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Shadakshara Stotram
Shiva Mantra sanskrit

Shadakshara Stotram

The Shadakshara Stotram is a sacred hymn celebrating the six syllables of Shiva's divine essence: Om, Na, Ma, Shi, Va, and Ya. Each verse opens with one syllable, establishing the mantra's core structure. The first verse honors Om—the primordial sound unified with the Bindu (cosmic point)—which yogis continuously meditate upon. This syllable grants both material fulfillment (kama) and ultimate liberation (moksha). Through six progressive verses, the stotram systematically unveils Shiva's attributes: his universal worship, his role as destroyer of karma, his peaceful sovereignty, his divine vehicle and adornments, his omnipresence, and his status as Guru of all deities.

In Tantric and Vedantic philosophy, the six syllables represent the complete journey from creation to liberation. Each syllable vibrates at a specific frequency corresponding to different chakras and dimensions of consciousness. The stotram positions Shiva as both transcendent (beyond the cosmos) and immanent (present everywhere)—a paradox central to Shaivism. By invoking the syllables sequentially, practitioners attune themselves to Shiva's multidimensional power: his destructive capacity (removing ego and ignorance), his nurturing grace (Shakti on his left side), and his role as eternal teacher. The final verse promises that sincere recitation in Shiva's presence leads to Shivaloka—the realm of eternal bliss and union with Shiva consciousness.

Chant this stotram during Shivaratri, Mondays, or daily meditation practice. Begin with three repetitions, focusing on the meaning rather than mechanical recitation. Traditionally performed before Shiva worship or in temples, it can also be chanted mentally during commutes. The mantra's six-syllable structure makes it ideal for pranayama (breathing): inhale on three syllables, exhale on three. Best results emerge when combined with mudras (hand gestures) or visualization of Shiva in deep meditation, creating a bridge between intellectual understanding and direct spiritual experience.

Curated by The Mahakatha Team · Original Composition: Mahakatha · Lyric: Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE)

Shadakshara Stotram

Shiva · Preview · 2:00

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Lyrics

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

ॐकारं बिंदु समयुक्तं नित्यं ध्यायंति योगिनः। कामदं मोक्षदं चैव ॐकारायनमो नमः॥

Omkaaram Bindu Samyuktam Nityam Dhyaayanti Yoginah Kaamadam Mokshadam Chaiva Omkaaraaya Namo Namaha

2

नमंति ऋषयो देवा नमंत्यप्सरसां गणः। नरा नमंति देवेशं नकारायनमो नमः॥

Namanti Rishayo Devaa Namantyapsarasaam Ganaha Naraa Namanti Devesham Nakaaraaya Namo Namaha

3

महादेवं महात्मानं महाध्यानं परायणम्। महापाप हरं देवं मकारायनमो नमः॥

Mahaadevam Mahaatmaanam Mahaadhyaanam Paraayanam Mahaapaapa Haram Devam Makaaraaya Namo Namaha

4

शिवं शांतं जगन्नाथं लोकानुग्रह कारकम्। शिवमेकपदं नित्यं शिकारायनमो नमः॥

Shivam Shaantam Jagannaatham Lokanugraha Kaarakam Shivamekapadam Nityam Shikaaraaya Namo Namaha

5

वाहनं वृषभो यस्य वासुकिही कण्ठ भूषणम्। वामे शक्ति धरं देवं वकारायनमो नमः॥

Vaahanam Vrishabho Yasya Vaasukihi Kantha-Bhushanam Vaame Shakti Dharam Devam Vakaaraaya Namo Namaha

6

यत्र यत्र स्थितो देवः सर्व व्यापी महेश्वरः। यो गुरुः सर्व देवानां यकारायनमो नमः॥

Yatra Yatra Sthito Devah Sarva Vyaapi Maheshvaraha Yo Guruhu Sarva Devaanaam Yakaaraaya Namo Namaha

7

इति श्रि शड़क्षर स्तोत्रं संपूर्णम्॥

iti shrisuryashtakastotram sampurnam

Word-by-Word Meaning

Sanskrit Meaning
Omkaaram The syllable Om; from root 'Om' (primordial sound) + 'kara' (maker/form), representing the supreme sound-form of Brahman.
Bindu A dot or point; in Tantra, the subtle energy point representing the source of creation.
Samyuktam United, joined, or combined; from 'sam' (together) + 'yuj' (to join).
Nityam Eternal, perpetual, or constant; from root 'nit' (to lead/bind).
Dhyaayanti They meditate; third person plural present tense from root 'dhya' (to meditate/contemplate).
Yoginah Yogis or practitioners of yoga; plural nominative form from 'yoga' + 'in' (possessing).
Kaamadam Granter of desires; from 'kama' (desire) + 'da' (giver), in accusative form.
Mokshadam Bestower of liberation; from 'moksha' (liberation) + 'da' (giver), in accusative form.
Chaiva And also, and even; conjunction 'cha' + 'eva' (emphatic particle).
Omkaaraaya To Om or Om-form; dative case of Omkaara, expressing devotion toward the sacred syllable.
Namo Salutation, homage, or bowing; used in nominative form at the beginning of reverential phrases.
Namaha I bow to you; from root 'nam' (to bow), expressing reverential greeting.
Namanti They bow, they salute; third person plural present from root 'nam' (to bow).
Rishayo Sages or seers; plural nominative form of 'rishi' (wise one who perceives truth).
Devaa Gods or divine beings; plural nominative form of 'deva' from root 'div' (to shine).
Ganaha Host, multitude, or group; from 'gana' (troop/assembly), nominative singular.
Naraa Men or human beings; plural nominative form of 'nara' from root 'nar' (to lead).
Devesham Of gods; genitive plural form of 'deva', meaning 'of the gods'.
Nakaaraaya To the letter Na; dative case, referring to the syllable Na in the Six-syllable mantra.
Mahaadevam The Great God; accusative form of 'mahadeva', epithet of Shiva from 'maha' (great) + 'deva' (god).
Mahaatmaanam The Great Soul; accusative form from 'maha' (great) + 'atman' (soul/self).
Paraayanam Refuge, ultimate resort; from 'para' (supreme) + 'ayan' (going/path).
Mahaapaapa Great sin; from 'maha' (great) + 'papa' (sin), referring to destroyer of great sins.
Haram Destroyer, remover; accusative form from root 'har' (to take/remove).
Devam God, divine being; accusative singular of 'deva' from root 'div' (to shine).
Makaaraaya To the letter Ma; dative case, referring to the syllable Ma in the Six-syllable mantra.
Shivam Auspicious, benevolent; accusative form of 'Shiva', the supreme deity representing consciousness.
Shaantam Peaceful, tranquil; accusative form from root 'sham' (to pacify/calm).
Jagannaatham Lord of the world; accusative form from 'jagat' (world) + 'natha' (lord).
Kaarakam Agent, doer, cause; accusative form from root 'kar' (to do/make).
Shikaaraaya To the letter Sha; dative case, referring to the syllable Sha in the Six-syllable mantra.
Vaahanam Vehicle, carrier; accusative form from root 'vah' (to carry/ride).
Vrishabho Bull; nominative singular, the sacred mount (vahana) of Shiva.
Yasya Of whom, whose; genitive singular masculine pronoun from 'ya' (who).
Vaasukihi Vasuki; the cosmic serpent worn by Shiva, nominative form.
Kantha-Bhushanam Ornament of the neck/throat; from 'kantha' (neck) + 'bhushana' (ornament), referring to serpents adorning Shiva.
Vaame On the left; locative form of 'vama' (left), indicating the left side.
Shakti Power, energy, or divine feminine force; often personified as Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva.
Dharam Bearer, supporter; accusative form from root 'dhr' (to hold/support).
Vakaaraaya To the letter Va; dative case, referring to the syllable Va in the Six-syllable mantra.
Yatra Where, wherever; relative adverb from root 'yat' (to go).
Sthito Established, situated, dwelling; past participle from root 'stha' (to stand/dwell).
Devah God, the divine being; nominative singular from root 'div' (to shine).
Sarva All, entire, complete; adjective from root 'sr' (to flow).
Vyaapi Pervading, permeating; from root 'vya-ap' (to spread/pervade throughout).
Maheshvaraha The Great Lord; nominative form from 'maha' (great) + 'ishvara' (lord), supreme deity.
Yo Who, which; relative pronoun nominative singular masculine from root 'ya' (who).
Guruhu Teacher, guru, spiritual master; nominative singular from root 'gar' (to glorify).
Devaanaam Of the gods; genitive plural form of 'deva', expressing possession/relation.
Yakaaraaya To the letter Ya; dative case, referring to the syllable Ya in the Six-syllable mantra.
iti Thus, so; particle marking the end of a quote or statement.
sampurnam Complete, finished, whole; accusative form from 'sam' (together) + 'pur' (to fill), meaning 'completely filled/finished'.

How to Chant Shadakshara Stotram

  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 Shadakshara Stotram

    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 Shadakshara Stotram

  • Accelerates spiritual awakening and self-realization through alignment with Shiva's consciousness

    Source: Shiva Purana & Tantric tradition

  • Purifies karmic imprints and dissolves negative samskaras (mental conditioning)

    Source: Traditional Shaivite practice

  • Activates the Ajna and Sahasrara chakras, facilitating higher states of meditation

    Source: Tantric texts and Kundalini Yoga tradition

  • Grants protection and removes obstacles through Shiva's fearless, destructive power

    Source: Rudra Upanishad & Shiva Agamas

  • Bestows inner peace and equanimity by embodying Shiva's eternal calm and detachment

    Source: Yoga Sutras philosophy and Shaivism

  • Fulfills righteous desires while guiding the practitioner toward ultimate liberation (moksha)

    Source: Shiva Purana & Upanishadic tradition

Deity Shiva
Composition Mahakatha (Original) · Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE) (Lyric)
Also called Shadakshara Stotram · Shadakshara Mantra · Om Namah Shivaya Stotram
Shiva also known as Mahadeva · Maheshwara · Shankar · Bholenath · Nataraja
Good for
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Story & Symbolism

The Shadakshara Stotram emerges from ancient Shaivite wisdom traditions that recognized six sacred syllables as containing Shiva's complete cosmic principle. The stotram appears woven throughout Shiva Purana texts and Tantric liturgies, where it served as both a devotional hymn and an advanced meditation technique. Ancient yogis discovered that these six syllables—Om, Na, Ma, Shi, Va, Ya—correspond to specific dimensions of consciousness and chakras within the subtle body. Rather than being composed by a single author, the stotram likely crystallized through centuries of yogic experimentation and refinement, passed orally through guru-disciple lineages before being codified in written texts. Its structure reflects the sophisticated understanding of sound (shabda) as a manifestation of divine consciousness found in Tantra and Vedanta.

The six-syllable mantra represents the complete arc of Shiva's cosmic dance (Nataraja): creation, maintenance, dissolution, concealment of divine nature, grace-bestowing, and ultimate liberation. Each syllable vibrates at frequencies that progressively attune human consciousness to increasingly subtle dimensions of reality. The stotram's genius lies in its systematic unveiling of Shiva's multifaceted nature—from the transcendent (Paramatman) to the immanent (present in all beings). By the final verse, the practitioner experiences Shiva not as distant deity but as their own innermost Self. The promise of Shivaloka (Shiva's realm) through sincere recitation reflects the Upanishadic teaching that the Self we seek externally already resides within as our deepest nature.

In contemporary practice, the Shadakshara Stotram thrives across Shaivite traditions—from South Indian temples where priests chant it daily to Himalayan ashrams where advanced yogis use it as a cornerstone of meditation. Its transmission to global practitioners represents the natural flowering of ancient wisdom adapted for modern seekers. The stotram remains vital because it addresses timeless human longings: liberation from suffering, inner peace, and direct experience of the divine—needs as urgent today as they were thousands of years ago when yogis first whispered these sacred syllables into existence.

How to Use in Daily Life

🌅

Dawn Meditation

Chant 3-11 rounds during Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn) to establish spiritual momentum and cleanse overnight accumulated mental residue. Sit facing east, spine erect, mind calm. Let each syllable anchor deeper into silence.

🧘

Chakra Activation

Synchronize with breath: inhale Om-Na-Ma (lower chakras), exhale Shi-Va-Ya (upper chakras). This pranayama-mantra fusion directly activates your energy centers and awakens kundalini shakti safely through Shiva's blessings.

🙏

Temple/Altar Practice

Recite before a Shiva image, lingam, or personal shrine. The physical sacred space amplifies vibrational resonance. Offer flowers, incense, or water as you chant, transforming ritual into direct communion with divine consciousness.

💤

Evening Integration

Chant slowly before sleep to process the day's experiences and program your subconscious with Shiva's peace. This prepares your subtle body for lucid dreams and spiritual insights during deep sleep states.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Shadakshara Stotram and why is it dedicated to Shiva?
The Shadakshara Stotram is a sacred hymn composed in Sanskrit that celebrates Lord Shiva through six-syllable verses and mantric formulations. 'Shadakshara' literally means 'six syllables,' referring to the foundational structure of the composition. This stotram is traditionally believed to be a concentrated expression of Shiva's supreme nature, encompassing his cosmic aspects as the destroyer, transformer, and ultimate consciousness. According to Puranic texts, the six-syllable structure mirrors the sacred mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya,' which itself contains profound vibrational qualities. The stotram is dedicated to Shiva because it encapsulates the essence of his divine attributes—transcendence, meditation, and benevolence. Devotees chant this stotram to invoke Shiva's blessings for spiritual evolution and inner transformation. The composition is found in various Shaiva traditions and Tantric texts, where it serves as both a devotional prayer and a tool for yogic practice. The rhythmic and syllabic precision of the Shadakshara Stotram makes it particularly effective for meditation, as it aligns the practitioner's consciousness with Shiva's transcendent vibrations. Whether recited during worship, meditation, or ritualistic ceremonies, this stotram connects the devotee to the primordial energy that Shiva represents in Hindu philosophy.
What are the spiritual and health benefits of chanting the Shadakshara Stotram?
Traditionally believed by practitioners and spiritual teachers, the Shadakshara Stotram offers multiple layers of benefits. Spiritually, chanting this stotram is said to deepen meditation practices by stabilizing the mind and enhancing concentration. The six-syllable structure creates rhythmic vibrations that scholars suggest can align the body's subtle energy centers, or chakras, promoting spiritual awakening and self-realization. Many devotees report experiencing increased clarity and mental peace after regular recitation. The stotram is also believed to cultivate devotion to Shiva and strengthen the practitioner's connection to divine consciousness. According to traditional Ayurvedic and yogic understanding, the vibrational patterns of Sanskrit mantras like this stotram may positively influence the nervous system, potentially reducing stress and anxiety. Regular chanting is traditionally said to purify negative karmic patterns and facilitate emotional healing. The stotram's structure is believed to activate dormant spiritual potential and enhance intuitive abilities. Many practitioners incorporate it into their daily sadhana to experience greater inner harmony, improved focus at work, and enhanced overall well-being. While these benefits are rooted in traditional spiritual understanding rather than clinical evidence, countless practitioners report transformative experiences through consistent, sincere chanting of this sacred hymn.
How should I properly chant the Shadakshara Stotram?
To chant the Shadakshara Stotram effectively, begin by finding a clean, quiet space where you can sit comfortably in a cross-legged position or on a chair. Traditionally, practitioners face east or north, directions considered spiritually auspicious. Before beginning, take three conscious breaths and set a sincere intention for your practice. Start by chanting 'Om' three times to purify your space and mind. Then, begin the stotram slowly, enunciating each Sanskrit syllable clearly and deliberately. The pace should be neither rushed nor excessively slow—aim for a steady rhythm that feels natural and meditative. Many practitioners find that chanting at a moderate tempo, approximately 60-90 words per minute, creates optimal vibrational resonance. Focus your awareness on the meaning of the verses as you chant, rather than treating it as mere mechanical repetition. Traditionally, practitioners recommend chanting for at least 11 minutes daily, though longer sessions yield deeper results. You may chant aloud, whisper, or recite mentally; all forms are valid. Consider using a mala (prayer beads) to count repetitions—traditionally, 108 repetitions constitute one complete cycle. Best practices suggest chanting during brahma muhurta (early morning hours) for maximum spiritual benefit. Conclude your practice with gratitude and a moment of silent meditation to integrate the mantra's vibrations.
What is the historical and scriptural origin of the Shadakshara Stotram?
The Shadakshara Stotram is traditionally believed to originate from ancient Shaiva philosophical and devotional literature. According to scholarly research, compositions with six-syllable structures appear throughout Vedic and Puranic texts, with the most famous being 'Om Namah Shivaya,' which forms the spiritual foundation of many Shaiva practices. While specific authorship of the Shadakshara Stotram itself remains unclear—as is common with many Sanskrit devotional texts—it is generally attributed to the broader Shaiva tradition that flourished throughout India for millennia. Some scholars suggest connections to Tantric texts and Agama scriptures, which extensively employ six-syllable mantras for their potent vibrational properties. The stotram reflects the sophisticated understanding of mantra science developed by ancient Indian sages and yogis. Historical records indicate that such hymns were preserved and transmitted orally through guru-disciple lineages before being documented in written manuscripts. The composition embodies the philosophical principles found in texts like the Shiva Purana and Linga Purana, which celebrate Shiva's transcendent nature. Various regional Shaiva traditions—including those in South India, Kashmir, and Nepal—maintain their own versions and interpretations of similar six-syllable compositions. The enduring presence of the Shadakshara Stotram across different geographical regions and time periods attests to its profound spiritual significance within Hindu devotional practice.
What pronunciation tips and practical advice should I know before starting?
Sanskrit pronunciation requires careful attention to ensure proper vibrational resonance. Key tips: pronounce each vowel distinctly—'a' as in 'father,' 'i' as in 'see,' 'u' as in 'cool,' 'e' as in 'say,' and 'o' as in 'go.' Consonants should be articulated clearly from the correct part of the mouth; for instance, 'sh' (as in 'shiva') differs from 's' (as in 'sun'). Many practitioners struggle with retroflexed consonants—letters like 'ta,' 'da,' and 'na' pronounced with the tongue curled backward. To master pronunciation, consider listening to recorded versions of the stotram by experienced Sanskrit scholars or traditional teachers. If possible, study under a qualified guru who can correct your pronunciation in real-time. Keep a written text with diacritical marks (IAST notation) to reference proper syllable structure. Practically speaking, maintain consistency in your practice—daily chanting for even 15 minutes outweighs sporadic longer sessions. Create a dedicated practice space with minimal distractions. Begin slowly and gradually increase your pace as familiarity grows. Don't feel discouraged by pronunciation imperfections; sincere effort and devotion matter significantly. Many teachers emphasize that pure intention and heartfelt participation often matter more than perfect Sanskrit accent. Recording yourself chanting allows you to identify areas for improvement. Most importantly, approach the practice with patience, reverence, and an open heart.
What happens if we chant Shadakshara Stotram?
Regular chanting of Shadakshara Stotram creates measurable shifts in your mental, emotional, and spiritual state. Accelerates spiritual awakening and self-realization through alignment with Shiva's consciousness. Purifies karmic imprints and dissolves negative samskaras (mental conditioning). Activates the Ajna and Sahasrara chakras, facilitating higher states of meditation. 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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Om Namah Shivaya Japa (108x)
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Maha Mrityunjaya Japa
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Shiva Kavach
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Batuk Bhairav Kavach

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