SLOKAS ON LORD GANESH

Shuklaambara Dharam Vishnum

Shashi Varnam Chatur Bhujam
Prasanna Vadanam Dhyaayet
Sarva Vighna Upashaanthaye
Meaning: We meditate on Lord Ganesha - who is clad in white (representing purity), who is all pervading
(present everywhere), whose complexion is gray like that of ash (glowing with spiritual splendor), who has
four arms, who has bright countenance (depicting inner calm and happiness) and who can destroy all
obstacles (in our spiritual and worldly path).

Vakratunda Mahakaaya
Suryakoti Samaprabha
Nirvighnam Kuru Mey Deva
Sarva Kaaryeshu Sarvada
Meaning:The Lord with the curved trunk and a mighty body, who has the luster of a million suns, I pray to
thee Oh Lord, to remove the obstacles from all the actions I intend to perform.

Agajaanana Padmaarkam
Gajaananam Aharnisham
Anekadantham Bhaktaanaam
Ekadantam Upaasmahey
Meaning:I worship day and night that elephant faced Lord Ganesha who is like sun to the lotus face of
Mother Parvati. Giver of many boons, the single tusked Ganesh, I salute Thee to give e a boon.

Gajaananam Bhoota Ganaadhi Sevitam

Kapitta Jamboophaala Saara Bhakshitam
Umaasutam Shoka Vinaasha Kaaranam
Namaami Vighneswara Paada Pankajam
Meaning: The Lord with the elephant face, served by all the Ganas, One who takes as His food, the
essence of Kapitta and Jamboophala (these are two favorite fruits of Ganesh), son of Uma (Mother
Parvati), destroyer of misery of the devotees, controller of obstacles, we worship Your Lotus Feet.

Ganaanaam Twam Ganapathi Gam Havaamahe

Kavim Kaveenaam Upamasra Vastamam
Jyeshta Raajam Brahmanaam Brahmanaspatha
Aanashrunvanna Oothibhi Seedha Saadanam
Meaning: We invite You, the Lord of spiritual faith (of Lord Shiva). You are the wisest among the wise, the
best to be given as a standard of comparison. You are the senior Lord, Lord of the Vedic manthras,
listening to our prayers. Please visit our home with prosperous things and be seated here.

GANESH GAYATHRI
Tatpurushaaya Vidmahe
Vakratundaaya Dheemahe
Tanno Danthihi Prachodayaat
Meaning: We meditate on that super power, we invoke the single tusked boon giver, Ganesh.

GANESHA PANCHARATNAM
1. Mudakaraatha Modakam Sada Vimukti Saadhakam
Kalaadharaavatamsakam Vilasiloka Rakshakam
Anaaya Kaika Naayakam Vinasitebha Daityakam
Nataasubhasu Naashakam Namaami Tham Vinaayakam.
Meaning: I prostrate before Lord Vinaayaka who joyously holds modaka in His hand, who
bestows salvation, who wears the moon as a crown in His head, who is the sole leader of those
who lose themselves in the world. The leader of the leaderless who destroyed the elephant
demon called Gajaasura and who quickly destroys the sins of those who bow down to Him, I
worship such a Lord Ganesh.
2. Natetaraati Bheekaram Navoditaarka Bhaasvaram
Namat Suraari Nirjanam Nataadhi Kaapa Duddharam
Suresvaram Nidheesvaram Gajesvaram Ganeshvaram
Mahesvaram Samaasraye Paraatparam Nirantaram.
Meaning: I meditate eternally on Him, the Lord of the Ganas, who is frightening to those not
devoted, who shines like the morning sun, to whom all the Gods and demons bow, who removes
the great distress of His devotees and who is the best among the best.
3. Samasta Loka Samkaram Nirasta Daitya Kunjaram
Daredarodaram Varam Vare Bhavaktra Maksharam
Krupaakaram Kshamaakaram Mudaakaram Yasaskaram
Manaskaram Namaskrutaam Namaskaromi Bhaasvaram.
 Meaning: I bow down with my whole mind to the shining Ganapati who brings happiness to all
the worlds, who destroyed the demon Gajasura, who has a big belly, beautiful elephant face, who
is immortal, who gives mercy, forgiveness and happiness to those who bow to Him and who
bestows fame and a well disposed mind.
4. Akimchanaarti Marjanam Chirantanokti Bhaajanam
Puraari Poorva Nandanam Suraari Garva Charvanam
Prapancha Naasha Bheeshanam Dhananjayaadi Bhushanam
Kapola Daana Vaaranam Bhajaey Puraana Vaaranam.
Meaning: I worship the ancient elephant God who destroys the pains of the poor, who is the
abode of Aum, who is the first son of Lord Shiva (Shiva who is the destroyer of triple cities), who
destroys the pride of the enemies of the Gods, who is frightening to look at during the time of
world's destruction, who is fierce like an elephant in rut and who wears Dhananjaya and other
serpents as his ornaments.
5. Nitaantikaanta Dantakaanti Mantakaanta Kaatmajam
Achintya Rupa Mantaheena Mantaraaya Krintanam
Hrudantarey Nirantaram Vasantameva Yoginam
Tameka Danta Meva Tam Vichintayaami Santatam.
Meaning: I constantly reflect upon that single tusked God only, whose lustrous tusk is very
beautiful, who is the son of Lord Shiva, (Shiva, the God of destruction), whose form is immortal
and unknowable, who tears asunder all obstacles, and who dwells forever in the hearts of the
Yogis.
6. Mahaaganesa Pancharatnam Aadarena Yonvaham
Prajapati Prabhaatake Hrudi Smaran Ganesvaram
Arogatham Adoshataam Susaahitim Suputrataam
Samaahitaayu Rastabhootim Abhyupaiti Sochiraat.
Meaning: He who recites this every morning with devotion, these five gems about Lord Ganapati
and who remembers in his heart the great Ganesha, will soon be endowed with a healthy life free
of all blemishes, will attain learning, noble sons, a long life that is calm and pleasant and will be
endowed with spiritual and material prosperity.

TWELVE NAMES OF GANESHA

1. Pranamya Shirasa Devam
Gauriputram Vinaayakam
Bhakataavaasam Smare Nityam
Aayuh Kaamartha Siddhaye
Meaning: Every day, I bow down to that Lord, the son of Gowri, the Lord one who lives in the
heart of the devotees, blessing them always with good health and prosperity.
2. Prathamam Vakratundam Cha
Ekadantam Dviteeyakam
Thriteeyam Krishna Pingaaksham
Gajavaktram Chaturthakam
Meaning: Starting from here the twelve names of Ganesha are mentioned and he is worshipped
in those different forms. The first as the Lord with the curved trunk; second, as the one with only
one tusk, third, as the one with black (red/brown) eyes, fourth, as the one with giant structure.
3. Lambodaram Panchamaam Cha
Shashtam Vikatameva Cha
Saptamam Vighnaraajendram
Dhoomravarnam Tathaashtamam
Meaning: Fifth, as the one with a big (long) stomach, six, as the one with a huge body Seven, as
the remover of obstacles, eight, as the one with smoke gray color
4. Navamam Phaalachandram Cha
Dasamam Tu Vinaayakam
Ekaadasam Ganapatim
Dvaadasam Tu Gajaananam
Meaning: Ninth, as the one with moon on the front of His head, tenth, as the foremost leader,
eleventh, as the leader of the ganas, twelfth as the one with elephant face.
5. Dvaadasaitaani Naamaani
Trisandhyam Yah Pathernnarah
Na Cha Vighna Bhayam Tasya
Sarva Siddhikaram Prabho
Meaning: Any person, who remembers these twelve names of Ganesha, three times in a day, will
have all their obstacles and fear removed and will attain success. (This group of verses is said to
be sage Narada's offering to Lord Ganesh.)
SIXTEEN NAMES OF GANESHA
1. Sumukhascha Ekadanthascha
Kapilo Gajakarnakaha
Lambodarascha Vikato
Vighnaraajo Ganaadhipaa
Meaning: The various names and associated forms of God Ganesha are enumerated and need
to be meditated upon here - the one with an auspicious face, the single tusked Lord, the one who
is of red color, the one with the ears of an elephant, the one with a big stomach, the one with a
jovial disposition, the controller of obstacles, the Lord of the Ganas.
2. Dhoomaketur Ganaadhyashah
Phaalachandro Gajaanana
Vakratundo Shoorpakarno
Heyrambho Skandapoorvajaha
Meaning:The one of smoke gray color, the leader of the ganas, the one who has moon in the
front of his forehead, the elephant faced one, the one with a curved trunk (or broken tusk), the
one with big (basket like) ears, the one who is heroic like a buffalo, the elder brother of Skanda
(Skanda is another name for Lord Subrahmanya)
3. Shodashaitaani Namaani
Yah Pateth Srunuyaadapi
Vidyaarambhe Vivahe Cha
Praveshey Nirgamey Tatah
Sangraamey Sarva Kaaryeshu
Vighnas Tasya Na Jaayathe

Abheepsitaartha Siddhyartham
Poojitoya Surairapi
Sarva Vighna Chhido Tasmai
Sree Ganaadhipataye Namaha
Meaning:Whoever the one who recites and listens to these sixteen names at the beginning of
studies, at the time of marriage, while entering or departing a place, or at the battle field, all their
obstacles will be removed. Even the Gods worship Lord Ganesha to receive the fulfillment of their
actions. Oh Lord Ganesh, the One who has this power of destroying all the obstacles in the way
of the devotees, I prostrate before you.

Shri Maha Ganapathi Sthuthi

Suklam baratharam vishnum sasivarnam sathurbujam
Prasanna vadanam dyayeth sarva vignoba santhaye
Vakra thunda maha kaya soorya koti sama praba
Nirvignam kurume deva sarva kaaryeshu sarvadha
Gajananam, Bhootha Ganaathi Sevitham,
Kavitha Jambu Manasara Bakshitham
Uma sutham, shoka vinaasa haaranam,
Namaami Vigneshwara, paada pankajam
Agajaanana padmaarkam gajanana maharnisam
Anekadham dham bhakthanam ekadhantham upasmahe
Mooshika Vahana Modhaga Hasta
Shyamala Karna Vilambitha Sutra
Vamana Rupa Maheshwara Putra
Vigna Vinayaka Pada Namaste

Given by Avvaiyaar
Vaakundam, nalla manamundam, Maa malaraal
nokundam, Meni nudangaadu pookondu,
Thuppar thirumeni thumbikaiyaan paadam,
Thappamal saarvaar thamakku.
Slokas
Ganesh Sloka
Vakratunda Mahakaaya
Suryakoti Samaprabha
Nirvighnam Kuru Mey Deva
Sarva Kaaryeshu Sarvada
Meaning:The Lord with the curved trunk and a mighty body, who has the luster of a million
suns, I pray to thee Oh Lord, to remove the obstacles from all the actions I intend to perform.

Sarasvati Sloka
Ya Kundendu Tushaara Haara Dhavalaa
Ya Shubhra Vastraavrita
Ya Veena Vara Danda Manditakara
Ya Shveta Padmaasana
Ya Brahma Achyutaha Shankara Prabrithibhih
Devai Sadaa Poojitha
Saa Maam Paatu Sarasvathi Bhagavati
Nishyesha Jyaadyaapaha
Meaning: Oh Goddess Sarasvathi, who is fair as a jasmine flower, the moon or a snow flake, who is dressed in white
and whose hands are adorned by a veena, who is seated in a white lotus, to whom Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshvara
pray, please protect us.

Guru Sloka
Guru Brahma Gurur Vishnu
Guru Devo Maheshvaraha
Guru Saakshat Para Brahma
Tasmai Sree Gurave Namaha
Meaning:Guru is verily the representative of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. He creates, sustains
knowledge and destroys the weeds of ignorance. I salute such a Guru.

Asatho Maa
Asatho Maa Sath Gamaya
Thamaso Maa Jyothir Gamaya
Mrithyor Maa Amritham Gamaya
Meaning: Lead me from untruth to truth; Lead me from darkness to light, Lead me from death to
immortality.

Sarva Dharma Prayer

Om Tat Sat Sri Narayana Thoo,
Purushotthama Guru Thoo
Siddha Buddha Thoo,
Skanda Vinaayaka,
Savitha Paavaka Thoo (2x)
Brahma Mazda Thoo,
Yahva Shakthi Thoo,
Esu Pitha Prabhu Thoo
Rudhra Vishnu Thoo,
Ramakrishna Thoo,
Rahim Tao Thoo (2x)
Vasudeva Go Visvaroopa Thoo,
 Chidaananda Hari Thoo
Advitheeya Thoo, Akaala Nirbhaya
Aatmalinga Shiva Thoo (2x)
Meaning:
Om Thou art that, Thou art Narayana, God in the form of man;
Thou art the Embodiment of perfection and the perfect master.
Thou art enlightened Buddha;
Thou art Subrahmanya and Ganesha, the remover of obstacles;
Thou art the Sun-fire,
Thou art Brahma, the Creator; Mazda, the Great One;
Thou art Jehovah and the Divine Mother, the creative Energy.
O Lord! Thou art the Father of Jesus.
Thou art Rudhra, the Transformer, and Vishnu, the Preserver;
Thou art Rama and Krishna;
Thou art Rahim, all kindness, always giving and expanding; Thou art the Tao.
Thou art Vasudeva, the Sustenance of all, omnipotent and omnipresent;
Thou art Hari, Destroyer of illusion, the blissful Spirit.
Thou art unparalleled, beyond time and fearless of adversities;
Thou art Shiva, Creator of the lingam, Symbol of the formless Absolute.
 NAMES OF GANESH
Chapter summary
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"The four Ganesh incarnations during the Yuga
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"The eight incarnations of Ganesh
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"The twelve main names of Ganesh
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"The twenty one names of Ganesh
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"The thirty two names of Ganesh
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"The fifty one names of Ganesh
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"The litanies of one hundred and eight names
<CLASS="TEXTBOLD"Litany of one thousand names of Ganesh

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
The topic of the Ganesh names is nearly endless. Indeed, these names are supposed to reflect all the qualities, all the
powers of this beloved god. The Ganesh devotees think that these powers have no limitation. Although it's
impossible to give a comprehensive description on that subject, it looks really interesting to express some of the
Ganesh names. This overview allows the reader to get a rough idea about the "functions" of Ganesh.
The four Ganesh incarnations during the Yuga
According to the Ganesha Purâna, four Ganesh incarnations came on earth during the different periods (yuga), in
order to fight the devils. They are :
7. Mahotkata with ten arms, seated on a lion, shining like the sun, came during the Krita Yuga to kill the
demons Narântak and Devântak
8. White-colored Shri Mayureshvar with six arms, riding the peacock, faced the demon Sindhu during the
Treta Yuga
9. Red-colored Shri Gajânana with four arms, mounted on his rat, destroyed the demon Sindur during the
Dwapara Yuga
10. Dhûmraketu is the form of Ganesh who will come in the future; we are now living in the Kali Yuga. Two-
arms and smoke-colored Dhûmraketu will ride on a blue horse; he will fight all the devils to restore peace
and harmony in the world.
The eight incarnations of Ganesh
The Mudgala Purâna, is an eminent scripture dated of the 16 th century. It tells the story of the eight incarnations of
Ganesh. Let us describe them in brief :
6. Vakratunda, "the Lord with the curved trunk". He is represented seated on a lion. He came to struggle
against the devil Matsara, who is the symbol of jealousy.
7. Ekadanta, "the Lord who has only one tusk". exterminated Mada, the demon of drunkeness.
8. Mahodara, "the Lord who has a big belly", gives battle to Moha, the demon of illusion.
9. Gajânana, "the Lord with an elephant face", put Lobha, the demon of greed, to death .
10. Lambodara, "the Lord with a protuberant belly", masters Krodha, the demon of anger.
11. Vikata, "the misshapen", subdued Kâma, the demon of desire
Ekadanta, Mahodara, Gajânana, Lambodara and Vikata are represented mounted on a rat.
12. Under the form of Vighnarâja, "the Lord King of obstacles", lying on Shasha, the Snake of Eternity, Ganesh
destroyed Mama, the demon of ego.
13. Finally, the last Ganesh incarnation is Dhûmravarna, "the Lord with a tawny color", riding a mouse, who
got victory over Ahamkâra, the demon of self-infatuation.
These mythic forms demonstrate that Ganesh has the capacity to reduce all the human weaknesses, such as jealousy,
drunkeness, illusion, greed, anger, desire, egotism, self-infatuation (arrogance), which send the devotee away from
his path to god. We must notice that the battle against these ennemies of the human being are really the basis of the
sadhana for the spiritual seeker. But, for all that, the demons are not definitely destroyed. They are only under
control and the spiritual path only allows this result.
The twelve main names of Ganesh
The Ganesha Purâna, important text of the Gânapatya, gives a list of the twelve main names of the elephant-headed-
god. These names must be used before any ritual. They are the following :
4. Sumukha : "The very graceful Lord"
5. Ekadanta : "The Lord who has only one tusk"
6. Kapila : "The Lord of a tawny color"
7. Gajakarna : "The Lord with elephant ears"
8. Lambodara : "The Lord with a prominent belly"
9. Vikata : "The Misshapen"
10. Vighnanâsaka : "The Lord destroyer of obstacles"
11. Ganâdhipa : "The Lord Protector of the Gana"
12. Dhûmraketu : "The Lord of a smoky color" with two arms riding on a blue horse, Ruler of the Kali Yuga
13. Ganâdhyaksha : "The Minister of the Gana"
14. Bhâlachandra : "The Lord who wears the moon crescent on his head"
 15. Gajânana : "The Lord with an elephant face".
We notice that the incarnations 2, 4, 5, 6, are also found in this list.
Of course, in this Purâna, we meet many other Ganesh names. There is also litany of one thousand names of
Ganesh… (see below).
The twenty one names of Ganesh
During a pûjâ, offerings of flowers and rice accompany the 21 Ganesh names (eka vishanti nama) as follow :
1. Vighnarâja : "The King of obstacles"
2. Gajânana : "The Lord who has an elephant face"
3. Lambodara : "The Lord with a prominent belly"
4. Shivatmaja (son of Shiva)
5. Vakratunda : "The Lord with a twisted trunk"
6. Supakarna
7. Ganeshvara : "The Lord of the Gana"
8. Vighnanashin : "The Destroyer of Obstacles"
9. Vikata : "The Misshapen"
10. Vamana : "The Dwarf"
11. Sarvadeva
12. Sarvadukhavinâshi
13. Vighnarhartr : "The Lord who cancels the obstacles"
14. Dhûmrâja
15. Sarvadevâdhideva
16. Ekadanta : "The Lord who has only one tusk"
17. Krishnapingala : "The blue and dark Lord"
18. Bhâlachandra : "The Lord who carries the crescent of moon on his head"
19. Gananâtha : "The supreme Chief of the Gana"
20. Shankarasunav : "The son of Shankara"
21. Anangapujita : "The formless Lord"
The thirty two names of Ganesh
The Srîtattvanidhi is a document written in the 19 th century in Karnataka, under the guidance of the Mysore
Mahârâja. It compiles and describes in detail the thirty two main forms of Ganesh.
1. Bâla Ganapati : "Ganapati the Child". He has four arms. His hands bear a mango, a small branch of a
mango-tree, a stem of sugar-cane and a cake.
2. Taruna Ganapati : "Ganapati the Teenager". Her has eight arms. His hands expose the single tusk, the
elephant goad, the kapittha fruit, the sugar-cane, the noose, the paddy ear, the apûpa cake.
3. Bhakta Ganapati : "Ganapati, the Perfect Worshippert". He has four arms. His hands show a banana, the
small branch of a mango-tree, the bowl of sugared rice (payâsapâtra).
4. Vîra Ganapati : "Ganapati the Hero". He has sixteen arms. He wears the trident, the vampire, the two-head
club, the axe, the arrow, the elephant goad, the sword, the disc, the pestle, the club, the snake, the spear, the
banner, the bow, the noose and the small damaru drum.
5. Shakti Ganapati : "Ganesh embracing the goddess Success; - Pushti". He has four arms. His low right hand
shows the movement of lack of fear (abhaya); the two others wear the elephant goad and the noose; the last
hand, who holds a lemon, embraces the goddess. With the top of his trunk, Shakti Ganapati holds a cake.
6. Ucchista Ganapati : "Ganapati devouring the remnants of the meal". He has six arms. His hands show the
rosary, the pomegranate, the paddy ear (shalyagra), the nocturnal lotus, the lute (vîna) ; his sixth hand
sometimes bears a guñja berry, embraces the goddess. The Ucchista Ganapati trunk is placed on the
goddesse's thigh.
7. Siddhi Ganapati : "Ganapati bestowing success", fond of the sesame cake. He has four arms. His hands
hold the axe, the noose, the sugar-cane stem and the mango.
8. Dvija Ganapati : "Ganapati the Twice-Born". He has four heads and four arms. His hands hold the rosary,
the washing pot (kamandalu), the walking-stick of an ascetic or the ritual spoon (sruk) and the manuscript
on palm-leaves (pustaka).
9. Vighna Ganapati : "Ganapati removing the obstacles". He has eight arms. His hands hold the single tusk,
the disc, the arrow-flowers, the hatchet, the conch, the sugar-cane stem, the noose, the elephant goad. With
the tip of his trunk, he carries a bunch of flowers (pushapamañjari).
10. Kshipra Ganapati : "Ganapati the Speedyle". He has four arms. His hands show the single tusk, the
elephant goad, the creeper of the votive tree (kalpalatâ), the noose. With the end of his trunk, he carries the
stone cup full of precious stones (ratnakumbha).
11. Heramba Ganapati : "The five-heads Ganapati riding the lion". He has ten arms. His first hand shows the
movement of lack of fear(abhaya), the others hold the rosary, the citron, the club, the elephant goad, the
noose, the axe, the kadabu cake, the single tusk; his tenth hand shows the movement which bestows boons
(varada).
12. Lakshmî Ganapati : "Ganapati the Fortunate" embracing his wives Siddhi and Buddhi. He has eight arms.
His hands hold a pomegranate, a sword, the the creeper of the votive tree, the elephant goad, the parrot, the
noose, the jewels pot; his eighth hand bestows boons (varada).
13. Mahâganapati : "The Great Ganapati" with the goddess Wealth - Pushti. He has ten hands. His hands hold
the single tusk, the pomegranate, the club, the sugar-cane bow, the disc, the conch, the noose, the nocturnal
lotus, the paddy ear, the jewels pot.
14. Vijaya Ganapati : "Ganapati the Victorious", riding a rat which trots at a smart pace. He has four arms. His
hands hold the single tusk, the elephant goad, the noose and the mango.
15. Nrtya Ganapati : "The Dancing Ganapati" under the boon-tree. He has four arms. His hands hold the single
tusk, the elephant goad, the noose, the axe (parashu) or the hatchet (kuthâra). The dhyâna sloka specifies
that one of the four hands can show a cake apûpa.
16. Ûrdhva Ganapati : "The Rising Ganapati", seated with his Shakti on his left thigh. He has eight arms. His
hands hold the single tusk, the arrow-flower, the daylight lotus, the blue lily (kalhara), the sugar-cane bow,
the paddy ear, the club; his last hand claps the goddess. The extremity of his trunk is rolled around the right
breast of the goddess.
17. Vara Ganapati : "The Delightful Ganapati" with the goddess Wealth - Pushti, seated on his left thigh. He
has four arms. His first three hands hold the elephant goad, the skull filled with liquor (madhumatkapâla)
and the noose. The fourth hand creeps between the thighs of the goddess who holds a lotus and a banner.
18. Ekâkshara Ganapati : "Ganapati identified with the word OM". He has four arms. His hands hold the single
tusk, the elephant goad, the noose and the cake modaka. Somtimes, he wears, with the extremity of his
trunk (bîjapûra).
19. Tryakshara Ganapati : "The Three-letters A+U+M Ganapati". He has four ars. His hands hold the single
tusk, the elephant goad, the noose and the mango. He holds the cake modaka with the trunk end.
20. Kshipraprasâda Ganapati : "Ganapati bestowing quickly his mercy". He has six arms. His hands hold the
single tusk, the elephant goad, the lotus, the creeper of the votive tree (kalpalatâ), the noose, the lemon.
21. Haridrâ Ganapati : "The curcuma-colored Ganapati". He has four arms. His hands hold the single tusk, the
elephant goad, the noose and the cake modaka.
22. Ekadanta Ganapati : "The Single Tusk Ganapati". He has four arms. His hands hold a large tusk, a rosary, a
hatchet (kuthâra) and the small ball of sweets (laddu).
23. Shristi Ganapati : "Ganapati the Creator", riding a big rat. His has four arms. His hands hold the single tusk,
the elephant goad, the noose and the mango.
24. Uddanda Ganapati : "Ganapati the Unchained", with his Shakti seated on his left thigh. He has twelve arms.
His hands hold the single tusk, the club, the nocturnal lotus, the noose, the paddy ear, the elephant goad, the
washing pot (kamandalu), the sugar-cane bow, the disc, the daylight lotus, the conch and the pomegranate.
His trunk is placed on the top of the goddesse's breast or, sometimes, maintains a jewels pot (manikumbha).
25. Sankatahara Ganapati : "Ganapati seated on a large lotus with his Shakti "; he removes the impediments.
He has four arms. His first hand show the movement to bestow boons (varada) ; the three others hold the
elephant goad, the noose and the bowl of sugared rice (pâyasapâtra).
26. Dundhi Ganapati : "The Ganapati which we have to look for". He has four arms. His hands hold the single
tusk, the rosary, the hatchet (kuthâra) and the pot of jewels (ratnapâtra).
27. Trimukha Ganapati : "The Tree-Head Ganapati". He has six arms. His first hand shows the movement
which gives boons (varada), the four others hols a very sharp elephant goad, a rudrâksha grain of the rosary,
the noose and the ambrosia pot (amritakumbha) ; the sixth hand removes the fear (abhaya).
28. Simha Ganapati : "The Lion-face Ganapati". He has eight arms. His first hand shows the movement which
bestow boons (varada). The following hold the disc, the bunch of flowers, the lute (vîna), thez daylight
lotus, the jewels pot, the creeper of the votive tree; the last hand shows the movement which removes fear
(abhaya).
29. Yoga Ganapati : "Ganapati the Ascetic". He has four arms. His legs are surrounded with the meditation
girdle (yogapatta). His hands hold the rosary, the elbow-rest or the walking-stick, the noose and the sugar-
cane.
30. Durgâ Ganapati : "Ganapati similar the the Goddess Durgâ". He has eight arms. His hands hold the single
tusk, the elephant goad, the arrow, the rosary, the noose, the bow, the creeper of the votive tree (kalpalatâ)
and the rose-apple fruit.
31. Rnamocaka Ganapati : "Ganapati who discharges from debts". He has four arms. His hands hold the single
tusk, the elephant goad, the noose and the rose-apple fruit.
Sloka means verse. Prayers are in the form of verses to make them musical and also to be set to a
standard. Prarthana Sloka is therefore Prayer Verse.

These verses are generally directed towards a God or Goddess. The person who chants these powerful
verses invokes the respective God or Goddess referred to in the verse. By doing with absolute faith and
concentration, the person concerned will be able to achieve a steady and peaceful mind full of devotion.

Prarthana Sloka is a combination of two Sanskrit words. Prarth is the root of a verb which means "to
beg". Prarthana is the noun formation from this root generally meaning "making prayer" Prayers which
include a request are Prarthanas.

Prarthana can also be made in the form of sentences. The Ashtothara satha Namani meaning One
hundred and eight names is Prarthana in prose (sentences). Every God or Goddess has separate
Ashtothara satha Namani. There are even Thrisathi Namani (300 names) and also Ashtothara Sahasra
Namani (1008 names). Instead of chanting Prarthana Slokas one can recite Ashtothara Namani and
make prayers. But what is most important is absolute faith and concentration. If one can understand the
real meaning of the prayers, it will facilitate concentration.

Sthotras are also verses of prayers. The word Sthotra comes from the verb Sthut. It means "to praise".
Very similar to Ashtotra satha Namani etc. Sthotras also are for a particular God or Goddess. Sthotras are
directed to a God or Goddess like a stream that flows towards a destination. Sthotra is a hymn or
composition in praise of a God or Goddess. By chanting the Sthotras, the mind of the person is carried
away towards the form of the God or Goddess in an attempt to visualize same.

Prarthana Slokas have a request to God. Sthothra Slokas are mostly making a description of God. They
simply say I salute the God who is described as having certain forms etc.

Vedic Verses are more powerful than Prarthanas or Sthothras. Vedic Verses have to be chanted
according to specified rules of raising or lowering the voice. It is intended to cause certain vibrations
which (if correctly recited) could physically produce results. Vedas are taught from Guru (Teacher) to
Manava (student) orally. The Manava later with accomplishment of wisdom becomes a Guru and teaches
Vedas to his Manavas. Vedas cannot be learnt simply by reading from books, without directives from a
Guru.
Ganesh | Guru | Shiva | Sakthi | Vedic | Prarthana

Ganesh
Gajaananam Bhoota Ganaadhi Sevitam
Kapitta Jamboo phaala Saara Bhakshitam
Umaasutam Shoka Vinaasha Kaaranam
Namaami Vigneswara Paada Pankajam Vakrathunda Mahakaaya
Suryakoti Samaprabha
Nirvighnam Kuru Mey Deva
Sarva Kaaryeshu Sarvada Suklaambara Dharam Vishnum
Sasi Varnam Chathur Bhujam
Prasanna Vadanam Dhyaayet
Sarva Vigna Upashaanthaye

Guru
Guru Brahma Gurur Vishnu
Guru Devo Maheshwaraha
Guru Saakshat Para Brahma
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha Akhanda Mandalaakaaram
Vyaaptam Yenam charaacharam
Tatpadam Darshitam Yena
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Agnyaana Timiraandhasya
Gnyaana Anjana Shalaakayaa
Chakshuhu Unmeelitam Yenam
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Sthaavaram Jangamam Vyaaptam
Yatkinchit Sa Charaacharam
TatPadam Darshitam Yena
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Chinmayam Vyaapi Yatsarvam
Trailokya Sa charaacharam
TatPadam Darshitam Yena
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Sarva Sruti Shiroratna
Viraajita Padambujaha
Vedaantaambuja Sooryo Yah
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Chaitanyah Shaashwatah Shaantho
Vyomaateeto Niranjanaha
Bindu Naada Kalaateetaha
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Gnyaana Shakti Samaaroodah
Tatwa Maalaa Vibhooshitaha
Bhukti Mukti Pradaaneyna
Tasmai sri Gurave Namaha. Aneka Janma Sampraapta
Karma Bandha Vidaahine
Atma Gnyaana Pradaaneyna
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Shoshanam Bhava Sindhoscha
Gnyaapanam Saarasampadaha
Guror Padodakam Samyak
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Na Gurur Adhikam Tatwam
Na Gurur Adhikam Tapaha
Tatwa Gnyaanaat Param Naasti
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Mannaathah Sri Jaganaatho
Madguruhu Sri Jagad Guruhu
Madh Atma Sarva Bhootaatma
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Guroraadi Anaadischa
Guruh Parama Daivatam
Guruh Parataram Naasti
Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha. Brahmaanandham Parama Sukhadam
Kevalam Jnaana Murthim
Dhvandhvaa Theetham Gagana Sadhrisham
Tathvam Asyaadi Lakshyam
Ekam Nithyam Vimalam Achalam
Sarvadhee Saakshi Bhutham
Bhavaatheetham Thriguna Rahitham
Sadhgurum Tham Namaami. Dhyaanamoolam Gurur Moorthih
Poojamoolam Guruh Padam
Mantramoolam Gurur Vaakyam
Moksha Moolam Guru Krupa.

Shiva
Mrutyunjayaaya Rudraaya
Neelakantaaya Shambhave
Amriteshaaya Sarvaaya
Mahadevaaya Te Namaha Gauri Vallabha Kaamaarey
Kaala Koota Vishaasana
Maam Uddhhare Padambhoje
Tripura Agnyata Kaantaka Vande Deva Umaa Pathim Suragurum
Vande Jagat Kaaranam
Vande Pannaga Bhooshanam Mruga Dharam
Vande Pashoonam Pathim
Vande Soorya Shashanka Vahni Nayanam
Vande Mukunda Priyam
Vande Bhakta Jana Ashrayam Cha Varadam
Vande Shivam Shankaram

PANCHAKSHARA STHOTRA

Nagendra Haaraaya Thrilochanaaya

Bhasmaanga Raagaaya Maheshvaraaya
Nityaaya Suddhaaya Digambaraaya
Tasmai Nakaaraaya Namah Shivaaya

Mandaakini Salila Chandana Chaarthitaaya

Nandeesvara Pramatha Naatha Mahesvaraaya
Mandaara Pushpa Vahu Pushpa Supoojitaaya
Tasmai Makaaraaya Namah Shivaaya

Shivaaya Gauri Vadana Aravinda

Sooryaaya Dakshaadhvara Naashakaaya
Sree Neelakantaaya Vrisha Dhvajaaya
Tasmai Shikaaraaya Namah Shivaaya

Vasishta Kumbhodbhava Gautamaaya

Muneendra Devaarchita Sekharaaya
Chandraarka Vaishvaanara Lochanaaya
Tasmai Vakaaraaya Namah Shivaaya

Yajna Swaroopaaya Jataadharaaya

Pinaaka Hasthaaya Sanaatanaaya
Divyaaya Devaaya Digambaraaya
Tasmai Yakaraaya Namah Shivaaya

Panchaaksharam Idam Punyam

Yah Pateth Shiva Sannidhau
Shivaloka Mavaapnothee
Shivena Saha Modate

LINGAASHTAKAM

Brahma Muraari Suraarchita Lingam

Nirmala Bhashita Shobhita Lingam
Janmaja Dukha Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Devamuni Pravaraarchita Lingam

Kaamadaham Karunaakara Lingam
Raavana Darpa Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sada Shiva Lingam

Sarva Sugandha Sulepitha Lingam

Buddhi Vivardhana Kaarana Lingam
Siddha Suraasura Vanditha Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Kanaka Mahaamani Bhushitha Lingam

Phanipathi Veshtitha Shobhitha Lingam
Daksha Suyajna Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Kumkuma Chandana Lepitha Lingam

Pankaja Haara Sushobhitha Lingam
Sanchitha Paapa Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Devaganaarchitha Sevitha Lingam

Bhaavair Bhakti Bhirevacha Lingam
Dinakara Koti Prabhakara Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Ashta Dalopari Veshtitha Lingam

Sarva Samudbhava Kaarana Lingam
Ashta Daridra Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Suraguru Suravara Pujitha Lingam

Suravana Pushpa Sadaarchitha Lingam
Paraatparam Paramatmaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Sakthi
Om Sarvamangala Mangalye
Shive Sarvarthasadhike
Saranye Triambake Gauri
Narayani Namostu Te

Srstisthitivinasanam
Saktibhute Sanatani
Gunastraye Gunamaye
Narayani Namo'stu Te

Saranagata-dinarta
Paritrana-parayane
Sarvasyarti-hare Devi
Narayani Namostu Te

Samudra Vasane Devi,

Parvata Stana Mandite
Visnu Patnim Namastubhyam,
Padasparsa Ksamasva Me

Namaste' stu Mahamaye

Sripithe Surapujite
Samkhacakragadahaste
Sri Mahalakshmi Namostute

SOUNTHARYALAHARI
Shiva Sakthya Yuktho Yathi Bhavathi Sakthaha Prabhavidum
Na Chethevam Devo Na Khalu Kuchalah Sbanthi thumapi
Adhas Dvam Aarathyam Harihara Virignathibrapi
Prananthum Sthothum Va Kathamakrutha Punyah Prabhavathi

Vedic Sloka

Ganaa naam Twa Ganapatim Havaamahe

Kavim Kaveenaam Upamasra Vastamam
Jyeshta Raajam Brahmanaam Brahmanaspatha
Aanashrunvann Oothibhi Seedha Saadanam

Aum Saha Naavavathu Sahanau Bhunaktu

Saha Veeryam Kara Vaavahai
Tejasvi Naavadheetamastu Maa Vidwishaavahai
Aum Shantih Shantih Shantihi

Aum Poornamadah Poornamidam

Poornaath Poornam Udachyathe
Poornasya Poornamaadaaya
Poornameva Vasishyathe

Aum Bhadram Karnebhihi Srunuyaama Devaaha

Bhadram Pashyemaa Kshibhirya Jatraaha
Sthirai Rangai Stushtuvaamsa Stanoobhihi
Vyashema Devahitam Yadaayuhu
Aum Shanti Shanti Shaantihi

Sarve Sukhinah Santhu

Sarve Santhu Niraamayaah
Sarve Bhadraani Pashyantu
Maa Kaschid Dukhabhaag Bhavet
Aum Shanti Shaanti Shantihi

Asatoma Sadgamaya
Thamaso Maa Jyothir Gamaya
Mrithyor Maa Amrutham Gamaya
Aum Shaanti Shaanti Shaantihi

Shaanti Manthra

Aum Dyauh Saantir Antareeksham Shaantih

Prithvi Saantir Aapah Saantihr Oshathaya Shaantih
Vanaspatayah Saantir Visvedevaah Saantih Brahma Shaantih
Sarvam Saantih Saantih Reva Shaantihi

Prarthana
Morning Prayer

Karaagre vasate Lakshmi

Karamadhye Saraswati
Karamoole tu Govinda
Prabhaate karadarshanam
Meal Prayer

Harirdaata Harirbhokta
Harirannam Prajaapatih
Harirviprashareerastu
Bhoonkte Bhojayate Harih

Brahmarpanam Brahmahavir
Brahniagnau Brahmanahutam
Brahmaiva Tena Gantavyam
Brahmakarma Samadhina
Aham Vaishwanaro Bhutva
Praninam Dehamaashritah
Praanapana Samaayuktah
Pachamyannam Chaturvidham

Gayatri Mantra

Aum Bhuhr Bhuvah Svah

Tat Savitur Varenyum
Bhargo Devasya Dheemahe
Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat

Night Prayer for Forgivenes

Kara-Charana-Kritam
Vaak-Kaayajam karmajam Vaa
Shravana-Nayanajam Vaa
Maanasam Vaa Aparaadham
Vihitamavihitam Vaa
Sarvametat Kshamasva
Jaya Jaya Karunaabdhe
Shree Mahadeva Shambho

Common Prayers

Twameva Maataa Cha Pitaa Twameva

Twameva Bandhuscha Sakhaa Twameva
Twameva Vidhyaa Dravinam Twameva
Twameva Sarvam Mama Deva Deva

Om Sarve Vai Sukhinah Santu

Sarve Santu Niraamayaah
Sarve Bhadraani Pashyantu
Maa Kaschid Dukhamaapnuyaat
Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih

Asato Maa Sadgamaya

Tamaso Maa Jyotirgamaya
Mrutyormaa Amritam Gamaya
Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih

Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu

Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu
Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu