grace of Goddess Lalitha.
*****
14.
(radbhujagapraytakam)
by
Adi Shankara
suvakojakumbh sudhprakubh
prasdvalamb prapuyvalambm |
sadsyendubimb sadnohabimb
bhaje radmbmajasra madambm ||1||

Having pot like bosom which are pots full of nectar, prepared to shower her grace, she looks after
those who do good (to the world), and she has the form of ever glowing moon with reddish lips
34
resembling a cherry, I pray that mother Sharada who is forever my mother.
kake dayrdro kare jnamudr

kalbhirvinidr kalpai subhadrm |
purastr vinidr purastugabhadr

Brimming with mercy in her glance, showing symbol of wisdom in her hands, always awakened by
the art forms, always wearing ornaments, and who is the wakeful great lady and living in the shores
of auspicious river Tunga, I pray that mother Sharada who is forever my mother.
lalmkaphl lasadgnalol
svabhaktaikapl yaarkapolm |
kare tvakaml kanatpratnalol

Wearing ornaments in her forehead, becoming ecstatic in good music, looking after her devotees,
with two cheeks famous for their beauty, and having garland of beads in her hand and who has deep
liking for ornaments, and I pray that mother Sharada who is forever my mother.
susmantave d nirjitai
ramatkrav namadvajrapm |
sudhmantharsy mud cintyave

With braided hair parted at the middle showing hanging ornamental ornaments, with playing glances
of a deer and worshipped by the Devendra, with nectar like smiling face and hair that attracts our
mind, I pray that mother Sharada who is forever my mother.

35
sunt sudeh dgante kacnt

lasatsallatgmanantmacintym |
smarettpasai sagaprvasthit t

Very peaceful, with a pretty mien, with black hair with eyes like that of deer, with shining body like a
tender climber, the one who cannot be measured by mind, and who existed before the imaginative
world of great sages, I pray that mother Sharada who is forever my mother.
kurage turage mgendre khagendre

marle madebhe mahoke'dhirhm |
mahaty navamy sad smarp
bhaje radmbmajasra mmbm ||6||

She who rides on a deer, horse , lion and eagle, she who rides on the swan, the bull and the elephant,
during the nine holy days and has a very peaceful form, I pray that mother Sharada who is forever
my mother.
jvalatkntivahni jaganmohang
bhaje mnasmbhojasubhrntabhgm |
nijastotrasagtantyaprabhgm

She who is as pretty as raging fire, she whose prettiness attracts the world, she who moves around
the lotus like mind of her devotees like a bee, and she whose luster is increased by true prayer, song
and dance, I pray that mother Sharada who is forever my mother.
bhavmbhojanetrjasapjyamn
lasanmandahsaprabhvaktracihnm |
calaccacalcrtakakaro

She who is worshipped by Lord Vishnu, Shiva and Lord Brahma, she whose face is lighted by her
lustrous smile, and she whose prettiness is increased by the swinging ear pendants, I pray that
36
mother Sharada who is forever my mother.
*****
Other Devi Stotras
15.
lalit sahasranma stotram) *

(r
Page
557 in MPB
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
(mnkpacaratnam)
*
(mnkstotram) *
Page 500 in MPB
Page 502 in MPB
(annaprstotram)
*
Page 505 in MPB
(kanakadhrstotram)
*
Page 514 in MPB
(mahlakmyaakam) * Page 517
in MPB
*****

satya mt pit jana dharmo bhrt day sakh |
nti patn kam putra aete mama bndhav ||
Truth is my mother and knowledge is my father, religious conduct is my brother and mercy
is my friend, peace is my wife and forgiveness is my son - these six are my relatives.
*****
37
VISHNU STOTRAS
kya vsudevya devak nandanya ca |

nandagopa kumrya govindya namo
nama ||
-
Kunti Devi (Srimad Bhagavatam)
Repeated salutations to Krishna, the son of Vasudeva, the (source of) joy for Devaki, the son of the
cowherd (chief) Nanda, the Lord who pervades all the worlds.
Requesting the Lord to remove all our afflictions!
asmin partman nanu pdmakalpe

tvamitthamutthpita padmayoni |
anantabhm mama rogarim
nirundhi vtlavsa vio ||
-
Narayaneeyam: Canto 8, verse 13
O Lord Vishnu enshrined in Guruvayoor! O Paramatma! O Lord of eternal glory, who thus
awakened Brahma in Paadmakalpa, may Thou remove all my afflictions.
21.
kakam)
(r
vasudevasuta deva
kasacramardanam
devakparamnanda ka vade
jagadgurum ||1||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who is the son of Vasudeva, who killed Kamsa and Chanura, and
is the source of great joy to Devaki.
ataspupasakam hranpuraobhitam
ratnakakaakeyra ka vade
jagadgurum ||2||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who is surrounded by hemp flowers, who shines in necklaces and
anklets, and who wears gem studded bangles and armlets.
kuillakasayukta
pracadranibhnanam
vilasatkualadhara deva ka

vade jagadgurum ||3||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who is with curly locks of hair, who resembles the full moon, and
who shines in his ear studs.
madragandhasayukta cruhsa
caturbhujam
barhipichvacga ka vade
jagadgurum ||4||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who is with the smell of Mandhara flowers, who has a pretty
smile and four hands, and who wears the feather of peacock.
utphullapadmapatrka
nlajmtasannibham
ydavn iroratna ka vade
jagadgurum ||5||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who has eyes like fully opened petals of lotus, whose body color
resembles the rich blue cloud, and is the greatest gem among Yadavas.
39
rukmikeisayukta
ptbarasuobhitam
avptatulasgandha ka vade
jagadgurum ||6||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who is with the playful Rukmini, who shines in yellow silks, and
who has the scent of holy basil.
gopikn kucadvandva
kukumkitavakasam
r niketa mahevsa ka vade
jagadgurum ||7||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who is coated with saffron powder of the gopis bosom, and who is
the home of Lakshmi, and in whom the great God lives.
rvatska mahoraska
vanamlvirjitam
akhacakradhara deva ka vade
jagadgurum ||8||
I salute the world teacher Krishna, who has Srivatsa mark on his chest, who is decorated by forest
garland, and is the Lord who holds conch and wheel.
kakamida puya prtarutthya

ya pahet |
koijanmakta ppa smaraena
vinayati ||
If this blessed octet on Krishna, is sung as soon as one wakes up in the morning, The sins done in
millions of births will truly be destroyed.
*****

varrpita na icchay kta |

cittaodaka muktisdhakam ||
Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi
Actions performed as an offering unto Ishwara and without the desire for its
fruit will purify the mind and thereby lead to Moksha.
*****
40
22.
raganthakam) - by Adi Shankara

(r

nandarpe nijabodharpe brahmasvarpe rutimrtirpe |
akarpe ramayarpe rragarpe ramat mano me ||1||
Let my mind revel in the form of Ranga, whose form is the epitome of happiness, whose form is the
true knowledge, whose form is as told in the Vedas and who is of the form of the comforting moon
and very beautiful.

kveritre karu vilole mandramle dhta crukele |
daityntakle'khilalokalle rragalle ramat mano me ||2||
Let my mind revel in the form of Ranga, who is on the banks of river Kaveri, who playfully dispenses
mercy, who is below the Mandhara tree, who speedily destroys all Asuras, who spreads his Leelas all
over the whole world.

lakmnivse jagat nivse htpadmavse ravibimbavse |
kpnivse guavndavse rragavse ramat mano me ||3||
Let my mind revel in Ranga, as the one who lives in Sri Rangam, in whom goddess Lakshmi lives,
who is the abode of the universe, who lives in the lotus of our heart, who lives Suns orb. who is the
abode of mercy and who lives where people with good conduct live.

brahmdivandye jagadekavandye mukundavandye suranthavandye |
vysdivandye sanakdivandye rragavandye ramat mano me ||4||
41
In Him let my mind revel as the one who is worshipped in Sri Ranga, who is venerated by gods like
Brahma, who is venerated by the entire universe, who is venerated by Mukunda, who is venerated by
Lord of devas (Indra), who is worshipped by sages like Vyasa and who is venerated by sages like
Sanaka.

brahmadirje garudirje vaikuhaje surarjarje |
trailokyarje'khilalokarje rragarje ramat mano me ||5||
Let my mind revel in Him who is the king of Sri Ranga, who is the king of gods like Brahma, who is
the king of the holy bird Garuda, who is the king of Vaikunta, who is the king of Devendra, who is the
king of the three worlds and who is the king of the entire universe.

amoghamudre paripranidre ryoganidre ca samudranidre |
rtaikabhadre jagadekanidre rragabhadre ramat mano me ||6||
Let my mind revel in Him as one who protects the city of Sri Ranga, whose sign is never failing, who
is in perfect sleep, who is in the yogic sleep, who sleeps on the ocean, who takes care of goddess
Lakshmi, and in whom the whole world sleeps (He is the basis of the entire Universe).

sacitray bhujagendray nandkay kamalkay |
krbdhiy vaapatray rragay ramat mano me ||7||
Let my mind revel in Him as the one who sleeps in the city of Sri Ranga, who sleeps pretty as a
picture, who sleeps on the king of serpents, who sleeps on the lap of Nanda, who sleeps on the lap of
Lakshmi, who sleeps on the ocean of milk and who sleeps on the banyan leaf.

ida hi raga tyajatmihga punarnaga yadi gameti |
42
pau rathga caraembu gga yne vihaga ayane bhujagam ||8||

He who sheds his body in this holy land of Sri Ranga, remembering Ranganatha who wields a
Chakra in his hand, whose holy feet is wetted by the Ganga, has Garuda as his vehicle and the
serpent as his bed never gets his birth again.
raganthaka puya prtarutthya ya pahet |

sarvn kmanavpnoti ragisyujyampnuyt ||
Any one reading this octet on Lord Ranganatha, as soon as he gets up in the morning, will get his
wishes fulfilled and in the end attain Saayujya Moksham.
*****
23.
(rgovindakam)
- by Adi Shankara

satya jnamanata nityamanka paramkam
gohaprgaa rikhaalolamanysa paramysam |
mykalpitannkramankra bhuvankram
kmy nthamantha praamata govida paramnadam ||1||
Extol Govinda, who is the eternal bliss, who is the eternal truth, who is knowledge, who is eternal,
who is beyond the skies, who is the final limit, who roams in the courtyard of cowshed in Vraja, who
needs no effort, who is the final effort, who is assuming various forms in the form of Maya, who is
without form, who is the form of the universe, who is Lord (incarnated) on the earth, and who has no
Lord.

mtsnmatsheti yaodtanaaiava satrsam
vyaditavaktr lokitaloklokacaturdaaloklim |
lokatrayapuramlastabha loklokamanlokam
43
lokea paramea praamata govida paramnadam ||2||

Extol Govinda, who is the eternal bliss, who ran away with the fear of caning from Yasoda who said
thus Were You eating soil here?, who then showed the world, the world beyond and the swarm of
fourteen planes of existence in His open mouth (to His mother), who is the basis or pillar of the
existence of the three worlds, who is the light of the world, who needs no world to in, who is the Lord
of the world, and who is the supreme Lord.

traiviaparipuvraghna kitibhraghna bhavarogaghnam
kaivalya navanthramanhra bhuvanhram |
vaimalyasphuacetovttiviebhsamanbhsam
aiva kevalata praamata govida paramnadam ||3||
Extol Govinda, who is the eternal bliss, who destroys the strength of the enemies of demi-gods, who
destroys the weight present on the earth, who destroys the disease of metempsychosis, who is the only
one, who eats freshly prepared butter, who requires no food, who is the food of the universe, who is
observed in the special consciousness state of spotless blossomed mind, who cannot be (fully)
observed, who adores iva, and who is always at rest.

gopla prabhullvigrahagopla kulagoplam
gopkhelanagovardhanadhtillllitagoplam |
gobhirnigadita govidasphutanmna bahunmnam
gopgocarapathika praamata govida paramnadam ||4||
Extol Govinda, who is the eternal bliss, who is known as Gopala, who took the form of a cowherd for
the sake of sport, who incarnated in the lineage of a cowherds, who did spectacular sport by playing
with Gopis and lifting the Govardhana mountain, who was given a taintless name of Govinda by the
cows (Kamadhenu), who has many names, and who is beyond the scope of perception of the Gopis.

gopmaalagohibheda bhedvasthamabhedbham
avadgokhuranirdhtodghatadhldhsarasaubhgyam |
raddhbhaktightnadamacintya cititasadbhvam citmaimahimna
praamata govida paramnadam ||5||
44
Extol Govinda, who is the eternal bliss, who enters the meeting place of the group of Gopis, who is
present in each and every group of gopis, who appears, in differing forms but actually is without
difference. Whose pretty form is covered by the dust raised by the hooves of cows, who is realized by
attention and devotion in thought, who is beyond thought, And whose greatness is determined by the
gem of individuals thought.

snnavykulayoidvastramupdygamuprham
vyditsatratha digvastr dtumupkaratam t |
nirdhtadvayaokavimoha buddha buddheratastham
sattmtraarra praamata govida paramnadam ||6||
Extol Govinda, who is the eternal bliss, who sits on a tree having collected the clothes of the Vraja
maidens bathing in the river, who asked the Gopis to come closer to get the clothes back, who is
bereft of both unhappiness and passion, who is wise, who is situated inside the hearts of wise, and
whose body is mere consciousness.

kta kraakraamdimandi klamanbhsam
klidgatakliyairasi suntyatam muhurntyata |
kla klakaltta kalitea kalidoaghnam
klatrayagatihetu praamata govida paramnadam ||7||
Extol Govinda, who is the eternal bliss, who is resplendent, who is the cause behind causes,
primeval, who is without a beginning, who is the form of time, who is self-luminous, who at once
started dancing after entering the water of Klindi, who is death (personified), who is beyond the
play of death, who is formless, who destroys the malice of Kaliyuga, and who is the cause for the
existence of past, present and future.

vdvanabhuvi vdrakagaavndrdhya vade'ham
kudbhmalamadasmerasudhnada suhdnadam |
vadyeamahmunimnasavadynadapadadvadvam
vadyeagubdhi praamata govida paramnadam ||8||
45
I adore Govinda, who is prayed by the group of Vraja maidens in the territory of ndavana, who is
prayed by demi-gods and nda (a maiden), whose nectar like smile is as beautiful like a jasmine
flower, and who gives happiness to his friends. Whose twin-feet are worshipped by the heart of great
and worshipful sages, which is the abode of all good qualities and worshipped by all.

govidakametadadhte govidrpitacet yo
govidcyuta mdhava vio gokulanyaka keti |
govidghrisarojadhynasudhjaladhautasamastgho
govida paramnadmtam antastha sa tamabhyeti ||
He who dedicates his mind to Govinda by chanting the holy names, Govinda, Achyutha, Madhava,
Vishnu, Lord of Gokula and Krishna, and reads this octet on Govinda, will get drenched by the
nectar of meditation, gets rid of all his sins, reaches the blissful world of Govinda, and attain the
nectar like Supreme Bliss.
*****

- Bhagavad Gita (4.39)
tatpara
sayatendriya |
jna labdhv par
ntimaciredhigacchati ||
The person, who is full of faith, is diligent and has subdued the senses, obtains this Knowledge (SelfKnowledge). Having obtained Knowledge, one soon attains Supreme Peace.
Bhagavad Gita (4.40)
ajacraddadhnaca saaytm
vinayati |
nya loko'sti na paro na sukha
saytmana ||
The ignorant, the faithless, the doubting Self goes to destruction; there is neither this world, nor the
other, nor happiness for the doubter.
*****
46
24.
(madhuraka)
by Sri Vallabhacharya

adhara madhura vadana madhura nayana madhura hasita madhuram |
hdaya madhura gamana madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram ||1||
Krishna's lip, face, eye, smile, heart and gait are all sweet and nice. Everything about the Lord of
sweetness is sweet.

vacana madhura carita madhura vasana madhura valita madhuram |
calita madhura bhramita madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram ||2||
His words/utterances, character, dress, bodily form, gait and roaming about, are all sweet.
Everything about the lord of sweetness is sweet.

veurmadhuro reurmadhura pirmadhura pdau madhurau |
ntya madhura sakhya madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram ||3||
His flute (its notes), dust under his feet, hand, feet, dance and friendship /company are all sweet.
Everything about the lord of sweetness is sweet.

gta madhura pta madhura bhukta madhura supta madhuram |
rpa madhura tilaka madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram ||4||
His song, drinking act, eating act, sleeping pose, personality, and the mark on his forehead are all
sweet. Everything about the Lord of sweetness is sweet.
47

karaa madhura taraa madhura haraa madhura ramaa madhuram |
vamita madhura amita madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram ||5||
His action, swimming, stealing/ snatching, sport, mutterings and timid actions are all sweet.
Everything about the Lord of sweetness is sweet.

guj madhur ml madhur yamun madhur vc madhur |
salila madhura kamala madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram || 6||
His humming (melody or playing on the flute?), garland, the river Yamuna, its waves, water and the
lotus are all sweet. Everything about the Lord of sweetness is sweet.

gop madhur ll madhur yukta madhura mukta madhuram |
da madhura ia madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram ||7||
His cowherd girlfriends, their sport, company, separation, looking at them and their good behavior
are all sweet. Everything about the Lord of sweetness is sweet.

gop madhur gvo madhur yairmadhur sirmadhur |
dalita madhura phalita madhura madhurdhipaterakhila madhuram ||8||
The cowherd boyfriends, the cows, the forms he creates, his domination over all and the results
therefrom are all sweet. Everything about the Lord of sweetness is sweet.
*****
48
25.
(r
rma stotra)
rmyarmabhadryarmacandryavedhase
|
raghunthyanthyasty patayenama ||
Salutations unto Lord Rama who is auspiciousness, who is in the form of the shining light
(Consciousness present in all beings) who is the creator, who is the Lord of the Raghu clan, the Lord
of all beings and the husband of Sita.
*****
(tm rma loka) by Adi Shankara
26.
trtv mohrava hatv

rgadvedirkasn |
yog ntisamyukta tmrmo virjate ||
Atmabodha (verse 50)
After crossing the ocean of delusion and killing the monsters of likes and dislikes, the Yogi who is
united with peace dwells in the glory of his own realized Self as an Atmarama.
* The above Shloka is an allegory taken from the Ramayana. Atmarama signifies Lord Rama, ocean stands for
the watery expanse separating India and Sri Lanka, the monsters for Ravana and his followers and peace for
Sita, the consort of Rama.
*****
27.
(ekalok
rmyaam)

49
dau rmatapovandigamana
hatvmga kcana
vaidehharaa jayumaraa
sugrvasambhaam |
vlnigrahaa samudrataraa
lakpurdhana
pacdrvaakumbhakarahanana etad
rmyaam ||
Rama chased the deer, Sita was kidnapped, Jatayu was killed, there were talks with Sugreeva, Vali
was killed, the sea was crossed, Lanka was burnt and later Ravana and Kumbhakarna were also
killed. This in short is the story of Ramayanam.
*****
28.
(ekalok
mahbhratam)
dau pava dhrtarrajanana

lkghe dhana
dyte rharaa vane viharaa
matsylaye varthanam |
llgograhaa rae vitaraa
sandhikriyjmbhaa
bhmadroasuyodhandimathana
etanmahbhratam ||
Birth Pandavas and Kauravas, burning down of castle at Lakshagrah, loosing wife in the game of
gambling, exile into the forests (Vanavasa), living in anonymity in the Kingdom of Matsa (Virata)
(Agyathavasa), capturing the cows, Arjuna destroying the Kuru army, proposing the peace talks (by
Sri Krishna), failure to convince (the Kauravas) resulting in the deaths of Bheeshma, Dronacharya,
Duryodhana and Kuru dynasty. This is in short the story of Mahabharatam.
*****
29.
(ekalok
bhgavatam)
dau devak devi garbhajanana

gopgheplana
my ptanajvitpaharaa
govardhanoddhraam |
kasacchedana kauravdihanana
kuntsutplana
etadbhgavatapurakathita
rkallmtam ||
Born to queen Devaki, brought up by Gopis, killing of demon Pootana, lifting the Govardhana
mountain, beheading of Kamsa, destroying the Kouravas, taing care of the children of Kunti
(Pandavas). This is in short the ancient story of Bhagavatha which describes the nectar like play of
Lord Krishna.
*****
50
30.
(narasihamantram)
ugravra mahviujvalanta
sarvathomukha |
nsihabhaa bhadra
mtyumtyunammyaha ||
||
O Angry and brave Maha-Vishnu, your heat and fire permeate everywhere. O Lord Narasimha, you
are everywhere. You are the death of death and I surrender to You.
*****
31.
(rmantrarjapada stotram) from

Paancharaatra Agama
r vara uvca vttotphullavilka

vipakakayadkitam |
nindatrastaviva viumugra
nammyaham ||1||
Lord Shiva said - I bow down to the formidable Lord Vishnu, whose large round eyes are wildly open
and is ready to destroy the enemy. Simply by His roaring He makes the whole world filled with fear.
sarvairavadhyat prpta sabalaugha

dite sutam |
nakhgrai akalcakre yasta vra
nammyaham || 2||
I salute that valorous God, who cannot be approached or killed by any one, who tore with the tip of
his nail, the enemy of Indra, who is the son of Dithi along with a great army.
padvaabdhaptla
mrdhviatriviapam |
bhujapraviadia mahviu
nammyaham ||3||
I bow down to the great Lord Vishnu whose feet have seized Patalaloka the last of the seven worlds
under the earth. His head entered the heavenly planets and His arms entered the eight directions.
51
jyotyarkendunakatrajvalandnyanu
kramt |
jvalanti tejas yasya ta jvalanta
nammyaham ||4||
I bow down to the Lord whose sparkling splendor is the source of the bright light of the sun, of all the
planets, the moon, the stars and that of the fire.
sarvendriyairapi vin sarva sarvatra

sarvad |
yo jnti nammydya tamaha
sarvatomukham ||5||
I bow down to the primeval Lord who is unlimited and thereby also the knower of everything. He is
present everywhere at all times and He possesses no material senses.
naravat sihavaccaiva yasya rpa

mahtmana |
mahsaa mahdara ta
nsiha nammyaham || 6||
I bow down to the great Lord Nrisimha whose form resembles that of a man and that of a lion. He
has a big mane and large fangs.
yannmasmarad bht
bhtavetlarkas |
rogdyca praayanti bhaa ta
nammyaham ||7||
I bow down to the terrific Lord, by the remembrance of whose name all the Bhutas, Vetalas,
Rakshasas and all kinds of diseases become fearful and are immediately destroyed.
sarvo'pi ya samritya sakala

bhadramanute |
riy ca bhadray juo yasta bhadra
nammyaham ||8||
I bow down to the all auspicious Lord who is served by the auspicious goddess of fortune and by
taking shelter of whom everyone achieves all auspiciousness.
skt svakle saprpta mtyu

atruganvitam |
bhaktn nayed yastu mtyumtyu
nammyaham ||9||
52
I bow down to the Lord who is the death of death personified. He is the destroyer of death and the
hordes of enemies by appearing at the right time when His devotees are attacked.
namaskrtmaka yasmai
vidhy''tmanivedanam |
tyaktadukho'kiln kmn ananta ta
nammyaham ||10||
I bow down to the Lord unto Whom by surrendering and paying obeisance one becomes free from all
distresses and enjoys every desire he may have.
dsabht svata sarve hytmna

paramtmana |
ato'hamapi te dsa iti matv
nammyaham ||11||
O Lord, O Paramatma. I bow down to You and consider myself Your servant seeing everyone else has
voluntarily become Your servant.
phalaruti -
akaredart prokta padn

tattvanirayam |
trisandhya ya pahet tasya
rrvidy''yuca vardhate ||
Thus Lord Shankara has explained the real meaning of every word. One who recites this prayer three
times daily will increase his knowledge, duration of life and prosperity.
*****
Other Vishnu Stotra
32.
(viu
apad stotram) * Page 587 in MPB
*****
53
SHIVA STOTRAS
|
||
iva ivakara nta ivtmna

ivottama
ivamrga praethra praatosmi
sadiva
Salutations to Lord Sada Shiva who is ever peaceful, who lives in peace, who creates peace, who is
peace itself, who is the soul of peace, who is the pinnacle of peace and who shows the path of peace.
Requesting the Lord to permanently reside in our heart!
: :
mauau gag ankau

karacaraatale talg bhujag
vmebhge dayrdr himagiritanay
|
candana sarvagtre |
ittha ta prabhta tava
:
kanakasabhntha sou kva aktih
nirveda tapte yadi bhavati na te
|| cite
nitya vso madhye ||
- By Appayya Dikshitar
Adorning your head is the cold Ganga and cool moon, surrounding and entwining your arms and
legs are cold blooded snakes, on your left half of the body is the daughter of Himavan who is full of
embalming, cooling, soothing, kindness, your whole body is smeared with cool sandal paste. O
Kanakasabhanatha (Lord Nataraja) how can you afford to bear this deadly cold until unless you take
shelter and make my embroiling, Samsara-smitten heart as your constant abode.
* His Holiness Kanchi Mahaswami Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati has given a brilliant discourse on the
above Shloka. This is available at www.mahaperiyavaa.wordpress.com
33.
(r dakimrti hynalok)
maunavykhyprakaitaparabrahmatattva
yuvna
varihntevasadigaairvta
brahmanihai |
cryendra
karakalitacinmudramnamnandarpam
svtmrma muditavadana
dakimrtime ||1||
I worship that Lord Dakshinamurti, a young guru, imparting knowledge of Brahman through silence,
surrounded by rishis who are firmly established in wisdom, teacher of teachers, whose gesture
(Mudra) signifies wisdom, whose nature is fullness, who is reveling in Himself and ever blissful.
vaaviapisampe bhmibhge niaa

sakalamunijann jnadhtramrat |
tribhuvanaguruma dakimrtideva
jananamaraadukhacchedadaka
nammi ||2||

I bow to that Lord, seated on the ground under the banyan tree, bestowing knowledge to all the
Rishis who have assembled near Him, the teacher of the three worlds, destroyer of the miseries of
birth and death.
citra vaatarormle vddh iy

gururyuv |
gurostu mauna vykhyna iystu
chinna saay ||3||
Amazing! Under the banyan tree aged disciples sat around a youthful guru. He taught them in
silence, yet their doubts were dispelled.
55
nidhaye sarvavidyn bhiaje

bhavarogim |
gurave sarvalokn dakimrtaye
nama ||4||
Salutations to Lord Dakshinamurti, the abode of all wisdom, teacher of the whole world, healer of
those suffering from the disease of Samsara.
om nama praavrthya uddha

jnaikamrthaye |
nirmalya prantya dakimrtaye
nama ||5||
Salutations to Lord Dakshinamurti, who is the meaning of "Om", whose form is that of pure
knowledge, who is taintless and always calm.
*****
Contemplation on the Atman!

- Shatashloki verse 12 - by Adi Shankara
tmmbhodhestarago'smyahamiti gamane bhvayannsanastha

savitstrnuviddho mairahamiti vsmndriyrthaprattau |
d'smytmvalokditi ayanavidhau magna nandasindhau
antarniho mumuku sa khalu tanubht yo nayatyevamyu ||
That aspirant for Moksham who, when moving around in the world (engaged in activities) looks upon
himself as a wave in the ocean of Consciousness (Atman), when just sitting contemplates of himself
as a gem strung on the unbreakable thread of Consciousness (like pearls on a string), when
perceiving some external object, sees all objects as Atman alone and when sleeping considers himself
as immersed in the ocean of Bliss that is Atman and, spends his life in this manner is the one who is
established in the indwelling Self.
*His Holiness Sri Chandrashekara Bharathi (Mahaswami of Sringeri) while instructing His Holiness Sri
Abhinava Vidyateertha Mahaswami, has cited the above Shloka. The interesting incident and further
commentary on the above Shloka is available in the book Yoga, Enlightenment and Perfection (page: 100).
*****
56
34.
dakimrtistotram) by Adi Shankara

(r
Note: Dakshinamurthy Stotram is a Moksha Shastra, a scriptural teaching that can lead to
Moksham. It contains the profound teaching of Advaita Vedanta. There are many elaborate
commentaries on this work, starting with Manasollassa written by Sri Sureshwaracharya, one of
the direct disciples of Shankara.
viva darpaadyamnanagartulya
nijntargata
payanntmani myay
bahirivodbhta yath nidray |
ya sktkurute prabodhasamaye
svtmnamevdvaya
tasmai r gurumrtaye nama ida
rdakimrtaye ||1||
To Him who sees the universe like a dream existing within oneself or like a city seen in a mirror but
appearing externally due to Maya, Who upon enlightenment beholds the universe directly as his own
non-dual Self Salutations unto Him, Shri Dakshinamurti in the form of my own Guru.
bjasyntarivkuro jagadida
prnirvikalpa puna
mykalpitadeaklakalanvaicitryacitrk
tam |
myvva vijmbhayatyapi mahyogva
yasvecchay
rdakimrtaye ||2||
This universe, undifferentiated at first like a sprout within the seed, becoming manifold through
Maya's aspects of time and space, that universe He projects by His own desire like a magician or a
great yogi Salutations unto Him, Shri Dakshinamurti in the form of my own Guru.
yasyaiva sphuraa
sadtmakamasatkalprthaka bhsate
skttattvamasti vedavacas yo
bodhayatyritn |
yatsktkaradbhavennapunarvttirb
havmbhonidhau
rdakimrtaye ||3||
He by whose light the unreal universe appears real, who imparts immediate knowledge through the
57
Vedic teaching, That thou art to those who seek his refuge, because of whose direct knowledge one
never returns to the ocean of birth and death Salutations unto Him, Shri Dakshinamurti in the form
of my own Guru.
nncchidraghaodarasthitamahdpaprab
hbhsvara
jna yasya tu cakurdikaraadvr
bahispandate |
jnmti tameva
bhntamanubhtyetatsamasta jagat
rdakimrtaye ||4||
Whose knowledge is like the light of a shining lamp placed inside a pot with many holes, shining
forth through the sense organs like eye sight, Who shines as Consciousness - I know because of
which this entire creation appears Salutations unto Him, Shri Dakshinamurti in the form of my own
Guru.
deha pramapndriyyapi cal

buddhi ca nya vidu
strblndhajaopamstvahamiti bhrnt
bha vdina |
myaktivilsakalpitamahvymohasa
hrie
rdakimrtaye ||5||
Philosophers, who are misguided, childish, blind, or dull, always teach falsely that the body, life,
senses, active intellect, and non-existence principle is the Self, Salutations unto Him, Shri
Dakshinamurti in the form of my own Guru, who destroys their great delusion born of Maya's power.
rhugrastadivkarendusado
mysamcchdant
sanmtra karaopasaharaato
yo'bhtsuupta pumn |
prgasvpsamiti prabodhasamaye ya
pratyabhijyate
rdakimrtaye ||6||
Who remains as pure existence in deep sleep caused by Maya's power, withdrawing the senses like
the sun or moon covered during an eclipse, Who upon waking remembers "I slept" Salutations unto
Him, Shri Dakshinamurti in the form of my own Guru.
blydivapi jgraddiu tath

sarvsvavasthsvapi
58
vyvttsvanuvartamnamahamityanta
sphuranta sad |
svtmna prakakaroti bhajat yo
mudray bhadray
rdakimrtaye ||7||
The Self manifest within as the ever present sense of I, that which remains in every state of life and
experience, to the one who reveals this Self to His disciples by His auspicious gesture of wisdom
Salutations unto Him, Shri Dakshinamurti in the form of my own Guru.
viva payati kryakraatay

svasvmisabandhata
iycryatay tathaiva
pitputrdytman bhedata |
svapne jgrati v ea puruo
myparibhrmita
rdakimrtaye ||8||
Who sees the universe as cause and effect, master and servant, teacher and disciple, father and son,
and so on, who sees all this in the waking and dream states due to Maya Salutations unto Him, Shri
Dakshinamurti in the form of my own Guru.
bhrambhsyanalo'nilo'mbaramaharnt
ho himu pumn
itybhti carcartmakamida yasyaiva
mrtyaakam |
nnyatkicana vidyate vimat
yasmtparasmdvibho
rdakimrtaye ||9||
Whose eight-fold manifestation is this sentient and insentient world of earth, water, fire, air, space,
sun, moon, and consciousness (Soul), being beyond whose all-pervasive nature there exists nothing
else for the wise persons Salutations unto Him, Shri Dakshinamurti in the form of my own Guru.

59
sarvtmatvamiti sphuktamida
yasmdamuminstave
tensya
ravattadarthamananddhyncca
sakrtant |
sarvtmatvamahvibhtisahita
sydvaratva svata
siddhyettatpunaraadh pariata
caivaryamavyhatam || 10||
Because the Self's all-pervasiveness is clearly revealed in this hymn, by listening to it, reflecting upon
it, meditating on its meaning, and reciting it one can gain enlightenment, effortlessly and without
impediments, with its great glory of being the Self of all with eightfold blessings.
*****
35.
(upadea
pacakam) * Page 585 in MPB
*****
36.
(ivpardhakampaastotram)
by
Adi Shankara
Note: In verses 1 - 11 of this Stotram, Acharya Shankara asks forgiveness for the various mistakes
committed by human beings in general. Through these verses, Acharya is instructing us the correct
way of leading life as per the Shaastras.
Not remembering Lord in any Stage of Life (verse 1 4)

dau karmaprasagtkalayati kalua mtkukau sthita m
vimtrmedhyamadhye kvathayati nitar jharo jtaved |
yadyadvai tatra dukha vyathayati nitar akyate kena vaktu
kantavyo me'pardha iva iva iva bho r mahdeva ambho ||1||
Due to the remnants of Karmic sins, I was created inside my mothers womb. In the heat of the womb
I am boiled in the presence of urine and excreta,. Who can describe the sufferings that I underwent
there, O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my offense.

60

blye dukhtirekn malalulitavapu stanyapne pipu
no aktacendriyebhyo bhavamalajanit jantavo m tudanti |
nnrogdidukhdrudanaparavaa akara na smarmi
kantavyo me'pardha iva iva iva bho r mahdeva ambho || 2||
There is an excess of suffering in infancy and childhood. The body is agitated by (frequent) urination
and passing of stools. There is a desire for drinking milk from the breast. There is no strength in the
organs. Many kinds of worms and insects like fly keep biting me. I was also attacked by many
ailments, I kept crying and never did I find time to think of thee O, Lord Parameshwara. O Shiva! O
Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my offense.

prauho'ha yauvanastho viayaviadharai pacabhirmarmasandhau
dao nao'viveka sutadhanayuvatisvdusaukhye niaa |
aivecintvihna mama hdayamaho mnagarvdhirha
When I mature into my youth, I was bitten by the five venomous serpents called sense objects (sound,
sight, taste, touch, and smell) in vulnerable spots. Hence I lost my discrimination (Viveka) and
became addicted to enjoying the (fleeting) pleasures of wealth, wife and children. Alas! My mind
bereft of the thought of Shiva was filled with great pride and arrogance. O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva!
O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my offense.

vrdhakye cendriy vigatagatimaticdhidaivditpai
61
prptai rogairviyogairvyasanakatanorjaptihna ca dnam |

mithymohbhilairbhramati mama mano dhrjaerdhynanya
In my old age, my senses have lost the power of proper judging and acting. I am subjected to the
three kinds of miseries (Taapatraya Adidaivika, Adibhautika, Adiyatmika). My body is weak and
senile from many afflictions, because of sins and illnesses and bereavements. But even now my mind,
instead of meditating on the one has matted locks of hair on the head (Lord Shiva), wanders after
vain desires and hollow delusions.O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my
offense.
Life Style prescribed for Householder (verse 5 8, follower of Vedapurva)

sntv pratyakle snapanavidhividhau nhta ggatoya
pjrtha v kadcidbahutaragahanekhaabilvdalav |
nnt padmaml sarasi vikasit gandhapupai tvadartha
Never have finished my ablutions before sunrise and brought water from the Ganga for your
Abhishekam, never have I plucked the Bilva leaves from the dense forests for your Puja. I have not
gathered full-blown lotuses from the lakes, nor ever arranged the flowers and the incense for
worshipping Thee. O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my offense.

dugdhairmadhvjyayukatairdadhiguasahitai snpita naiva liga
no lipta candandyai kanakaviracitai pjita na prasnai |
dhpai karpradpairvividharasayutairnaiva bhakyopahrai
62
I have not performed Abhishekam for the Shiva Lingam with milk, honey, butter and other oblations;
I have not anointed the Lingam with fragrant sandal paste, nor have I worshipped Thee with Dattura
flowers, incense and camphor-flame. I have never offered you Naivedya consisting of various dainty
delicacies. O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my offense.

no akya smrtakarma pratipadagahanepratyavykulhye
raute vrt katha me dvijakulavihite brahmamrg'nusre |
tatve jte vicre ravaamananayo ki nididhysitavya
I am unable to observe the Smaartha Karmas daily even though omission of even a single step of
such Karmas is extremely sinful, what to talk about the Shrouta Karmas laid down for the Dwijas
which are essential for attaining Brahman (I dont perform Shrouta Karmas as well). I am unable to
do Vedanta Vicharam by the process of Shravanam (hearing), Mananam (reasoning) and
Nididhyasam (reflection). O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my
offense.

dhytv citte ivkhya pracurataradhana naiva datta dvijebhya
havya te lakasakhyairhutavahavadane nrpita bjamantrai |
no tapta ggtre vratajananiyamai rudrajpyam na japta
Contemplating in my heart Thy sacred form, I have not donated rich wealth to Brahmins. I have
never offered oblations in Agni accompanied by one hundred thousand utterances of your Bija
Mantra. Never did I perform austerity in the banks of holy Ganga following the rules for Vratas and
Japas accompanied by the chanting of Sri Rudram and other Vedic hymns. O Shiva! O Shiva! O
Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my offense.
Life Style prescribed for Sanyasi (follower of Vedanta)
63

nagno nisagauddhastriguavirahito dhvastamohndhakra
nsgre nyastadirviditabhavaguo naiva da kadcit |
unmany'vasthay tv vigatagatimati akara na smarmi
Even after knowing your glories, O Lord I never remembered You, I never became - completely
detached, undisturbed & naked, transcended the three Gunas and destroyed the dakness of ignorance
(implying that I did not become a Sanyasi). I was never seen by anybody meditating on You (meaning
I never meditated) concentrating my gaze on the tip of my nose, reaching the Unmani state and
getting rid of all worries from my mind. O Shankara. O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O
Shambhu! Forgive my offense.
(*Unmani Avastha or Amani Bhava or Mano-Nasha is the state where one has transcended the mind
realizing it as Mithya. Mind is never a burden for such a person. It is not physical destruction of the mind.
based on lecture by Swami Paramarthananda on this Stotra).

sthitv sthne saroje praavamayamarutkumbhite skmamrge
nte svnte pralne prakaitavibhave divyarpe ivkhye |
liggre brahmavkye sakalatanugata akara na smarmi
I have not sat in the lotus posture, nor have I ever controlled the Prana and sent it through the micro
path (Yoga Saadhana), repeating the syllable Om; Never have I suppressed the turbulent waves of my
mind, nor merged with the Self. Never did I meditate on Shankara who dwells in every form, who
transcends the physical body and who is the essence of Vedas. O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O
Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive my offense.
64
:
hdya vedntavedya hdayasarasije dptamudyatpraka
satya ntasvarpa sakalamunimanah padmaaaikavedya |
jgratsvapne suuptau triguavirahita akara nasmarmi
kantavyo me'pardha iva iva iva bho rmahdeva ambho ||11||
O Lord I have never meditated on you as my Self, as the knower of Vedanta, residing in my lotus
heart, as consciousness that makes everything Shine, as nature of Reality, as the ever peaceful one,
meditated by the sages always in their lotus hearts, beyond, yet in and through the three states of
wakefulness, dream and deep sleep. O Shiva! O Shiva! O Shiva! O Mahadeva! O Shambhu! Forgive
my offense.
Seeking help from the Lord (verse 12 - 16)

candrodbhsitaekhare smarahare gagdhare akare
sarpairbhitakahakaravivare netrotthavaivnare |
dantitvakktasundarmbaradhare trailokyasre hare
mokrtha kuru cittavttimamalmanyaistu ki karmabhi || 12||
O Lord, on whose head the moon shines, who is the destroyer of Kama, who bears Ganga in his
head, who is the bestower of peace, whose neck and ears are adorned by serpents, from whose eyes
fire emanates, who wears the hide of the elephant as a beautiful garment, and who is the essence of
the three worlds, please make the activity of my mind firm on you for attaining Moksha. What is the
use of other Karmas?

65

kiy'nena dhanena vjikaribhi prptena rjyena ki
ki v putrakalatramitrapaubhirdehena gehena kim |
jtvaitatkaabhagura sapadi re tyjya mano drata
svtmrtha guruvkyato bhaja bhaja rprvatvallabham ||13||
What is the use of vehicles, riches, horses, elephants? What is the use of even having a Kingdom?
What is the use of having sons, wife, friends, cows and houses? What is the use of this body?
Knowing all this to be liable to perish in a moment, O Mind, be detached from all of them. For the
sake of Self Realization, follow the advice of the Guru and worship the consort of Parvati.

paurohitya rajanicarita grmatva niyoga
mhpatya hyantavacana skivda parnnam |
brahmadvea khalajanarati prin nirdayatva
mbhdeva mama paupate janma janmntareu ||14||
O Lord of all beings, spare me from the following actions in this and any further Janmas being a
leader/priest, being a robber, being a village head, being a slave, being head of a Matha, having to
tell a lie, having to give testimony as a witness in any proceeding, living on others mercy, enmity
with a Brahmin, friendship with wicked people, lacking compassion towards animals.

yurnayati payat pratidina yti kaya yauvana
66
pratyynti gat punarna divas klo jagadbhakaka |

lakmstoyataragabhagacapal vidyuccala jvita
tasmnm aragata karuaya tva raka rakdhun ||15||
Day by day, life span drains out before our very eyes, youth is getting exhausted. Days that are gone
will never return. Time devours everything. Fortune (wealth) is highly fickle like the waves in the
water; life is fleeting away like lightning. Therefore, O Lord, I am seeking refuge in you; protect me
immediately by your compassion.
*****

mouau madkin yasya

mlatmliknibh |
mauni mnasa hasoyam mauhyam
haratu naiva ||
- iti sarva iva
- Sri Chandrashekara Bharati Mahaswami
(Sringeri)
May Lord Shiva, who adorns Ganga in his matted locks, like the jasmine flower garland and who
resides in the hearts of the Paramahamsas, get rid of my ignorance.
*****
37.
(ivnandalahar) by Adi Shankara (Selected verses)
kalbhy claktaaikalbhy
nijatapa
phalbhy bhakteu prakaitaphalbhy

bhavatu me |
ivbhymastokatribhuvanaivbhy hdi
punarbhavbhymnandasphuradanubhavbhy

natiriyam ||1||
Let my salutations be dedicated to the auspicious pair of Shiva and Shakti, who are dedicated to art,
who wear the crescent moon on their head, who are the personification of mutual penance, who
teach devotees about the results of penance, who lavishly grant only good to the three worlds, who
appear in the heart afresh every so often they are thought of, who experience the supreme bliss of
Atmanubhava.
67
trayvedya hdya tripuraharamdya

trinayana
jabhrodra caladuragahra
mgadharam |
mahdeva deva mayi sadayabhva
paupati
cidlamba smba ivamativiamba
hdi bhaje ||3||
I meditate on Lord Shiva in my heart who is known by the three Vedas, who is pleasant to the mind,
who destroyed the three cities, who is first among everything, who has three eyes, who generously
carries the weight of matted lock, who wears the moving snake as his necklace, who holds the deer in
his hand, who is greatest among all Devas, who is Self-luminous, who is compassionate to me, who is
the Lord of all beings, who is the source of wisdom, who is always with Ambika and who is a great
entertainer.
manaste pdbje nivasatu vaca

stotraphaitau
karau cbhyarcy rutirapi
kathkaranavidhau |
tava dhyne buddhirnayanayugala
mrtivibhave
paragranthn kairv paramaiva jne
paramata ||7||
Let the mind dwell on your two lotus like feet, Let my words always sing thy glory, Let my two hands
always perform your worship, Let my ears always hear your holy stories, Let my mind always
meditate on you, Let my two eyes always see thy beauty. After all these, I do not find any use of other
great books to me, O supreme God.
srpya tava pjane iva mahdeveti sakrtane

smpya ivabhaktidhuryajanatsgatyasabhae |
slokya ca carcartmakatanudhyne bhavnpate
syujya mama siddhamatra bhavati svmin ktrtho'smyaham ||28||
Your worship is Saaroopya Mukti (having the same form as the Lord), singing your glories and
calling you Hey Shiva and Hey Mahadeva is Saamipya Mukti (being intimate with the Lord),
indulging in sweet conversation with your devotees who always think about you is Saalokya Mukti
(living with the Lord), always seeing (meditating) you in every moving and non-moving form is
Saayujya Mukti (merging with the Lord). And so I get all these in this birth itself, O God who is the
68
consort of Bhavani, I am thankful to you for all these.

akola nijabjasantatirayaskntopala scik
sdhv naijavibhu lat kitiruha sindhu saridvallabham |
prpnotha yath tath paupate pdravindadvaya
cetovttirupetya tihati sad s bhaktirityucyate ||61||
That state of mind is called Bhakti wherein all thoughts go automatically to the lotus feet of the Lord
and stays there forever just like: the seed of Ankola tree (on falling) gravitates to the parent tree, the
iron needle reaches for the magnetic stone, the devoted wife always things about her husband, the
creeper reaches for the tree and the river merges with the ocean.
* His Holiness Sri Abhinava Vidyateertha - Mahaswami of Sringeris commentary on the above verse - Adi
Shankara has described the stages of devotion and illustrated those using beautiful similes in the above verse.
Initially the devotee forcibly turns his mind towards God and holds on to His feet. The seed of an Ankola tree
sticking to its parent tree serves as an example for this. When the devotee has turned his mind towards the
Lord, the latter becomes intensely favorable towards the devotee and graces him. It is as if Ishwara is pulling
the devotee towards Him and preventing any departure from Him. An illustration for this is a needle being
drawn towards a magnet. This marks the second stage. The third stage accrues when the devotee's heart is
completely concentrated on God. The Lord, in turn, is extremely affectionate towards the devotee. The
situation is comparable to that of a chaste wife showering her husband with love and the husband
reciprocating her feelings of affection. The devotee gradually becomes an ornament of the Lord. In fact, but
for Prahlada, the Lord might not have manifested as Narasimha and graced the world. So in a way, the
devotee adds to the glory of the Lord. An analogy is a creeper entwining a tree and beautifying it. On
transcending this fourth stage, the devotee attains total union with the Lord. An example of this is the merger
of a river with an ocean. Once the river has joined the ocean, it cannot be distinguished from the ocean. The
devotee too becomes inseparable from the Lord.
Now the point to ponder is in which stage of Bhakti are we at present? or Are we in any of the stages at
all?

mrgvartitapduk paupateragasya krcyate
69
gabuniecana puraripordivybhiekyate |
kicidbhakitamsaeakabala navyopahryate
bhakti ki na karotyaho vanacaro bhaktvatasyate ||63||
The way faring sandals becomes the Kusa crown for the Lord of all beings, the gargled mouthful of
water becomes the holy water for the Abhishekam for the one who destroyed the three cities
(Tripuraari), the remnant pieces of the tasted meat become the holy offering to the Lord, and wonder
of wonders, the hunter who lives in the forest becomes the king of devotees. What is there in this
world that devotion to the Lord cannot do?
*The above verse is an allegory based on the devotion shown by Kannappa Naayanar, a hunter devotee of
Lord Shiva. He used his sandals to mark the eye of the Lord (to give his own eyes), he used to bring water in
his mouth for the Abhishekam of the Lingam and he used to offer the meat pieces after tasting them (Kannappa
used to taste and offer only the best portions in the meat to the Lord).
*****
38.
(bilvakam)
tridala trigukra trietra ca

triyyudham |
trijanmappasahra ekabilva
ivrpaam ||1||
I offer to Lord Shiva a cluster of three Bilva leaves which symbolize three Gunas (that make up His
Maya Shakti), which represent His three eyes, which represents the the three kinds of weapons He
bears and whos very thought destroys the sins accumulated from past three births (just an indicative
number).
trikairbilvapatraica acchidrai
komalaiubhai |
tava pj kariymi ekabilva ivrpaam
||2||
I perform puja to Lord Shiva with bunch of three Bilva leaves that are auspicious, soft and tender,
which are not damaged or defective in any manner.
darana bilvavkasya sparana

ppananam |
aghorappasahra ekabilva
ivrpaam ||3||
Even having a look at the Bilva tree or touching it destroys the most horrible sins one might have
committed. Hence I offer the Bilva leaf to the Lord.
70
kketranivsa ca klabhairavadaranam|
prayge mdhava dv ekabilva
ivrpaam ||4||
If one stays at the holy city of Kasi and has darshan of Lord Kalabhairava there, visits Prayag and
has darshan of Lord Madhava there and also offers worship to Lord Shiva with a Bilva leaf he is
assured of Lord's grace.
tulas bilvanirgu jabrmalaka tath |

pacabilvamiti khyt ekabilva
ivrpaam ||5||
Thulasi, Bilva, Nirgundi, lime leaves and goose berry leaves are famous as pancha bilvas. Meditating
on them I offer a Bilva leaf to the Lord.
taka dhananikepa brahmasthpya

ivlayam |
koikanymahdna ekabilva
ivrpaam || 6||
The Punyam obtained by digging a pond, giving away lot of wealth as Daanam, building Shiva
temples, performing crore Kanyaa Daanam is equivalent to offering a Bilva leaf (with Bhakti) to the
Lord.
dantyavakoidnni avamedhaatni ca
|
koikanymahdna ekabilva
ivrpaam ||7||
The Punyam obtained by giving the Daanam of crores elephants & horses, performing hundred
Ashwamedha sacrifice, performing crore Kanyaa Daanam is equivalent to offering a Bilva leaf (with
Bhakti) to the Lord.
slagrmasahasri viprnna
atakoikam |
yajakoisahasri ekabilva ivrpaam
||8||
The Punyam obtained by giving away thousands of Saalagraamam, feeding many crores of
Brahmanas, performing crores of Yajnas is equivalent to offering a Bilva leaf (with Bhakti) to the
Lord.

71
ajnena kta ppa jnenpi kta ca

yat |
tatsarva namytu ekabilva

ivrpaam ||9||
The Paapams done knowingly or un-knowingly will get destroyed by offering a Bilva leaf (with
Bhakti) to the Lord.
ekaikabilvapatrea koiyajaphala labhet

|
mahdevasya pjrtha ekabilva
ivrpaam ||10||
Each one of the Bilva leaf (offered to the Lord with Bhakti) gives the punyam of crores of Yajnam. I
offer a Bilva leaf for the puja of Mahadeva.
amtodbhavavkasya mahdevapriyasya
ca |
mucyante kaakght kaakebhyo hi
mnav ||11||
The tree which was born along with Amrita and which is liked by Lord Mahadeva removes the thorn
like miseries of human beings.
*****
39.
(ligakam)

brahmamurrisurrcitaligam nirmalabhsitaobhitaligam |
janmajadukhavinakaligam tat praammi sadivaligam ||1||
The Linga that is worshipped by Brahma, Vishnu and all the Gods, the Linga that is praised by pure
and holy speeches, the Linga that destroys the cycle of birth and death, to that Linga (representing)
Sadashiva, my prostrations.

devamunipravarrcitaligam kmadaham karukara ligam |
72
rvaadarpavinanaligam tat praammi sadiva ligam ||2||

The Linga that is worshipped by sages, which destroyed cupid, which is infinitely compassionate,
which subdued the pride of Ravana, to that Linga (representing) Sadashiva, my salutations.

sarvasugandhisulepitaligam buddhivivardhanakraaligam |
siddhasursuravanditaligam tat praammi sadiva ligam ||3||
The Linga that is well smeared with all fragrance, that which elevates the power of thought and
enkindles the light of discrimination, the Linga that is worshipped by the Siddhas, Devas and Asuras,
to that Linga (representing) Sadashiva, my salutations.

kanakamahmaibhitaligam phanipativeita obhita ligam |
dakasuyaja vinana ligam tat praammi sadiva ligam ||4||
The Linga adorned with gold and precious jewels, that is radiant, that has the king of serpents coiled
around it, the Linga that destroyed the Yaaga conducted by Daksha, to that Linga (representing)
Sadashiva, my salutations.

kukumacandanalepitaligam pakajahrasuobhitaligam |
sacitappavinanaligam tat praammi sadiva ligam ||5||
The Linga which is smeared with Kumkuma and Sandal paste, that which appears radiant with a
garland of lotuses, the Linga that destroys accumulated sins, to that Linga (representing) Sadashiva,
my prostrations.

devagarcita sevitaligam bhvairbhaktibhireva ca ligam |
dinakarakoiprabhkaraligam tat praammi sadiva ligam ||6||
73
The Linga that is worshipped by Devas with genuine thoughts full of faith and devotion, the Linga
that is effulgent like a millions of suns, to that Linga (representing) Sadashiva, my prostrations.

aadalopariveitaligam sarvasamudbhavakraaligam |
aadaridravinitaligam tat praammi sadiva ligam ||7||
The Linga that is enveloped with eight-fold petals, the Linga that is the cause of all creations, that
which destroys the eight fold poverty, to that Linga (representing) Sadashiva, my prostrations.

ligakamida puya ya pahet ivasannidhau |
ivalokamavpnoti ivena saha modate ||
Whoever chants these sacred verses of Lingaashtakam in the proximity of Lord Shiva (thinking about
the Lord) attains the abode of Lord Shiva and enjoys there with Him everlasting Bliss.
*****
40.
(rudrakam)
by Goswami Tulasidas

nammamna nirvarpa vibhu vypaka brahmavedasvarpam |
nija nirgua nirvikalpa nirha cidkamkavsa bhaje'ham ||1||
I bow to the ruler of the Universe, whose is ever liberated, the omnipotent and all-pervading
Brahman, manifest as the Vedas. I worship Shiva, shining in his own glory, without physical
qualities, undifferentiated, desire-less, all-pervading consciousness and wearing the sky itself as His
garment.

74

nirkramokramla turya gir jna gottama giram |
karla mahkla kla kpla gugra sasrapra nato'ham ||2||
I bow to the supreme Lord who is the formless source of Om, transcending all conditions and
states, beyond speech, understanding and sense perception, the Self of all, the ruler of Kailash, awefull, devourer of death, gracious, the immortal abode of all virtues, the one who is beyond Samsara.
turdri saka gaura gabhra manobhta koiprabh r arram |

sphuranmauli kallolin cru gag lasadbhlablendu kahe bhujag ||3||
I worship Shankara, whose form is white as the Himalyan snow, Radiant with the beauty of countless
Manmatas, whose head sparkles with the Ganga, who has crescent moon adorning his hair locks and
snakes coiling his neck.

calatkuala bhr sunetra vila prasannnana nlakaha daylam |
mgdhacarmmbara muamla priya akara sarvantha bhajmi ||4||
I worship the beloved Lord of all, with shimmering pendants hanging from his ears, beautiful
eyebrows and large eyes, full of mercy with a cheerful countenance and a blue speck on his throat.

pracaa praka pragalbha parea akhaa aja bhnukoiprakam |
traya la nirmlana lapi bhaje'ha bhavnpati bhvagamyam ||5||
I worship Shankara, Bhavanis husband, the fierce, exalted, luminous supreme Lord, indivisible,
unborn and radiant with the glory of a million suns. Who, holding a trident, tears out the root of the
three-fold suffering, and who is reached only through Love.

75

kaltta kalya kalpntakr sad sajjannandadt purr |
cidnanda sadoha mohpahr prasda prasda prabho manmathr ||6||
You who are without parts, ever blessed, the cause of universal destruction at the end of each round
of creation, a source of perpetual delight to the pure of heart, slayer of the demon Tripura,
consciousness and bliss personified, dispeller of delusion, have mercy on me, O foe of Manmata
(Lust).

na yvat umntha pdravinda bhajantha loke pare v narm |
na tvat sukha nti santpana prasda prabho sarvabhtdhivsam ||7||
O Lord of Uma, so long as you are not worshipped there is no happiness, peace or freedom from
suffering in this world or the next. You who dwell in the hearts of all living beings and in whom all
beings have their existence, have mercy on me, O Lord.

na jnmi yoga japa naiva pj nato'ha sad sarvad ambhu tubhyam |
jar janma dukhaugha ttapyamna prabho phi pannamma ambho ||8||
I dont know Yoga, prayers or rituals, but everywhere and at every moment I bow to you, O
Shambhu! Protect me my Lord, miserable and afflicted as I am with the sufferings of birth, old-age
and death.

rudrakamida prokta viprea haratoaye |
ye pahanti nar bhakty te ambhu prasdati ||
This eightfold hymn of praise was sung by a Brahmin (Tulsasidas) to please Shankara. Shambhu will
be pleased (with the person) who heart- fully recites it.
*****
76
41.
(ivottara atanmvali)
(10)
(30)
(50)
(20)
(40)
(60)
77
(108)
(70)
(90)

(80)

(100)
78
(nirgua mnasa pj)
rdhaymi maisannibhamamtmaliga
mypurhdayapakaja saniviam |
raddhnadvimalacittajalbhiekai
nitya samdhikusumairnapunarbhavya
||
Verse 9 by Adi Shankara
I worship the be-jeweled Linga of the Self (Atmalinga), residing in the lotus-heart of the illusory
body, the city of Maya. For not being born again (for sake of Moksham), I perform Abhishekam using
the clear water of thought (Chitta) from the river of Shraddha and offer flowers of Samadhi to the
Lingam.
*****
Other Shiva Stotras
42.
43.
44.
(ivamnasapj) * Page 470 in MPB
(ivapackarastotra)
* Page 459 in MPB
(dvdaajyotirligasmaraa)
*
Page 463 in MPB
45.
(vedasraivastotram)
* Page 464 in MPB
46.
(r kailsapatiprrthan) * Page 471 in
MPB
47.
48.
(ardhanrvarastotram)
* Page 473 in MPB
(klabhairavakam)
* Page 482 in MPB
*****
79
49.
subrahmaya bhujagam) by Adi
(r
Shankara
Invocation of Lord Vigneshwara
sad blarp'pi vighndrihantr

mahdantivaktr'pi pacsyamny |
vidhndrdimgy gaebhidh me
vidhatt riya k'pi kalyamrti ||1||

Though He always sports the appearance of a child, He can crumble the mountains of obstacles.
Though He is elephant-faced, He is honored even by his five-faced father Shiva (Sadyojaatam,
Vaamadevam, Aghoram, Tatpurusham and Iishaanam). Lord Brahma, Indra and the other Devas
seek him to fulfill their aspirations. He is known as Ganesha and He is endowed with boundless
glory. May He bless me with prosperity.
Acharyas Humility
na jnmi abda na jnmi crtha

na jnmi padya na jnmi gadyam |
cidek asya hdi dyotate me
mukhnnisarante giracpi citram ||2||
I know not the science of musical sounds, I know not the meanings of complex texts either, I know not
the nature of shlokas made of four types of padaas, nor do I know the intricacies of the gadhyam
style! But in my heart, shines an effulgent light with six luminous faces, and because of that, from my
mouth, amazing phrases with musical tone and meanings pour out in extempore.
Lord Subramanya is the Goal of the Vedas
mayrdhirha mahvkyagha
manohrideha mahaccittageham |
mahdevadeva mahvedabhva
mahdevabla bhaje lokaplam ||3||

O Son of Mahadeva! Seated on the peacock chariot, being the essence of the great Maha Vaakyaas,
80
having wonderfully attractive body, dwelling in the heart of great sages, O the quintessence of four
Vedas! Thou are indeed the Lord of the Universe. (* It is said that Lord Subramanya gave darshan to
Shankara when he sang this verse.)
Reason for residing in the Sea Shore (Tiruchendur)
yad sanidhna gat mnav me

bhavmbhodhipra gatste tadaiva |
iti vyajayansindhutre ya ste
tame pavitra paraktiputram ||4||

O Lord Subramanya! Son of spotless Parashakti (the Mother of the Cosmos), Thou have taken your
abode near the sea shore Tiruchendur as if it is an indication that whenever the devotees take refuge
in Thee, they can easily cross the ocean of samsara (the eternal cycle of life and death) and reach the
other side of the shore safely!. (*This Stotram was sung by Adi Shankara by the inspiration of the Lord
Subramanya at Tiruchendur in the Bhujanga (serpent) metre - noted for its sinuous movement like that of
a serpent).
Lord is the destroyer of devotees difficulties
yathbdhestarag laya yanti tug

tathaivpada sannidhau sevat me |
itvormipaktrn darayanta
sad bhvaye htsaroje guha tam ||5||

The waves of worries that haunt the minds of the devotees get destroyed like the waves of the ocean
when they hit the shore; Thou stands on the sea-side town (of Tiruchendur) exemplifying this truth
that the mental worry-waves get destroyed when the devotees surrender themselves at Thy feet. O
Lord Guha (one who resides in the cave of the heart)! I meditate on you always.
Glory of Sugandha Hill
girau mannivse nar ye'dhirh

tad parvate rjate te'dhirh |
itva bruvangandhaaildhirha
sa devo mude me sad amukho'stu ||6||

O Lord Shanmukha! Thou stands on the top of the Sugandha hill, proclaiming that whenever the
81
devotees climb this hill it will give the same benefit as climbing the King of mountains (Kailash in
Himalayas)! May the six-faced Lord on the Sugandha hills remain there to bless me!
Glory of Lord Guha
mahmbhodhitre mahppacore
munindrnukle sugandhkhyaaile |
guhy vasanta svabhs lasanta
janrti haranta raymo guha tam ||7||

On the shores of the great ocean which steals away the sins of the devotees, stands the Sugandha
hills, the most favorable site for the sages to perform their penance! Thou resides there to destroy the
worries of the devotees! O Self-luminous Lord who is present in the cave of the heart (Guha)! I adore
Thee!
Description of Lords Sanctum Sanctorum
lasatsvaragehe n kmadohe
sumastomasachannamikyamace |
samudyatsahasrrkatulyapraka
sad bhvaye krtikeya suream ||8||

In a radiant golden room, on a cot set with rubies and covered on all sides with sweet smelling
flowers, Thou art seated with the effulgence of a thousand suns! Thou art the answer to every desire
of the heart and Thou fulfill the righteous desires of Thy devotees! Thou art the Lord of Devas and
son of the Lord of the Universe! O Kartikeya I meditate on Thee!
Meditation on Lords Feet
raaddhasake majule'tyantaoe
manohrilvayapyapre |
manaapado me bhavakleatapta
sad modat skanda te pdapadme ||9||

Let the mind which is burdened with domestic troubles become happy by hovering around Thy lotus
feet (like a bee) which is adorned with the jingling ringlets made of rings and beads, red in color
indicating grace, filled with the nectar of beauty which attracts the minds of the devotees.
82
Meditation on Lords Waist
suvarbhadivymbarairbhsamn
kvaatkikimekhalobhamnm |
lasaddhemapaena vidyotamn
kai bhvaye skanda te dpyamnm ||10 ||

O! Skanda, I meditate on Thy waist which is covered by a gold colored cloth, shining with a string of
ringing bells and beads, wearing a shining gold belt over the golden silk cloth, and which is by itself
self-resplendent.
Meditation on Lords chest
pulindeakanyghanbhogatuga
stanligansaktakmrargam |
namasymaha trakre tavora
svabhaktvane sarvad snurgam ||11||
O! Conqueror of Tarakasura! By embracing Valli's (hunter's daughter) well-developed breast

ornated with saffron, Thy chest became red colored, thereby manifesting your eternal grace towards
devotees. And such a chest I adore.
Meditation on Twelve Arms of the Lord
vidhau kptadan svalldhtn

nirastebhaun dviatkladan |
hatendrriajagatraaun
sad te pracan raye bhudan ||12||

O! Shanmukha! Thy arms punished Brahma, Thy arms govern the world as Thy sport; Thy arms
killed Soorapadma and other demons who are enemies of Indra; Thy arms are matchless in
protecting the Universe, and Thy arms are a terror to Thine enemies. I worship Thy twelve arms
which do all these things effortlessly.
Meditation on Lords Six Faces

83
sad rad amgk yadi syu

samudyanta eva sthitcetsamantt |
sad prabimb kalakaica hn

tad tvanmukhn bruve skanda smyam
||13||

What can I compare to Thy six faces! If there be six full moons free from blemishes and if those
moons be ever shining on all sides, even then they would be no match to your effulgent faces.
Meditation on Lords facial features
sphuranmandahsai sahasni cacat

kakvalbhgasaghojjvalni |
sudhsyandibimbdharaasno
tavlokaye amukhmbhoruhi ||14||

O! Son of Parameshwara, I see Thy six smiling faces shining like a group of swans, having gleaming
side glances ever moving like a row of bees and with red lips overflowing with nectar.
Meditation on Lords Twelve Eyes

vileu karntadrghevajasra
daysyandiu dvdaasvkaeu |
mayatkaka saktptitacet
bhavette dayla k nma hni ||15||
O! Son of Parameshwara! O Merciful Lord! When Thou hast twelve broad long eyes extending upto
ears, what will Thou lose by casting that side glance for a moment (on me)?
Meditation on Lords Six Heads
sutgodbhavo me'si jveti adh

japanmantramo mud jighrate yn |
jagadbhrabhdbhyo jaganntha tebhya
kirojjvalebhyo namo mastakebhya ||16||

84
O! Lord of the Universe! I offer my prostration to Thy six heads wearing crowns with brilliant rubies
which protects the welfare of all creatures, which were smelt by Parameshwara with joy uttering six
times the mantra "Child Thou were born of me, May Thou live long.
Meditation on Lord Balasubramanya

sphuradratnakeyrahrbhirma
calatkualarlasadgaabhga |
kaau ptavsa kare cruakti
purastnmamst purrestanja ||17||
O Kumara! Son of Lord Parameshwara (who destroyed Tripura)! With garlands of brilliant rubies
on Thy shoulders and chest, with bright cheeks shining with pendants dangling from Thy ears,
wearing silk garment around Thy waist, and with Vel in Thy hand, O Lord! Appear before me (*It is
said that Lord gave darshan to Acharya when he sung this stotra).
Meditation on Somaskandar
ihyhi vatseti hastnprasryt

hvayatydarcchakare mturakt |
samutpatya tta rayanta kumra
harliagtra bhaje blamrtim ||18||

When Lord Shankara called Thee affectionately with arms extended, Thou hurriedly rose from
Mother's lap and rushed into Shankara's arms who embraced Thee affectionately. I meditate on such
a Lord Kumara.
Meditation on Lords Eleven names to conquer passion
kumreasno guha skanda senpate

aktipe mayrdhirha |
pulindtmajknta bhaktrtihrin
prabho trakre sad raka m tvam ||19 ||

O Kumara! O Son of Lord of the Universe! One who shines in the cave of the heart as Guha! O
Skanda! O Lord of the Devas' Army! O Wielder of the weapon Vel which is the svarupa of
Parashakti! One who rides on the peacock chariot! O Beloved of the Hunter's daughter (Valli)!
Destroyer of the sins of your devotees! Enemy of Tarakasura! O Lord protect me!
85
Prayer for Darshan during the last moments of Life
prantendriye naasaje vicee

kaphodgrivaktre bhayotkampigtre |
prayonmukhe mayyanthe tadn
druta me daylo bhavgre guha tvam
||20||

Hail Guha, Dayalo. During the last moments of my life, when I would have lost control of my senses,
when I would have lost consciousness, when I will be unable move my limbs, when I will be emitting
foam of phlegm, when my body will be trembling with fear of death, when I will have none to protect
me, Thou must hasten to give me Darshan.
Prayer to give Darshan during Death Pangs
ktntasya dteu caeu kopd

daha cchinddhi bhinddhti m tarjayatsu |
mayra samruhya m bhairiti tva
pura aktipirmamyhi ghram ||21||
O! Lord, when ferocious messengers of the God of Death come to torture me angrily shouting, "Burn
him, Kill him", Oh! Lord Thou must hasten to appear before me, riding on your peacock, carrying
Shaktivel, to encourage me not to be afraid.
Prayer for Protection During the last moments
praamysaktpdayoste patitv
prasdya prabho prrthaye'nekavram |
na vaktu kamo'ha tadn kpbdhe
na kryntakle mangapyupek ||22||

O Merciful Lord! I am prostrating to Thy feet often to secure Thy blessings. O treasure house of
mercy! I offer prayers to please Thee. Thou should not be indifferent towards me during my last
moments. At that time I may not have the control and energy to pray to Thee.
Prayer to Drive away Mental Worries
sahasrabhokt tvay ranm

hatastraka sihavaktraca daitya |
86
mamntarhdistha manakleameka
na hasi prabho ki karomi kva ymi || 23 ||
O Lord! Thou hast slain the demon Soora who ruled the thousand universes! So were the demons
Taarakasura and Simhavaktra. But Lord, why have you not killed the demon called mental worry
which haunts my mind? When it is afflicting me, what will I do? And where will I go (other than you
for help)?
Prayer to Destroy Mental Worries
aha sarvad dukhabhrvasanno

bhavndnabandhustvadanya na yce |
bhavadbhaktirodha sad kptabdha
mamdhi druta nayomsuta tvam ||24 ||

O Son of Uma! I am always troubled by the mental worries. Thou art the friend of helpless! I
approach none but you for saving me. Quickly destroy my mental worries as they interfere with my
devotion towards Thee!
Glory of the Lords Holy Ash
apasmrakuakayra pramehajvaronmdagulmdirog mahnta |

picca sarve bhavatpatrabhti
vilokya kattrakre dravante ||25||

O Conqueror of Taraka! Severe epilepsy, leprosy, consumption, lung diseases, venereal diseases,
fevers, mental diseases of all types, they run away the moment they see Thy Vibhuti given in a leaf
(Patra Bhooti).
Let all my Indriyas act for Skanda
87
di skandamrti rutau skandakrti

mukhe me pavitra sad taccaritram |
kare tasya ktya vapustasya bhtya
guhe santu ln mameabhv ||26||

Always may I have before my eyes the murthi of Lord Skanda! Always let my ears hear only the
praises of Lord Skanda! Always let my mouth sing the praise of Lord Skanda! Always let my hands be
of service to the Lord! Always let my body serve the Lord! Let my limbs, thoughts and actions be
devoted to Skanda!
Lord Guha is the Savior of ordinary people
munnmutho n bhaktibhjm
abhaprad santi sarvatra dev |
nmantyajnmapi svrthadne
guhddevamanya na jne na jne ||27||
In all the worlds there are Devas to grant the boons of sages and great Bhaktas. But for the lowly
and ordinary devotees, I know not of any other Deity to protect them except Guha!
Lord is our Family Deity

kalatra sut bandhuvarga paurv
naro vtha nri ghe ye madiy |
yajanto namanta stuvanto bhavanta
smarantaca te santu sarve kumra ||28||

O Lord Kumara! Let my wife, children, relatives, friends, other men and women in our household,
venerate Thee! Praise Thee! And always be absorbed in Thy thoughts!
Prayer to Vel to Destroy Diseases
mg pakio daak ye ca du
tath vydhayo bdhak ye madage |
bhavacchaktitkgrabhinn sudre
vinayantu te critakraujaaila ||29||

88
O! Destroyer of Krauncha Shaila! Let everything that troubles my body, birds, beasts, insects, severe
diseases, be pierced by Thy powerful weapon Vel and taken far away and destroyed.
Prayer to the Father of the Universe
janitr pit ca svaputrpardha

sahete na ki devasendhintha |
aha ctiblo bhavn lokatta
kamasvpardha samasta mahea ||30||
Do not the parents overlook the faults of their children? Oh! Chief of the army of Devas! I am a small
child. Thou art the Father of the Universe. Oh Mahesha! Forgive all my faults.
Prayer to the Lord
nama kekine aktaye cpi tubhya

namachga tubhya nama kukkuya |
nama sindhave sindhudeya tubhya
puna skandamrte namaste namo'stu ||31||
I bow to Thee, O Peacock (the symbol of Vedas)! I bow to Thee, O Shakti Weapon (Vel is Parashakti
herself), I bow to Thee, O Sheep (the symbol of Maya tattvam), I bow to Thee, O Rooster (the symbol
of Ego), I bow to Thee, O Ocean (the symbol of Ananda), I bow to Thee, O Tiruchendur Shrine, I bow
to Thee, O Lord Skanda! I bow to Thee again and again! Let all my prostrations reach Thee.
Prayer to the Lord to reveal His Powers
jaynandabhmajaypradhma
jaymoghakrte jaynandamrte |
jaynandasindho jayeabandho
jaya tva sad muktidneasno ||32||

O Source of Ananda, reveal Thyself O Embodiment of boundless effulgent light, reveal Thyself O
Lord! who has all-pervading glory, reveal Thyself O Embodiment of bliss, reveal Thyself O Lord,
Thou art the ocean of bliss, reveal Thyself O Lord who is the friend of all creatures, reveal Thyself O
Lord, Son of Parameshwara, bestower of liberation, reveal Thy Glory to me and protect me.
Phalashruthi
89
bhujagkhyavttena kpta stava ya

pahedbhaktiyukto guha sapraamya |
suputrnkalatra dhana drghamyu
labhetskandasyujyamante nara sa ||33||
That devotee, who prostrates to Lord Guha, reciting the Bhujanga Stotra daily, with devotion, will be
blessed with good sons, good wife, wealth and long life, and at end of his life, will attain eternal bliss
with Lord Skanda.
*****
50.
(subramaya
karvalamba stotram)
he svmintha karukara dnabandho

r prvatamukhapakaja padmabandho |
rdidevagaapjitapdapadma
vallantha mama dehi karvalambam ||1||

O Lord of Valli extend thy hand of support, who is the chief of gods, who is merciful, who is friend of
the oppressed, who is the son of the lotus faced Lord of Goddess Parvathi, and whose lotus feet is
worshipped by all gods and also by Lord of Lakshmi (Lord Vishnu).
devdidevasuta devagadhintha
devendravandya mdupakajamajupda|
devarinradamunndrasugtakrte

O Lord of Valli extend thy hand of support, who is the son of God of gods, who is the chief of all
gods, whose soft lotus like feet is worshipped by Devendra, and whose fame is sung by sage Narada
and others.
90
nitynnadna niratkhila rogahrin

bhgyapradhna paripritabhaktakma |
rutygamapraavavcyanijasvarpa
vallantha mama dehi karvalambam || ||

O Lord of Valli extend thy hand of support, who gives food daily in charity, who cures all prevalent
diseases, who bestows fortune, who fulfills all wishes of devotees, and whose real form is the
Pranava (Om) found in the Vedas and Agamas.
kraucsurendra parikhaana aktila

cpadidiastraparimaitadivyape |
rkuala dhtatua ikhndravha

O Lord of Valli, who destroyed Krounchasura who was in the form of a mountain, who holds
Shakthi-Shoola, bow & arrows and other weapons in your holy hands, who wears ear rings and who
rides the fast moving peacock, extend thy hand of support.
devdideva rathamaala madhyametya

devendra p aanakara dhacpahastam |
ranihatya surakoibhiryamna

O Lord of Valli extend thy hand of support, O God of Gods mightly breaking a group of chariots by
shooting arrows very quickly (during the fight against Rakshasas), you drove away the pains of
Devendra and was praised by millions of Devas after the destruction of the demon Surapadma.

91
hrdiratnavarayuktakirahra
keyrakualalasatkavacbhirma |
he vra traka jay'maravndavandya

O Lord of Valli extend thy hand of support, who wears crowns and chains studded with diamonds
and gems, who wears armlet, ear rings & strong armour, who is the valorous one who killed
Tharakasura and was saluted by all the devas.
packardimanumantrita ggatoyai
pacmtai
pramuditendramukhairmunndrai |
pabhiikta mghavta naysantha

O Lord of Valli extend thy hand of support, who was crowned as their leader by Indra & other
learned sages, accompanied with the chanting of the Panchakshara (holy five letters) & other
mantras, who was bathed using the holy water of Ganga and anointed with the five holy nectars
(Panchamrutha).
rkrtikeya karumtaprady
kmdirogakaluktaduacittam |
siktvtummava kalnidhikoiknta

Thou art known as Karthikeya, Thy nectar like glances are full of mercy and cure the diseases like
passion which have made my heart impure, Thou art the treasure house of arts and you like millions
of Suns, O Lord of Valli extend thy hand of support and protect me.
subrahmaya karvalamba puya ye

pahanti dvijottam
te sarve mukti mynti subrahmaya
prasdata |
subrahmaya karvalambamida
prtarutthya ya pahet
koijanmakta ppa tatkadeva
nayati ||
The twice born who reads this Karavalamba Stotra, would attain salvation by the grace of Lord
Subrahmanya, and for him who reads this Stotra on Subrahmanya early in the morning , the sins
committed in millons of previous births will vanish in a second.
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51.
(par pj) by Adi Shankara
akhae saccidnande
nirvikalpaikarpii |
sthite'dvityabhve'sminkatha pj
vidhyate ||1||
How do I worship that entity, which is limitless and without borders, which is full of perennial bliss,
which has a form that is beyond imagination and which stands alone without a second.
prasyvhana kutra sarvdhrasya

csanam |
svacchasya pdyamarghya ca
uddhasycamana kuta ||2||
Where can I invoke the complete and what should be used as a seat for the One Who is the supreme
pillar of existence? Where is the way to clean the feet of the spotless and where is the way to purify
the pure.
nirmalasya kuta snna vastra

vivodarasya ca |
agotrasya tvavarasya
kutastoyopavtakam ||2||
How can I offer Him a bath, when He is the purest of the pure, how can I offer him a dress, when He
has the universe in his belly. How can I offer him sacred thread, when He is without color, creed and
caste?
nirlepasya kuto gandha pupa

nirvsanasya ca |
nirvieasya k bh ko'lakro
nirkte ||4||
How can I offer sandal paste, to the one who is beyond touch, how I can I offer fragrant flowers when
He is beyond smell and scent, how can I offer him ornaments when He is already beyond adjectives,
how can I offer him decoration when He does not have any form?
nirajanasya ki dhpairdpairv
sarvaskia |
nijnandaikatptasya naivedya ki
bhavediha ||5||
How can I offer scented smoke to the dispassionate one, how can I offer him a lighted lamp when He
93
is the witness for everything, how can I offer Him sacred offering to eat, when He is satisfied in his
own bliss?
vivnandapitustasya ki tmbla
prakalpyate |
svayamprakacidrpo
yo'svarkdibhsaka ||6||
What is the point in offering betel leaf and nut when He is the one who makes the world happy, who
is Self-luminous, who is the universal spirit, and who makes the sun, the moon and others shine.
pradaki hyanantasya hyadvayasya

kuto nati |
vedavkyairavedyasya kuta stotra
vidhyate ||4||
How can I offer him circumambulation when He is all pervasive, one without the second and without
end? How can I praise with words of Vedas who is beyond the scope of the sentences of the Vedas.
svaya prakamnasya kuto nrjana

vibho |
antarbahica prsya kathamudvsana
bhavet ||8||
How can I show the light of Camphor to Him when he, himself is Self-luminous. How can I offer him
a farewell when He is spread inside and outside of everywhere?
evameva par pj sarvvasthsu sarvad |

ekabuddhy tu devea vidhey
brahmavittamai ||9||
Those great masters with the knowledge of Brahman should single mindedly worship the Lord of the
Gods, using this Parapuja always and in all times.
*****
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52.
(viveka cmai brahmabhvan) by Adi Shankara
Note: The Shastras repeatedly point out the truth that we are not the limited body, mind and
intellect, but the eternal, absolute and blissful consciousness (Self). The following verses form
important aid to meditation on the Self and making the knowledge firm.
jtintikulagotradraga
nmarpaguadoavarjitam |
deaklaviaytivarti yad
brahma tattvamasi bhvaytmani ||254||

That which has no caste, creed, family or lineage, which is without name and form, merit and
demerit, which is beyond space, time and sense-objects---That Brahman Thou Artmeditate on this
in your mind.
yatpara sakalavgagocara
gocara vimalabodhacakua |
uddhacidghanamandi vastu yad
brahma tattvamasi bhvaytmani || 255||

The Supreme Brahman which is beyond the range of speech, but known only through the eye of
pure-illumination, which is pure mass of Consciousness, which is a beginning less entity --- That
Brahman Thou Artmeditate on this in your mind.
abhirrmibhirayogi yogihdbhvita na karaairvibhvitam |

buddhyavedyamanavadyamasti yad

That which is untouched by the six waves of sorrow, which is realized in the heart of Yogis but which
95
cannot be grasped by the sense-organs, that which the intellect cannot know, which is of flawless
excellence ---That Brahman Thou Art meditate on this in your mind.
bhrntikalpitajagatkalraya
svraya ca sadasadvilakaam |
nikala nirupamnavaddhi yad

That which is the substratum of the universe and its various aspects which are all due to delusion,
which is its own support, which is other than the gross and the subtle, which has no parts and is truly
incomparable --- That Brahman Thou Art meditate on this in your mind.
janmavddhipariatyapakayavydhinanavihnamavyayam |
vivasyavavightakraa

That which is changeless and so free from birth, growth, development, decay, disease and death;
which is indestructible and is the cause of creation, maintenance, and dissolution of the universe --That Brahman Thou Art meditate on this in your mind.
astabhedamanapstalakaa
nistaragajalarinicalam |
nityamuktamavibhaktamrti yad

That which is free from all distinctions which is ever existent; which is calm like a wave-less ocean;
and eternally unconditioned and undivided---That Brahman Thou Art..meditate on this in your
mind.
ekameva sadanekakraa
krantaranirsyakraam |
kryakraavilakaa svaya
96

That which, even though one Reality, is the cause for the many, the cause that refutes all other
causes, which is distinct from causes and effects and self-existent --- That Brahman Thou Art
meditate on this in your mind.
nirvikalpakamanalpamakara
yatkarkaravilakaa param |
nityamavyayasukha nirajana

That which is free from duality; Infinite and Indestructible; distinct from perishable and
imperishable; Supreme and Eternal; permanent and indivisible Bliss; Untainted --- That Brahman
Thou Artmeditate on this in your mind.
yadvibhti sadanekadh bhramnnmarpaguavikriytman |

hemavatsvayamavikriya sad

That Reality which (though one) appears as many due to delusion --- though Itself always unchanged
--- assumes names and forms, qualities and changes, like gold which remains unchanged through all
its modifications --- That Brahman Thou Artmeditate on this in your mind.
yaccakstyanapara partpara
pratyagekarasamtmalakaam |
satyacitsukhamanantamavyaya

That beyond which there is nothing; which is beyond the beyond; the inmost Self of all; which is of
one essence; which is continuous Existence-Knowledge-Bliss; Infinite and Immutable --- That
97
Brahman Thou Art meditate on this in your mind.
uktamarthamimamtmani svaya
bhvayetprathitayuktibhirdhiy |
saaydirahita karmbuvat
tena tattvanigamo bhaviyati ||264||

One must meditate in ones mind, through the intellect, on the Truth conveyed above by means of
scriptural reasoning. By these means, one will realize Truth without any doubts, just like water in the
palm of ones hand.
*****

bala balavat cha kmargavivarjitam |

dharmviruddho bhteu kmo'smi
bharatarabha ||
Bhagavadgita (7.11)
Of the strong, I am the strength devoid of desire and attachment, and in (all) beings, I am the desire
unopposed to Dharma, O best among the Bharatas.
*****
98
VEDA MANTRAS
(gaapatyatharvaropaiat)
53.
MPB
54.
(laghunysaha)
55.
(r rudraprana)
56.
(camakaprana)
Page 348 in MPB
(puruasktam)
57.
Page 352 in MPB
Page 360 in MPB

Page 398 in MPB
(naryaasktam)
58.

(viusktam)
59.
(durgsktam)
60.
(rsktam)
61.
Page 400 in MPB
Page 402 in MPB

Page 409 in MPB
Page 403 in MPB
62.
(sanysasktam)
63.
(ivopsana mantr)
(mantrapupam)
64.
Page 168 in
Page 42 in MPB
Page 45 in MPB
Page 446 in MPB
- (taittiryopaniat -ka yajur)
65.
Page 17 in
MPB
(upaniadvkyni)
66.
i.
(a - ukla yajur)
-
ii.
- (mkya - atharvaa) Page 196, 197 in MPB
iii.
- (kena sma) Page 206 in MPB
iv.
(kaivalya - atharvaa) Page 312 in MPB
v.
- (mahnryaa - ka yajur) Page 38 in

MPB
99
Page 7, 8 in MPB
67.
(ivasakalpa)
Note: The following Mantras are prayers to the Lord and auto suggestions to the mind to have the
Shiva Sankalpa- right intention or an auspicious resolution. Swami eda Bharatis (founder of
Himalayan Institute of Yoga, Science and Philosophy) blogs on the Suktas are available at
http://www.swamivedablog.org/?p=828.
100
101
102
103
104
*****
68.

( ....) - malpakaraam /
/
puyhavcanam
105
*****

Bhagavad Gita (12.13)
adve sarvabhtn maitra karua eva

ca |
nirmamo nirahakra samadukhasukha
kam ||
He who hates no creature, who is friendly and compassionate to all, who is free from attachment and
egoism, balanced in pleasure and pain and forgiving (that person is dear to me).
*****
106
69.
107
(pacmtbhiecanamantr)
*****
70.
(sanysa
sktam)
*****
108
71.
(nti mantra)
:
: :
*****

svakhopaniad gt viornma
sahasrakam |
rudra ca paurua skta
nityamvartayet budha ||
The wise one should regularly (daily) recite the following:

1) Upanishad from one's own branch of Veda
2) Bhagavad Gita
3) Vishnu Sahasranamam
4) Shri Rudram and
5) Purusha Suktam.
*****
109

Stotra Mantra Sangraha

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ruti smti purn laya karulayam |

For Personal Use Only

(guru gta) selected verses ............................................................................................ 19

DEVI STOTRAS ......................................................................................................................... 32

(lalitpacakam) by Adi Shankara .................................................................. 33

by Adi Shankara ......................... 34

(mnkstotram) * Page 502 in MPB ........................................................ 37

(mahlakmyaakam) * Page 517 in MPB...............................................37

(tm rma loka) by Adi Shankara...........................................................49

SHIVA STOTRAS .......................................................................................................................54

(r dakimrti hynalok) .....................................................55

(ivnandalahar) by Adi Shankara (Selected verses) .....................................67

(ivottara atanmvali) ...............................................................77

(ivamnasapj) * Page 470 in MPB............................................................79

(r kailsapatiprrthan) * Page 471 in MPB ..................................... 79

subrahmaya bhujagam) by Adi Shankara ................................... 80

(par pj) by Adi Shankara ..................................................................................... 93

(viveka cmai - brahmabhvan) by Adi Shankara ............ 95

VEDA MANTRAS ...................................................................................................................... 99

(laghunysaha) Page 348 in MPB .................................................................... 99

(r rudraprana) Page 352 in MPB ............................................................... 99

(camakaprana) Page 360 in MPB ................................................................. 99

Page 402 in MPB ..................................................................... 99

Page 409 in MPB ...................................................................... 99

(ivopsana mantr) Page 45 in MPB .................................................. 99

Page 446 in MPB ................................................................... 99

- (mkya - atharvaa) Page 196, 197 in MPB .......................................99

- (kena sma) Page 206 in MPB ........................................................................99

Page 7, 8 in MPB ..............................................................99

iv. (kaivalya - atharvaa) Page 312 in MPB .....................................................99

- (mahnryaa - ka yajur) Page 38 in MPB ..............................99

(ivasakalpa) .................................................................................................. 100

(pacmtbhiecanamantr) ............................................................. 107

(nti mantra) .................................................................................................... 109

Puja Purification (Chitta Shuddi & Chitta Ekagrata) + Satsangam Vedanta

Consonants / Sonorants / Special Characters

Few Special Characters

gan tv gaapatigm havmahe kavi kavnmupamaravastamam |

gurave sarva lokn bhiaje

sarasvat namastubhya varade kmarpi

jnnandamaya deva nirmala

prta smarmi hdi sasphuradtmatatva

prtarbhajmi manas vacasmagamya

prtarnammi tamasa paramarkavara

naryaa padmabhuva vaia akti ca tatputra parara ca

sadiva samrambh akarcrya

ruti smti purn laya karulayam

akara akarcrya keava

apra karu sindhu jnadam

I repeatedly offer my prostrations to Guru Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati (Mahaswami of

bhrat karuptra bhrat

praamya iras deva gaurputra

prathama vakratua ca ekadanta

navama phlacandra ca daama tu

dvdaaitni nmani trisandhya ya

vidyrth labhate vidy dhanrth labhate

japedgaapatistotra abhirmsai phala

aebhyo brhmaebhyaca likhitv ya

oaaitni nmani ya pahet ruuydapi|

sydau brahma samyak pjito phala

tripurasya vadht prva ambun

mahiasya vadhe devy gaantha

trakasya vadht prva kumrea