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Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam
Krishna Mantra sanskrit

Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam

Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam is an eight-verse Sanskrit devotional hymn that celebrates Lord Krishna's divine interventions while expressing unconditional surrender to his grace. Each verse employs a sophisticated poetic device—prefixing Krishna's protective actions with names derived from those he protected or defeated—to illustrate his multifaceted compassion and cosmic power. Every stanza concludes with the refrain 'Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama' (Lord Krishna, you are my refuge), anchoring the devotee's complete surrender. The verses recount Krishna's protection of Arjuna, his destruction of demons including Kansa and Putana, his nurturing of beloved devotees like Sudama, and his sovereignty over all existence. The eighth verse promises that sincere reciters attain Krishna's grace and dwell eternally in Gokula, witnessing his divine pastimes with the gopis.

This ashtakam embodies sharanagati—the philosophy of unconditional surrender central to Krishna-centered bhakti (devotional practice). In the Bhagavad Gita (18.66), Krishna declares: 'Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me; I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.' Sharana Ashtakam transforms this teaching into lived experience, inviting the devotee to recognize Krishna's protection through historical and mythological examples. Each verse encapsulates Krishna's dual nature: destroyer of asuras (demons) and nurturer of sincere hearts. By invoking Krishna through his protective deeds rather than abstract attributes, the chanter acknowledges his supremacy while developing intimate personal relationship. The mantra reflects the Bhagavata Purana's teaching that devotion (bhakti) is the highest path to liberation, surpassing knowledge and action.

Chant Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam during brahma muhurta (early dawn, two hours before sunrise) or evening sandhya (twilight worship) for optimal spiritual resonance. Recite with devotional focus, contemplating each verse's meaning rather than mechanical repetition. This mantra proves especially potent during personal crises, spiritual uncertainty, or when seeking divine guidance. Even a single sincere recitation with heartfelt surrender invokes Krishna's protective grace. For daily practice, commit to the complete ashtakam or concentrate on individual verses that resonate with your spiritual needs. Approach with humility and faith, allowing the words to deepen your experiential connection with Krishna's presence.

Curated by The Mahakatha Team · Original Composition: Mahakatha · Lyric: Traditional / Vaishnava

Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam

Krishna · Preview · 2:00

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Lyrics

Sanskrit / English Russian Bengali Kannada Tamil Spanish German Telugu Hindi
1

द्विदलिकृतद्रिक्स्वाय्य: पन्नगिकृतपन्नग: | कृषिकृतकृषानुश्च श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Dvidalikritadriksvaasyah Pannagikritapannagah Krishikritakrishaanushcha Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

2

फलिकृतफलार्थि च कुस्सितिकृतकौरव: | निर्वातिकृतवातारि: श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Phalikritaphalaarthi Cha Kussitikritakauravah Nirvaatikritavaataarih Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

3

कृतार्थिकृतकुन्तिज: प्रपूतिकृतपूतना: | कलङ्किकृतकंसादि: श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Kritaarthikritakuntijah Prapootikritapootanah Kalankikritakamsaadih Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

4

सुखिकृतसुदामा च शङ्करिकृतशङ्कर: | सीतिकृतसरिन्नाथ: श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Sukhikritasudaamaa Cha Shankarikritashankarah Sitikritasarinnaathah Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

5

चलिकृतबलिद्यौर्यो निधनिकृतधेनुक: | कन्दर्पिकृतकुब्जादि: श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Chalikritabalidyauryo Nidhanikritadhenukah Kandarpikritakubjaadih Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

6

महेन्द्रिकृतमाहेय: शिथिलकृतमैथिल: | आनन्दिकृतनन्दाद्य: श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Mahendrikritamaaheyah Shithilakritamaithilah Aanandikritanandaadyah Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

7

वरािकृतराकेशो विपक्षिकृतराक्षस: | सन्तोषिकृतसद्भक्त: श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Varaakikritaraakesho Vipakshikritaraakshasah Santoshikritasadbhaktah Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

8

जरिकृतजरासन्ध: कामलिकृतकार्मुक: | प्रभ्रष्टिकृतभीष्मादि: श्रीकृष्ण शरणं मम ||

Jarikritajaraasandhah Kamalikritakaarmukah Prabhrashtikritabhishmaadih Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama

9

श्रीकृष्ण: शरणं मामष्टकमिदं प्रोत्थाय य: सम्पठेत् | स श्रीगोकुलनायकस्य पदवी संयाति भूमितले || पश्यत्येव निरन्तरं तरनिजातिरस्थकेली प्रभो: | सम्प्राप्नोति तदीयतां प्रतिदिनं गोपीशतैरावृतां ||

Shrikrishnah Sharanam Mamaashtakamidam Protthaaya Yah Sampathet Sa Shrigokulanaayakasya Padavi Samyaati Bhoomitale Pashyatyeva Nirantaram Taranijaatirasthakeli Prabhoh, Sampraapnoti Tadiyataam Pratidinam Gopishatairaavritaam

Word-by-Word Meaning

Sanskrit Meaning
Dvidalikritadriksvaasyah One who made the two demons (Dvalika) into his eye-sport; refers to Krishna's playful destruction of demons.
Pannagikritapannagah One who made serpents (pannaga) into objects of his play; refers to Krishna subduing Kaliya the serpent.
Krishikritakrishaanushcha One who made the earth (krishi) dark/thin; refers to Krishna's cosmic form or his lightening of the earth's burden.
Shri Auspiciousness, prosperity, or divine radiance; an honorific title of respect.
Krishna The dark or black one; the eighth avatar of Vishnu, the divine cowherd of Vrindavan.
Sharanam Refuge, shelter, or sanctuary; implies taking shelter at the feet of the divine.
Mama My, mine; the possessive pronoun in first person singular.
Phalikritaphalaarthi One who made the fruit-desirer (phala-arthi) into his object; refers to those who desire the fruits of actions.
Cha And; a conjunctive particle used for coordination.
Nirvaatikritavaataarih One who made the wind-like (or movement-related) into his object of play.
Kritaarthikritakuntijah One who fulfilled the desires of Kunti (mother of the Pandavas); refers to Krishna's devotion to his aunt.
Prapootikritapootanah One who made the demoness Putana (the poisoner) into his plaything; refers to Krishna killing Putana as an infant.
Kalankikritakamsaadih One who made Kamsa (the demon king) and his associates into objects of destruction.
Sukhikritasudaamaa One who brought joy to Sudama; refers to Krishna's friendship with the poor Brahmin Sudama.
Shankarikritashankarah One who made Shankara (Shiva) into his devotee; refers to Krishna's supremacy even over Shiva.
Nidhanikritadhenukah One who made the demon Dhenuka (the ass-demon) into his conquest.
Kandarpikritakubjaadih One who made Kandarpa (cupid) and the hunchbacked Kubja into his objects of grace.
Mahendrikritamaaheyah One who made Mahendra (Indra) and his associates into his subjects.
Aanandikritanandaadyah One who brought bliss to Nanda (his foster father) and his associates.
Vipakshikritaraakshasah One who made the enemies (Rakshasas) and opposition into his conquests.
Santoshikritasadbhaktah One who made the virtuous devotees content and satisfied through his grace.
Prabhrashtikritabhishmaadih One who made Bhishma and others abandon their positions or pride.
Shrikrishnah Sri Krishna; the blessed divine form of Krishna.
Mamaashtakamidam This eight-verse prayer of mine; the collection of eight verses dedicated to Krishna.
Yah Who, which; the relative pronoun in masculine singular nominative.
Sampathet Recites, reads, or chants; from the root path meaning to read or recite.
Sa He, that; the demonstrative pronoun in masculine singular.
Shrigokulanaayakasya Of Sri Krishna, the lord of Gokul; the divine master of the cowherd community.
Padavi The state, condition, or realm; refers to Krishna's abode or spiritual realm.
Samyaati Attains, reaches, or obtains; from the root yaa meaning to go or obtain.
Bhoomitale On the earth; in the terrestrial world or realm.
Pashyatyeva Sees, perceives, or witnesses; indeed observes or experiences.
Nirantaram Continuously, ceaselessly, without interruption; perpetually.
Prabhoh Of the Lord; the genitive singular form referring to Krishna as the Supreme Lord.
Sampraapnoti Obtains, achieves, or attains completely; from the root pra meaning to gain fully.
Tadiyataam His state of being, his nature, or his devotional service; the condition of being his.
Pratidinam Every day, daily; each successive day.
Gopishatairaavritaam Surrounded by the gopis (cowherd girls); Krishna's divine realm surrounded by his devotees.

How to Chant Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam

  1. 1

    Find a quiet, clean space

    Sit in a comfortable, undisturbed environment. Face east or north if possible. You may light incense or a candle to set a contemplative atmosphere.

  2. 2

    Settle into a comfortable posture

    Sit cross-legged on the floor or upright in a chair. Keep the spine erect and place the hands on the knees with palms facing upward.

  3. 3

    Take three cleansing breaths

    Inhale slowly through the nose, hold briefly, and exhale completely. Repeat three times to calm the mind and prepare for mantra recitation.

  4. 4

    Begin chanting Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam

    Chant the mantra clearly and with devotion — aloud, in a whisper, or silently. Use a mala (108 beads) to count repetitions. Aim for a consistent, unhurried rhythm throughout the session.

  5. 5

    Rest in stillness

    After completing your chanting, sit quietly for two to five minutes. Allow the vibration of the mantra to settle within. Close the practice with a moment of gratitude.

Benefits of Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam

  • Invokes Krishna's divine protection from inner and outer adversities, shielding sincere devotees from harm and negative influences through unconditional surrender.

    Source: Bhagavata Purana (10.1-3)

  • Deepens intimate spiritual connection with Krishna, transforming abstract devotion into lived experience of divine presence and personal relationship with the Supreme.

    Source: Bhagavad Gita (18.65-66)

  • Cultivates sharanagati (complete surrender), dissolving ego-centered resistance and creating profound inner peace through acceptance of divine will and grace.

    Source: Brahma Sutras (1.1.1); Bhakti Sutras of Narada

  • Purifies the mind and heart through continuous recitation, removing negative vasanas (mental impressions) and elevating consciousness toward liberation.

    Source: Upanishads (Katha Upanishad 1.3.13); Maitri Upanishad (6.34)

  • Grants Krishna's blessings for accelerated spiritual progress by aligning the devotee's personal desires with divine purpose and hastening moksha (liberation).

    Source: Bhagavata Purana (11.12.6); Traditional practice

  • Heals emotional and spiritual wounds through transformative faith, providing solace during grief, loss, confusion, and periods of spiritual darkness.

    Source: Traditional practice; Bhagavata Purana (12.3.24)

Deity Krishna
Composition Mahakatha (Original) · Traditional / Vaishnava (Lyric)
Also called Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam · Krishna Sharana Ashtakam · Sri Krishna Sharanagati Ashtakam
Krishna also known as Govinda · Madhava · Kesava · Vasudeva · Muralidhara · Gopala · Hari

Story & Symbolism

Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam originates from medieval Sanskrit bhakti literature, flourishing within Krishna-centered Vaishnava traditions that emphasized unconditional devotion (bhakti) and surrender (sharanagati) as supreme spiritual paths. The ashtakam synthesizes profound teachings from the Bhagavata Purana (especially the 10th Skanda describing Krishna's divine pastimes) and the Bhagavad Gita's philosophy of surrender into eight memorable verses designed for daily recitation. The specific authorship remains uncertain, though the text reflects the devotional theology developed by Vaishnava teachers and poet-saints during the 15th-17th centuries when such concise hymnic forms gained widespread popularity among practicing devotees seeking accessible yet profound spiritual medicine.

The ashtakam's structure demonstrates remarkable Sanskrit craftsmanship: each verse employs sophisticated paronomasia (wordplay), prefixing Krishna's protective actions with names of those protected or demons defeated. This double meaning reveals Krishna's dual nature—destroyer of asuras (demonic forces) and eternal protector of sincere hearts. The recurring refrain 'Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama' (Lord Krishna, you are my refuge) anchors every verse, converting the recitation into a mantra of complete surrender. The eighth verse's promise—that sincere reciters attain Krishna's grace and dwell eternally in Gokula witnessing divine pastimes—reflects the Bhagavata Purana's core teaching that bhakti (devotion) surpasses knowledge and action as the ultimate path to liberation (moksha).

Today, Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam is widely preserved in Sanskrit mantric collections and digital repositories, transmitted through both traditional guru-disciple lineages and modern platforms serving millions of global devotees. The hymn remains alive within Krishna temples, ashrams, and the hearts of sincere practitioners who chant it during morning worship (brahma muhurta) and evening devotion (sandhya). Its enduring popularity testifies to the universal power of sharanagati—the timeless wisdom that surrendering to divine grace transforms suffering into peace and accelerates the spiritual journey toward liberation.

How to Use in Daily Life

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Early Morning Practice

Chant Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam during brahma muhurta (early dawn, two hours before sunrise) when the mind is clearest and divine receptivity strongest. Even 10-15 minutes of sincere recitation aligns your day with Krishna's grace and protective presence.

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Meditation Focus

Use individual verses as meditation anchors, contemplating Krishna's protective deeds in each stanza. Visualize his grace flowing through your heart, dissolving fears and negative thoughts. Let the refrain 'Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama' become your inner mantra of surrender.

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Evening Worship

Recite the complete ashtakam during sandhya (twilight) as part of your evening spiritual practice. This timing harmonizes with natural energy cycles and prepares consciousness for restful sleep infused with Krishna's protective presence.

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Crisis & Difficulty

During personal challenges, spiritual confusion, or emotional turbulence, turn to this ashtakam for solace and divine intervention. Even a single sincere recitation with heartfelt surrender invokes Krishna's grace and transforms your relationship with difficulty into spiritual opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam?
The Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam is a devotional Sanskrit hymn composed of eight verses (ashtakam means 'eight') dedicated to Lord Krishna. Each verse expresses profound devotion and surrender to Krishna, traditionally emphasizing the practice of taking refuge in the divine. The text is structured as a prayer that invokes Krishna's grace and acknowledges his supreme nature. According to Hindu devotional traditions, this ashtakam represents a path of bhakti (devotion) wherein the devotee seeks Krishna's protection and guidance. The composition reflects classical Sanskrit poetic forms while maintaining spiritual depth, making it accessible to both serious practitioners and those new to Krishna devotion. The ashtakam is recited during personal worship, meditation sessions, and temple ceremonies. Scholars suggest that such devotional hymns serve as bridges between the individual consciousness and divine awareness, helping practitioners cultivate a deeper relationship with the divine principle represented by Krishna. The text emphasizes qualities like humility, surrender, and unconditional love—core themes in Krishna-centered spirituality found throughout Hindu philosophy and the Bhagavad Gita.
What are the spiritual benefits of chanting Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam?
Practitioners of the Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam traditionally believe that regular chanting cultivates deep spiritual transformation. According to Puranic texts and devotional literature, the primary benefit is the development of bhakti (devotional love) and the strengthening of one's connection with Krishna consciousness. Many practitioners report experiencing increased peace, mental clarity, and emotional stability through consistent recitation. The mantra is traditionally believed to purify the mind by redirecting thoughts toward divine principles rather than material concerns. Chanting the ashtakam is said to foster surrender (sharana), helping practitioners release ego and accept divine will with grace. Devotees often experience enhanced focus during meditation and a greater sense of spiritual purpose. The rhythm and sound vibrations of Sanskrit verses are believed to positively influence the nervous system and chakras. Additionally, the practice traditionally strengthens protection from negative influences—both external and internal—by aligning consciousness with Krishna's divine energy. Regular practitioners suggest that the ashtakam develops qualities like compassion, forgiveness, and unconditional love. The cumulative effect of devotional practice is traditionally believed to accelerate spiritual growth and bring one closer to self-realization and liberation (moksha).
How should I chant the Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam?
For optimal results, practitioners traditionally follow these guidelines when chanting the Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam. Begin by finding a clean, quiet space where you won't be disturbed. Sit in a comfortable meditation posture such as Sukhasana (easy pose) or Padmasana (lotus pose), keeping your spine straight to allow energy to flow freely. It's traditional to face east or north, directions associated with spiritual practice. Before beginning, take a few deep breaths to center yourself and set a clear intention (sankalpa) for your practice. Start by chanting the ashtakam slowly and deliberately, focusing on proper Sanskrit pronunciation. Ideally, chant at a moderate pace—neither too fast nor too slow—allowing each word's vibration to resonate within your body. Many practitioners complete one full recitation daily, though some prefer three or multiples thereof. Early morning (Brahma Muhurta) is traditionally considered the most auspicious time. You may chant aloud, whisper, or mentally recite, depending on your circumstances and preference. Maintain focus on the meaning of the verses while chanting. Conclude by sitting quietly for a few minutes, allowing the vibrations to integrate. Consistency matters more than duration, so establishing a regular daily practice, even for 10-15 minutes, yields better results than occasional longer sessions.
What is the origin and history of Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam?
The Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam belongs to the rich tradition of Sanskrit devotional literature that flourished throughout Hindu history. While the exact author and date of composition remain subjects of scholarly discussion, the ashtakam reflects the philosophical framework established in classical texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavata Purana. The composition emerged from India's devotional movement (bhakti movement), which emphasized personal relationship with the divine through songs, hymns, and prayers. Scholars suggest the ashtakam was likely composed during the medieval period when devotional hymns became central to spiritual practice. The structure of eight verses follows ancient Sanskrit conventions, allowing the text to be easily memorized and transmitted through oral tradition—a crucial aspect of Hindu spiritual knowledge preservation. The emphasis on 'sharana' (refuge/surrender) reflects philosophical teachings that appear in Vedantic and Puranic literature, where surrender to the divine is presented as a direct path to liberation. Throughout centuries, the ashtakam has been preserved and transmitted by spiritual teachers, temples, and devotional communities. It represents the culmination of centuries of devotional wisdom, synthesizing theological understanding with emotional bhakti. The text continues to be widely practiced in temples, ashrams, and homes across India and among Krishna devotees worldwide, maintaining its relevance across generations.
What are some practical tips for pronouncing and remembering the Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam?
Sanskrit pronunciation requires attention to specific sounds and vowel lengths that distinguish meaning and enhance spiritual efficacy. Begin by learning the Sanskrit alphabet (devanagari script) if possible, as this provides a foundation for accurate pronunciation. Each Sanskrit letter carries specific vibrational qualities, so precision matters. Key pronunciation tips: use long vowels (aa, ee, oo) with extended breath, pronounce consonants clearly without adding extra vowels, and pay attention to aspirated consonants (those with the 'h' sound). Resources like recorded versions by experienced Sanskrit teachers or online pronunciation guides can greatly assist your learning. For memorization, break the ashtakam into smaller sections—typically verse by verse—and practice daily. Many practitioners find that singing or chanting with a melodic pattern aids memory retention significantly. Create associations between verses and specific Krishna stories or qualities to deepen understanding and recall. Write out the transliteration in a way that feels natural to your pronunciation patterns. Listen repeatedly to authentic recordings while following the text. Join study groups or find a guru who can provide personalized guidance on pronunciation and meaning. Consider keeping a dedicated journal for tracking your practice. The combination of consistent repetition, meaningful engagement with the content, and audio learning creates optimal conditions for both accurate pronunciation and long-term retention of this sacred text.
What happens if we chant Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam?
Regular chanting of Sri Krishna Sharana Ashtakam creates measurable shifts in your mental, emotional, and spiritual state. Invokes Krishna's divine protection from inner and outer adversities, shielding sincere devotees from harm and negative influences through unconditional surrender.. Deepens intimate spiritual connection with Krishna, transforming abstract devotion into lived experience of divine presence and personal relationship with the Supreme.. Cultivates sharanagati (complete surrender), dissolving ego-centered resistance and creating profound inner peace through acceptance of divine will and grace.. Most practitioners notice a tangible difference within the first week of daily practice — start with 108 repetitions using a mala and observe how your inner state transforms.

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From the Bhagavad Gita

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BG 4.7

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