Lakshmi Narasimha Ashtottara Shatanama stotra
Narasimho mahasimho divyasimho mahabala
Ugrasimho mahadevah stambajas cogralocana 1
Raudra sarvadbhutah sriman yoganandas trivikrama
Harih kolahalas chakri vijayo jayavardhana 2
Pancananah parambrahma aghora ghoravikrama
Jvalanmukho jvalamali mahajvalas mahaprabhu 3
Nitilaksah sahasrakso durniriksyah pratapana
Mahadamstra yudhahprajnas candakopi sadasiva 4
Hiranyakasipudhvamsi daityadanavabhanjana
Gunabhadro mahabhadro balabhadrah subhadraka 5
Karalo vikaralascha vikarta sarvakartrka
Sisumaras trilokatma isah sarvesvaro vibhu 6
Bhairavadambaro divyas cacyutah kavi madhava
Adhoksajo'ksarah sarve vanamali varaprada 7
Visvambaro'dbhuto bhavyah srivisnuh purusottama
Anaghastra nakhastracha suryojyotih suresvara 8
Sahasrabahuh sarvajnah sarvasiddhipradayaka
Vajradamstro vajranakho mahanandah paramtapa 9
Sarvamantraikarupascha sarvayantravidarama
Sarvatantratmakavyakta suvyakta bhakta vatsala 10
Vaisakhasuklabhutotthah saranagatavatsala
Udarakirtih punyatma mahatma candravikrama 11
Vedatrayo prapujyascha bhagavan paramesvara
Srivatsamka srinivaso jagadvyapi jaganmaya 12
Jagatpalo jagannatha mahakhago dvirupabhrt
Paramatma paramjyotir nirgunascha nrikesari 13
Paratattvam paramdhama saccidanandavigraha
Laksminrsimha sarvatma dhirah prahladapalaka 14
Idam laksminrsimhasya namastottaramisatam
Trisandhyam yahpathetbhaktya sarvabheestamavapnuyat 15
Friday, March 28, 2008
Monday, March 24, 2008
கரவலம்பம் - Sankaracharya
shrImatpayonidhiniketana chakrapANe
bhogIndrabhogamaNiranjitapuNyamuurte |
yogIsha shAshvata sharaNya bhavAbdhipota
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 1 ||
O Lakshminrsimha, whose abode is the ocean of milk, who hold the (sudarSana) discus in Your hand, whose pleasing form is adorned by the jewels that are the hoods of Adi Sesha, who are the Lord of the Yogis, the Eternal One, who provide protection to those who seek it, the boat by which
one crosses the ocean of miseries, provide me the support of Your hands.
brahmendrarudramarudarkakirITakoTi -
saN^ghaTTitaaN^ghrikamalaamalakaantikaanta |
lakshhmIlasatkuchasaroruharaajahaMsa
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 2 ||
Your lotus feet are touched by the tips of the crowns of Brahma, Indra, Rudra, the Maruts and Suurya. The brilliance of Your lotus feet thus adds to Your effulgence, O dear one! You are the King of swans sporting near the beautiful lotus breasts of Lakshmi. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaaraghoragahane charato muraare
maarograbhiikaramR^igapravaraarditasya |
aartasya matsaranidaaghanipiiDitasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 3 ||
O Muraari (enemy of Mura)! I have been tormented by the fierce and terrifying lion called desire (kaama) while wandering in the dense
forest called samsaaric existence. I have been scorched by the heat of the summer called envy (matsara). To me who have been thus afflicted,
O Lakshminrsimha, do You provide the support of Your hands.
saMsaarakuupamatighoramagaadhamuulam
saMpraapya duHkhashatasarpasamaakulasya |
diinasya deva kR^ipaNaapadamaagatasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 4 ||
Having reached the bottom of the unfathomable and extremely fearful well called samsaaric existence, I have been troubled by the hundreds of serpents called miseries. O Deva! O Lakshminrsimha! To me who am helpless and who have reached this wretched condition, do You provide the support of Your hands.
saMsaarasaagaravishaalakaraalakaala-
nakragrahagrasananigrahavigrahasya |
vyagrasya raagarasanorminipiiDitasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 5 ||
In the ocean that is worldly existence, my body has been eaten by large and dreadful crocodiles and whales that are Time. I have been afflicted by the waves called passion and attachment to the organ of taste. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaaravR^ikshhamaghabiijamanantakarma-
shaakhaashataM karaNapatramanaN^gapushhpam.h |
aaruhya duHkhaphalitaM patato dayaalo
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 6 ||
The tree of worldly existence arises from the seed of sin. Its numerous branches are the endless actions (karmas), its leaves are the organs of the body, its flower is passion (kaama), its fruit is sorrow. Having ascended this tree, I am falling down. O compassionate Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaarasarpaghanavaktrabhayogratiivra-
daMshhTraakaraalavishhadagdhavinashhTamuurteH |
naagaarivaahana sudhaabdhinivaasa shaure
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 7 ||
Worldly existence is a serpent which has opened its gigantic mouth, revealing its most dreadful and sharp fangs filled with terrible venom. This venom has burnt up my body and has destroyed it. O Lord whose vehicle is Garuda! O Lord whose abode is the ocean of milk! O Shauri! O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaaradaavadahanaaturabhiikaroru-
jvaalaavaliibhiratidagdhatanuuruhasya |
tvatpaadapadmasarasiisharaNaagatasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 8 ||
In the forest conflagration of worldly existence (illusion), I have been burned badly. Even every single hair on my body has been burned by large and fearful columns of flames. In this condition I have sought the shelter of the cool lake that is Your lotus feet. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaarajaala-patitasya jagannivaasa
sarvendriyaartha-vaDishaartha-jhashhopamasya |
protkhaNDita-prachura-taaluka-mastakasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 9 ||
I am like a fish, caught in the net of worldly existence. My palate and head have been severely torn apart by the fish-hook that is the objects of the
senses. O Lord in whom the world resides! O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaara-bhiikara-kariindra-karaabhighaata-
nishhpishhTa-marmavapushhaH sakalaartinaasha |
praaNaprayaaNa-bhavabhiiti-samaakulasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 10 ||
The fearful rogue elephant of worldly illusion has struck me with its trunk, completely crushing all my vital parts. I have been overcome by the
fear of worldy existence and death. O Destroyer of all suffering! O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
andhasya me hR^itavivekamahaadhanasya
choraiH prabho balibhirindriyanaamadheyaiH |
mohaandhakuupakuhare vinipaatitasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 11 ||
O Lord! My great wealth called power of discrimination (viveka) has been stolen away by the powerful thieves called senses. I am blind (without the power of discrimination between things eternal and noneternal). In this condition, I have been pushed into the dark well called delusion. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
baddhvaa gale yamabhaTaa bahutarjayantaH
karshhanti yatra bhavapaashashatairyutaM maam.h |
ekaakinaM paravashaM chakitaM dayaalo
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 12 ||
I have been bound by hundreds of snares of worldly attachments. The soldiers of Yama (Death) have cast their noose around my neck and are dragging me along, threatening me. I am alone, frightened, and without any independence. O compassionate Lakshmi nrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
lakshhmIpate kamalanAbha suresha vishhNo
vaikuNTha kR^ishhNa madhusUdana pushhkarAkshha |
brahmaNya keshava janArdana vAsudeva
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 13 ||
O Lord of Lakshmi, from whose navel emanates a lotus, O Lord of gods, O Vishnu, O Vaikuntha, O Krishna, O Madhusudana (slayer of Madhu), O Lotus-eyed One, O Brahmanya (the most exalted knower of Brahman), O Keshava, O Janardana, O Vasudeva, O Lakshmi Nrsimha, do You provide me the support of Your hands.
ekena chakramapareNa kareNa shaMkha-
manyena sindhutanyaaamavalambya tishhThan.h |
vaame kareNa varadaabhayapadmachihnaM
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 14 ||
In one hand You hold the (sudarshana) discus; in another You hold the (paanchajanya) conch; another hand rests on (the waist of) the daughter of the ocean, Lakshmi; and the (fourth) hand signifies that You bestow boons and drive away the fear (of the devotees). O Lakshmi nrsimha provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaarasaagaranimajjanamuhyamaanaM
diinaM vilokaya vibho karuNaanidhe maaM |
prahlaadakhedaparihaaraparaavataara
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 15 ||
Being drowned in the ocean of samsaaric existence, I am deluded. O Lord! O Treasure of compassion! Turn your glance toward me who am helpless. (Just as You) assumed the Supreme avatar for the purpose of eradicating the sorrow of Prahlaada, do You, Lakshmi nrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
prahlaadanaaradaparaasharapuNDariika-
vyaasaadibhaagavatapu.ngavahR^innivaasa |
bhaktaanuraktaparipaalanapaarijaata
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 16 ||
You dwell in the hearts of the best of the Bhagavatas, such as Prahlada, Narada, Parashara, Pundarika, and Vyasa. You are like the desire-fulfilling tree in protecting the loyal devotees. O Lakshmi nrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
lakshhmInR^isiMhacharaNaabjamadhuvratena
stotraM kR^itam shubhakaraM bhuvi sha.nkareNa |
ye tatpaThanti manujaa haribhaktiyuktaa-
ste yaanti tatpadasarojamakhaNDaruupaM || 17 ||
This auspicious hymn has been composed by Shankara who is the bee engaged in drinking the nectar of the lotus feet of Shri Lakshminrsimha. In this world, anyone who recites it will be filled with devotion to Hari and will attain the undivided lotus feet of Brahman.
|| shrii lakshhmInR^siMhaarpaNamastu ||
[Note: With this conclusion, I have fulfilled a long-chersihed desire of mine to translate the Lakshmi nrsimha stotra. I would like to acknowledge my gratitude to the Advaiti Prabodhaka Sangha, Dharwad, Karnataka, whose Kannada translation of the shorter version of the stotra was useful in translating some verses. The stotra appears in two versions. The shorter version has 13 verses, and the longer version has 17. I have used the text of the longer version which includes the two verses with references to Prahlada. Drink deep from the ocean of nectar that is the lotus feet of Lakshminrsimha! ]
bhogIndrabhogamaNiranjitapuNyamuurte |
yogIsha shAshvata sharaNya bhavAbdhipota
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 1 ||
O Lakshminrsimha, whose abode is the ocean of milk, who hold the (sudarSana) discus in Your hand, whose pleasing form is adorned by the jewels that are the hoods of Adi Sesha, who are the Lord of the Yogis, the Eternal One, who provide protection to those who seek it, the boat by which
one crosses the ocean of miseries, provide me the support of Your hands.
brahmendrarudramarudarkakirITakoTi -
saN^ghaTTitaaN^ghrikamalaamalakaantikaanta |
lakshhmIlasatkuchasaroruharaajahaMsa
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 2 ||
Your lotus feet are touched by the tips of the crowns of Brahma, Indra, Rudra, the Maruts and Suurya. The brilliance of Your lotus feet thus adds to Your effulgence, O dear one! You are the King of swans sporting near the beautiful lotus breasts of Lakshmi. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaaraghoragahane charato muraare
maarograbhiikaramR^igapravaraarditasya |
aartasya matsaranidaaghanipiiDitasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 3 ||
O Muraari (enemy of Mura)! I have been tormented by the fierce and terrifying lion called desire (kaama) while wandering in the dense
forest called samsaaric existence. I have been scorched by the heat of the summer called envy (matsara). To me who have been thus afflicted,
O Lakshminrsimha, do You provide the support of Your hands.
saMsaarakuupamatighoramagaadhamuulam
saMpraapya duHkhashatasarpasamaakulasya |
diinasya deva kR^ipaNaapadamaagatasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 4 ||
Having reached the bottom of the unfathomable and extremely fearful well called samsaaric existence, I have been troubled by the hundreds of serpents called miseries. O Deva! O Lakshminrsimha! To me who am helpless and who have reached this wretched condition, do You provide the support of Your hands.
saMsaarasaagaravishaalakaraalakaala-
nakragrahagrasananigrahavigrahasya |
vyagrasya raagarasanorminipiiDitasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 5 ||
In the ocean that is worldly existence, my body has been eaten by large and dreadful crocodiles and whales that are Time. I have been afflicted by the waves called passion and attachment to the organ of taste. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaaravR^ikshhamaghabiijamanantakarma-
shaakhaashataM karaNapatramanaN^gapushhpam.h |
aaruhya duHkhaphalitaM patato dayaalo
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 6 ||
The tree of worldly existence arises from the seed of sin. Its numerous branches are the endless actions (karmas), its leaves are the organs of the body, its flower is passion (kaama), its fruit is sorrow. Having ascended this tree, I am falling down. O compassionate Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaarasarpaghanavaktrabhayogratiivra-
daMshhTraakaraalavishhadagdhavinashhTamuurteH |
naagaarivaahana sudhaabdhinivaasa shaure
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 7 ||
Worldly existence is a serpent which has opened its gigantic mouth, revealing its most dreadful and sharp fangs filled with terrible venom. This venom has burnt up my body and has destroyed it. O Lord whose vehicle is Garuda! O Lord whose abode is the ocean of milk! O Shauri! O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaaradaavadahanaaturabhiikaroru-
jvaalaavaliibhiratidagdhatanuuruhasya |
tvatpaadapadmasarasiisharaNaagatasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 8 ||
In the forest conflagration of worldly existence (illusion), I have been burned badly. Even every single hair on my body has been burned by large and fearful columns of flames. In this condition I have sought the shelter of the cool lake that is Your lotus feet. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaarajaala-patitasya jagannivaasa
sarvendriyaartha-vaDishaartha-jhashhopamasya |
protkhaNDita-prachura-taaluka-mastakasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 9 ||
I am like a fish, caught in the net of worldly existence. My palate and head have been severely torn apart by the fish-hook that is the objects of the
senses. O Lord in whom the world resides! O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaara-bhiikara-kariindra-karaabhighaata-
nishhpishhTa-marmavapushhaH sakalaartinaasha |
praaNaprayaaNa-bhavabhiiti-samaakulasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 10 ||
The fearful rogue elephant of worldly illusion has struck me with its trunk, completely crushing all my vital parts. I have been overcome by the
fear of worldy existence and death. O Destroyer of all suffering! O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
andhasya me hR^itavivekamahaadhanasya
choraiH prabho balibhirindriyanaamadheyaiH |
mohaandhakuupakuhare vinipaatitasya
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 11 ||
O Lord! My great wealth called power of discrimination (viveka) has been stolen away by the powerful thieves called senses. I am blind (without the power of discrimination between things eternal and noneternal). In this condition, I have been pushed into the dark well called delusion. O Lakshminrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
baddhvaa gale yamabhaTaa bahutarjayantaH
karshhanti yatra bhavapaashashatairyutaM maam.h |
ekaakinaM paravashaM chakitaM dayaalo
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 12 ||
I have been bound by hundreds of snares of worldly attachments. The soldiers of Yama (Death) have cast their noose around my neck and are dragging me along, threatening me. I am alone, frightened, and without any independence. O compassionate Lakshmi nrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
lakshhmIpate kamalanAbha suresha vishhNo
vaikuNTha kR^ishhNa madhusUdana pushhkarAkshha |
brahmaNya keshava janArdana vAsudeva
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 13 ||
O Lord of Lakshmi, from whose navel emanates a lotus, O Lord of gods, O Vishnu, O Vaikuntha, O Krishna, O Madhusudana (slayer of Madhu), O Lotus-eyed One, O Brahmanya (the most exalted knower of Brahman), O Keshava, O Janardana, O Vasudeva, O Lakshmi Nrsimha, do You provide me the support of Your hands.
ekena chakramapareNa kareNa shaMkha-
manyena sindhutanyaaamavalambya tishhThan.h |
vaame kareNa varadaabhayapadmachihnaM
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 14 ||
In one hand You hold the (sudarshana) discus; in another You hold the (paanchajanya) conch; another hand rests on (the waist of) the daughter of the ocean, Lakshmi; and the (fourth) hand signifies that You bestow boons and drive away the fear (of the devotees). O Lakshmi nrsimha provide me the support of Your hands.
saMsaarasaagaranimajjanamuhyamaanaM
diinaM vilokaya vibho karuNaanidhe maaM |
prahlaadakhedaparihaaraparaavataara
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 15 ||
Being drowned in the ocean of samsaaric existence, I am deluded. O Lord! O Treasure of compassion! Turn your glance toward me who am helpless. (Just as You) assumed the Supreme avatar for the purpose of eradicating the sorrow of Prahlaada, do You, Lakshmi nrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
prahlaadanaaradaparaasharapuNDariika-
vyaasaadibhaagavatapu.ngavahR^innivaasa |
bhaktaanuraktaparipaalanapaarijaata
lakshhmInR^isiMha mama dehi karAvalambam.h || 16 ||
You dwell in the hearts of the best of the Bhagavatas, such as Prahlada, Narada, Parashara, Pundarika, and Vyasa. You are like the desire-fulfilling tree in protecting the loyal devotees. O Lakshmi nrsimha, provide me the support of Your hands.
lakshhmInR^isiMhacharaNaabjamadhuvratena
stotraM kR^itam shubhakaraM bhuvi sha.nkareNa |
ye tatpaThanti manujaa haribhaktiyuktaa-
ste yaanti tatpadasarojamakhaNDaruupaM || 17 ||
This auspicious hymn has been composed by Shankara who is the bee engaged in drinking the nectar of the lotus feet of Shri Lakshminrsimha. In this world, anyone who recites it will be filled with devotion to Hari and will attain the undivided lotus feet of Brahman.
|| shrii lakshhmInR^siMhaarpaNamastu ||
[Note: With this conclusion, I have fulfilled a long-chersihed desire of mine to translate the Lakshmi nrsimha stotra. I would like to acknowledge my gratitude to the Advaiti Prabodhaka Sangha, Dharwad, Karnataka, whose Kannada translation of the shorter version of the stotra was useful in translating some verses. The stotra appears in two versions. The shorter version has 13 verses, and the longer version has 17. I have used the text of the longer version which includes the two verses with references to Prahlada. Drink deep from the ocean of nectar that is the lotus feet of Lakshminrsimha! ]
Sri Narahari-Astaka of Sri Vaadiraja Tirtha
yaddhitaM tava bhaktaanaaM asmaakaM nR^ihare hare |
tadaashu kaaryaM kaaryajna pralayaarkaayutaprabha || 1||
raTatsaTogra-bhrukuTiikaThora-kuTilekshhaNa |
nR^ipanchaasya jvalajvaalo jvalaasyaariin.h hare hara || 2 ||
unnaddhakarNavinyaasa vivR^itaanana bhiishhaNa |
gataduushhaNa me shatruun.h hare narahare hara || 3 ||
hare shikhishikhodbhaasvaduraH kruuranakhotkara |
ariin.h saMhara daMshhTrogra-sphura-jihva nR^siMha me || 4 ||
jaTharasthajagajjaala karakoTyudyutaayudha |
kaTikalpa-taTitkalpavasanaariin.h hare hara || 5 ||
rakshhodhyakshha-bR^ihadvakshhoruukshha-kukshhividaaraNa |
naraharyakshha me shatrupakshhakakshhaM hare daha || 6 ||
vidhimaaruta-sharvendra-puurvagiirvaaNapuMgavaiH |
sadaa nataaN^ghridvandvaariin.h narasiMha hare hara || 7 ||
bhayaMkarorvalaMkaara varahuMkaaragarjita |
hare narahare shatruunmama saMhara saMhara || 8 ||
vaadiraajayatiproktaM naraharyashhTakaM navaM |
paThannR^isiMhakR^ipayaa ripuun.h saMharati kshhaNaat.h ||
tadaashu kaaryaM kaaryajna pralayaarkaayutaprabha || 1||
raTatsaTogra-bhrukuTiikaThora-kuTilekshhaNa |
nR^ipanchaasya jvalajvaalo jvalaasyaariin.h hare hara || 2 ||
unnaddhakarNavinyaasa vivR^itaanana bhiishhaNa |
gataduushhaNa me shatruun.h hare narahare hara || 3 ||
hare shikhishikhodbhaasvaduraH kruuranakhotkara |
ariin.h saMhara daMshhTrogra-sphura-jihva nR^siMha me || 4 ||
jaTharasthajagajjaala karakoTyudyutaayudha |
kaTikalpa-taTitkalpavasanaariin.h hare hara || 5 ||
rakshhodhyakshha-bR^ihadvakshhoruukshha-kukshhividaaraNa |
naraharyakshha me shatrupakshhakakshhaM hare daha || 6 ||
vidhimaaruta-sharvendra-puurvagiirvaaNapuMgavaiH |
sadaa nataaN^ghridvandvaariin.h narasiMha hare hara || 7 ||
bhayaMkarorvalaMkaara varahuMkaaragarjita |
hare narahare shatruunmama saMhara saMhara || 8 ||
vaadiraajayatiproktaM naraharyashhTakaM navaM |
paThannR^isiMhakR^ipayaa ripuun.h saMharati kshhaNaat.h ||
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Hymns and Stotras - M S Rajajee - Part V
Sarvavidyaadhipah paatu
Nrisimho rasanaam mama
Vaktram
paatvinduvadanassadaa
Prahlaada-vanditah
May Lord Narasimha, who is superior in all forms of education, protect my sense of taste. May He whose face is as beautiful as the Moon, to whom worship is offered by Prahlada, protect my face.
Nrisimhah paatu me kantham
skandhau bhoobharanaantakrit
Divyaastra shobhitabhujo
Nrisimhah paatu me bhujam
May Lord Narasimha protect my throat. He sustains the earth and performs great things. His shoulders are lustrous with divine weapons. May He Protect my shoulders.
Karau me devavarado
Nrisimhah paatu sarvatah
Hridayam yogisaadhyascha
nivaasam paatu me Harih
May the Lord Narasimha who showers boons on the gods, protect my hands and from all sides. May Lord Hari who is attained by the Yogis, protect my heart and my residence.
Madhyam paatu Hiranyaksha
vakshah-kukshividaaranah
Naabhim me paatu
Nriharisvanaabhi Brahma
samstutah
May He who tore open the chest and the stomach of the asura, Hiranyakasipu, protect my waist and navel. Brahma, who has arisen from Lord Narasimha’s navel, offers prayers to Him.
Brahmaandakotayah katyaam
yasyaasau paatu me katim
Guhyam me paatu guhyaanaam
mantraanaam guhya roopadhrik
May Lord Narasimha, on whose hips rest various worlds, protect my hips and private parts. He knows all the ‘Mantras’ and secret matters, but He Himself is not visible.
Nrisimho rasanaam mama
Vaktram
paatvinduvadanassadaa
Prahlaada-vanditah
May Lord Narasimha, who is superior in all forms of education, protect my sense of taste. May He whose face is as beautiful as the Moon, to whom worship is offered by Prahlada, protect my face.
Nrisimhah paatu me kantham
skandhau bhoobharanaantakrit
Divyaastra shobhitabhujo
Nrisimhah paatu me bhujam
May Lord Narasimha protect my throat. He sustains the earth and performs great things. His shoulders are lustrous with divine weapons. May He Protect my shoulders.
Karau me devavarado
Nrisimhah paatu sarvatah
Hridayam yogisaadhyascha
nivaasam paatu me Harih
May the Lord Narasimha who showers boons on the gods, protect my hands and from all sides. May Lord Hari who is attained by the Yogis, protect my heart and my residence.
Madhyam paatu Hiranyaksha
vakshah-kukshividaaranah
Naabhim me paatu
Nriharisvanaabhi Brahma
samstutah
May He who tore open the chest and the stomach of the asura, Hiranyakasipu, protect my waist and navel. Brahma, who has arisen from Lord Narasimha’s navel, offers prayers to Him.
Brahmaandakotayah katyaam
yasyaasau paatu me katim
Guhyam me paatu guhyaanaam
mantraanaam guhya roopadhrik
May Lord Narasimha, on whose hips rest various worlds, protect my hips and private parts. He knows all the ‘Mantras’ and secret matters, but He Himself is not visible.
Hymns and Stotras - M S Rajajee - Part III
Part III
Sri Nrisimhaashtotra Sata Naama Stotram
Srinrisimho mahaasimho divya simho mahaabalah!
Ugrasimho mahadeva upendraschchagnilochnah!!
Raudrah saurir mahaaveerah suvikrama paraakramah!
Harihkolaahalah chakree vijayaschchajayo' vyayah!!
Daityanthakah parabrahmaapyaghoro ghoravikramah!!!
Jvaalaamukho jvaalamaalee mahaajvaalo mahaaprabhuh!!
Nitilaakshah sahasraaksho durnireekshyah prathaapanah!
Mahaadamshtraayudhah praajno Hiranyakanishoodanah!!
Chandakopee suraarighnah sadaartighnah sadasivah!
Gunabhadro mahaabhadro balabhadrah subhadrakah!!
Karaalo vikaraalascha gataayussarvakartrukah!
Bairavaadambaro divyah scaaamyah sarvasatrujit!!
Amoghaastrah sastradharo savyakootah suresvarah!
Sahasrabaahur vajjranakhah arvasiddhir janaardhanah!!
Ananto bhagavaan sthoola scaagamyascha paraavarah!
Sarvamantraikaroopascha sarvayantravidaaranah!!
Avyayah paramaandah kaalajit khagavaahanah!
Bhaktaativatsalo vyaktah suvyaktassulabhah suchih!!
Lokaikanaayakas sarvasaranaagatavatsalah!
Dheero darascha sarvajno bheemo bheemaparaakramah!!
Devapriyo nutha: poojyo bhavahrit paramesvarah!
Srivatsavakshaah sreevaaso vibhus sankarshanah prabhuh!!
Trivikramas trilokaatmaa kaalas sarvesvaresvarah!
Visvambarah stiraabhaaryah schaachytah Purushottamah!!
Adhokshajo ‘kshayas sevyo vanamaalee prakampanah!
Gurur lokaguruh srashtaa paramjyotih paraayanah!!
Jvaalaahobilamaalolakroda-kaaranja bhargavaah!
Yogaanandah chatravatah paavano navamoortayah!!
Sri Nrisimhaashtotra Sata Naama Stotram
Srinrisimho mahaasimho divya simho mahaabalah!
Ugrasimho mahadeva upendraschchagnilochnah!!
Raudrah saurir mahaaveerah suvikrama paraakramah!
Harihkolaahalah chakree vijayaschchajayo' vyayah!!
Daityanthakah parabrahmaapyaghoro ghoravikramah!!!
Jvaalaamukho jvaalamaalee mahaajvaalo mahaaprabhuh!!
Nitilaakshah sahasraaksho durnireekshyah prathaapanah!
Mahaadamshtraayudhah praajno Hiranyakanishoodanah!!
Chandakopee suraarighnah sadaartighnah sadasivah!
Gunabhadro mahaabhadro balabhadrah subhadrakah!!
Karaalo vikaraalascha gataayussarvakartrukah!
Bairavaadambaro divyah scaaamyah sarvasatrujit!!
Amoghaastrah sastradharo savyakootah suresvarah!
Sahasrabaahur vajjranakhah arvasiddhir janaardhanah!!
Ananto bhagavaan sthoola scaagamyascha paraavarah!
Sarvamantraikaroopascha sarvayantravidaaranah!!
Avyayah paramaandah kaalajit khagavaahanah!
Bhaktaativatsalo vyaktah suvyaktassulabhah suchih!!
Lokaikanaayakas sarvasaranaagatavatsalah!
Dheero darascha sarvajno bheemo bheemaparaakramah!!
Devapriyo nutha: poojyo bhavahrit paramesvarah!
Srivatsavakshaah sreevaaso vibhus sankarshanah prabhuh!!
Trivikramas trilokaatmaa kaalas sarvesvaresvarah!
Visvambarah stiraabhaaryah schaachytah Purushottamah!!
Adhokshajo ‘kshayas sevyo vanamaalee prakampanah!
Gurur lokaguruh srashtaa paramjyotih paraayanah!!
Jvaalaahobilamaalolakroda-kaaranja bhargavaah!
Yogaanandah chatravatah paavano navamoortayah!!
Hymns and Stotras - M S Rajajee- Part II
Baddhvaa kasairyamabhataa bahu bhartsayanti
Karshanti yatra pathi paasasatair yadaa maam
Ekaakinam paravasam chakitam dayaalo
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
I do not know where the attendants of Yama will drag me, thrashing me with whips and binding me with ropes. At that time, I will be alone and have no control over my mind. You are an ocean of compassion. O! Lakshmi Narasimha, at that time (also), You must give me a helping hand and save me.
Andhasya me Britaviveka-mahaadhanasya
chorairmahaabalibhir indriyanaamdheyaih
mohaandhakaara kuhare vinipaatitasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
Very powerful thieves called the senses have made me a blind person due to my desires. They have stolen my great treasure called wisdom. They have thrown me into a dark well. I am already blind. There is only great darkness. O! Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Lakshmipate! Kamalanaabha! Suresa! Vishno
Yajnesa! Yajna! Madhusoodana! Vishvaroopa!
Brahmanya! Kesava! Janaardana! Vaasudeva!
Lakshminrsimha Mama dehi karaavalambam
O Lord of Lakshmi, You who have a lotus in Your navel, You who are the Lord of all gods, You who have spread all over, You who are the Lord (controller) of all ‘yajnas’, You who Yourself are the ‘Yajna’, You who killed the asura called Madhu, You who have the Universe as Your Form, You who do good to the brahmanas, You who can ensure that there is no rebirth (for us), O! son of Vasudeva, O! Lakshmi Narasimha, extend a helping hand and save me.
Karshanti yatra pathi paasasatair yadaa maam
Ekaakinam paravasam chakitam dayaalo
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
I do not know where the attendants of Yama will drag me, thrashing me with whips and binding me with ropes. At that time, I will be alone and have no control over my mind. You are an ocean of compassion. O! Lakshmi Narasimha, at that time (also), You must give me a helping hand and save me.
Andhasya me Britaviveka-mahaadhanasya
chorairmahaabalibhir indriyanaamdheyaih
mohaandhakaara kuhare vinipaatitasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
Very powerful thieves called the senses have made me a blind person due to my desires. They have stolen my great treasure called wisdom. They have thrown me into a dark well. I am already blind. There is only great darkness. O! Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Lakshmipate! Kamalanaabha! Suresa! Vishno
Yajnesa! Yajna! Madhusoodana! Vishvaroopa!
Brahmanya! Kesava! Janaardana! Vaasudeva!
Lakshminrsimha Mama dehi karaavalambam
O Lord of Lakshmi, You who have a lotus in Your navel, You who are the Lord of all gods, You who have spread all over, You who are the Lord (controller) of all ‘yajnas’, You who Yourself are the ‘Yajna’, You who killed the asura called Madhu, You who have the Universe as Your Form, You who do good to the brahmanas, You who can ensure that there is no rebirth (for us), O! son of Vasudeva, O! Lakshmi Narasimha, extend a helping hand and save me.
Hymns and Stotras - M S Rajajee - Part I
There are many Stotras on Lord Narasimha. It would not be possible to reproduce all of them and give their meaning. We give hereunder 35 Stotras. We believe that the list is adequately wide-ranging, as many well-known Stotras have been covered, as also the Stotras of well-known scholars/sages like Sri Sankara Bhagavatpada, Sri Vedanta Desika and others. There is no special significance about the order in which they have been presented and it is certainly not the intention to indicate that what is presented first is relatively more important than what is presented last. It would be a sacrilege to think like that, as all the hymns are in praise of the Lord and are intended for specific objectives. Generally speaking, the "phalashruti" of most of these Stotras is to ward off dangers, to ensure victory over enemies (in the largest sense of that term, including internal enemies) to ensure that all that is good and great is attained and to ensure liberation.
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Pancharatna Stotram – by Sri Adi Sankara
Tvatprabhu jeevapriyam ichhasichennarahari poojaam kuru satatam
Pratibimbaalamkriti dhrutikusalo bimbaalamkriti maatanute
Chetobhringa bhrhamasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja bhaja Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha pada sarasija makarandam
O! the carpenter bee called the mind! Why do you wastefully move about in the desert called the essenceless "Samsara"? Please taste, with happiness, the honey which is in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha. The skilful person who decorates and watches the reflection (jiva) would first decorate the main figure (Isvara), is it not? Similarly, if you desire the love of the ‘jiva’, first do not let go of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha. Please worship Him.
Shuktau rajata pratibhaa jaataa katakaadyartha samarthaachet
Duhkhamayee te samsrutireshaa nirvritidaane nipunaa syaat
Cheto bhringa bhramasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja bhaja Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija Makarandam
If the silver seen in a shell is capable of becoming bracelet etc., then it is possible to derive happiness from this Samsara which is full of sorrow. But such a thing does not happen. Hence, O bee called the mind, why move about wastefully in the desert land called ‘Samsara’? You please partake with reverence the honey in the lotus which is the feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Aakritisaamyaachhalmalikusume sthalanalinatvabhramam akaroh
Gandharasaaviha kimu vidyete viphalam shraamyasi bhoomau virasaayaam
Cheto bhringa bhramasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayam
Bhaja bhaja Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija makarandam
Because of the similarity of shape, the flower of the silk cotton tree is mistaken as the ground lotus flower. In the essenceless flower of the silk cotton tree is there fragrance or honey? You are under a delusion. Hence, O! carpenter bee called the mind, why do you wander in the essenceless wasted desert land? You please partake with reverence the honey in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Srakchandana vanitaadeen vishayaan sukhadaan matvaa tatra viharase
Gandhaphalee sadrisaa nanu temee bhogaanantara duhkha kritah syuh
Cheto bhringa!bhramasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja! Bhaja! Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija makarandam
You are thinking that pleasurable items like garlands, sandal paste and women will give you happiness and are enjoying them. But, like the Champaka flower, they will only cause unhappiness after enjoying them. Hence, O! carpenter bee called the mind, why need you wander in the essenceless wasted desert land called the ‘Samsara’? Please reverentially partake the honey in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Tava hitam ekam vachanam vakshye shrunu! Sukhakaamoyadi satatam
Svapne dhrishtam sakalam hi mrishaa jaagrata cha smara tadvaditi
Cheto bhringa!bhramasi vrithaa bhava marubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja! Bhaja! Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija makarandam
If you really desire happiness, I will give you some good advice. Please listen. Just as whatever we see in the ‘dream’ state is not real, please remember that whatever you see in the state of wakefulness is also not real. Hence, O! carpenter bee called the mind, why do you wastefully wander in the essenceless wasted desert land called the ‘Samsara’? You please partake with reverence the honey in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Karavalamba Stotra
This Stotra is by Sri Adi Sankara. There is a popular story behind the writing of this Stotra – we do not know how true it is. Adi Sankara was on a triumphal tour of the country, defeating all the religious disputants he came across. When he reached Benares, he came across Mandana Misra, a greatly learned debater. Sankar was about to defeat Mandana Misra, in the religious and philosophical debate, when Ubhaya Bharati, the wife of Mandana Misra, joined the debate and said that success would be complete, only if she were also defeated. The debate went on for a few days. She realized that it would not be ordinarily possible to defeat him. Since Sri Sankara was a Brahmachari, she turned the debate into matters pertaining to Kaama Saastra. She realized that if Sankara replied, he would face public humiliation, as they would wonder how a brahmachari was able to reply authoritatively on such matters. Sri Sankara sought some time to reply. He came across the body of a king. All his wives were bemoaning his death. He told his disciples to hide his own body at some distance. He told them that he would be silently entering the body of the king. Much to the amazement of the wives and the counselors, the "dead" king sat up. The "king" enjoyed himself. The Queen Empress, however, had doubts and shared her misgivings with the counselors. The ministers also told her that unlike the earlier king, this one was very learned in all branches. The Empress Queen then ordered that it would be best to retain whosoever it was, in this body itself and that all the dead bodies in the kingdom should be burnt and destroyed. When the attendants started doing this, the disciples, as they had already been ordered to do so, recited "tattvamasi tattvamasi tattvamasi raajan". As soon as Sri Sankara heard this, he abandoned the king’s body and re-entered his own body. Since by that time, the body had been set fire to a very small extent at one end, Sri Sankara hymned the Lord, with the refrain, "Lakshmi Nrsimha! Mama dehi Karaavalambam". The body retained its usual luster. This Stotra has great power and since then has been recited by all those who wish to ward off any dangers. It has become the "aapadaudhaaraka stotra" supreme.
We give below the Stotra and the meaning. There are some variations in the readings of the Stotra and what we have given hereunder is what is generally found in most of the texts.
Sreematpayonidhi niketana chakrapaane
Bhogeendra bhoga maniranjita punyamoorthe
Yogeesa saasvata saranya bhavaabdhipota
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who always reside along with Goddess Mahalakshmi in the middle of the milk ocean! You who are adorned by the Discus in Your hand. You who have a Form which confers good and You who are shining due to the effulgence of the precious stones in the hoods of Adisesha, on whom You are resting, You who are Isvara to the supreme yogis, You who have no beginning or middle or end, You who provide refuge, You who are the raft to enable us to cross the ocean consisting of birth and death, O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please give me a helping hand.
Brahmendra rudra marudarka kireetakoti
Samghattitaanghrikamalaamala kaantikaanta
Lakshmi lasatkucha saroruha raajahamsa
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
You who have feet which throws out flashes of lightning due to the contact with the crowns of the four-headed Brahma, Indra, the king of the gods, the Rudraas, the seven Maruts and the twelve ‘Sooryas’ who are always ceremonially washing Your feet, You who move about freely like a "raaja hamsa" (king among swans) amidst the shining breasts of Goddess Lakshmi. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please give me a helping hand.
Samsaara ghoragahane charato muraare
Maarogra bheekara mriga pravaraarditasya
Aartasya matsara nidaagha nipeeditasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O Lord! You who killed the asura called Mura, I am struggling and wandering, having been trapped and lost my way in the frightening forest called "Samsara". I am distressed, since I am chased by the frightening animal called "lust". I am shrinking, being affected by the scorching Sun called "envy" in this forest called "Samsara".
Samsaara saagara visaala karaala kaala
Nakragraha grasana nigraha vigrahasya
Vyagrasya raaga rasonormi nipeeditasya
Lakshminrsimha Mama dehi karaavalambam
I am struggling in the great ocean called "Samsara" which has spread extensively and the limits of which cannot be seen in any direction. An alligator called ‘lust’ which has sharp canine teeth has caught hold of me. However, much I try to control myself I am unable to do so. Minute by minute, this alligator is biting my body. As if these troubles are not enough, worldly troubles like anger, jealousy, arrogance malice etc. are striking me like big waves and are not allowing me to be stable. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaarakoopam atighoram agaadhamoolam
sampraapya duhkhasata-sarpasamaakulasya
Deenasya deva! Kripayaa saranaagatasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O Lord! I have fallen into a well which is full of grief, is frightening, pitch dark and the depth of which cannot be measured. The sorrows I am suffering here are each like a horrifying serpent and there are hundreds of them which are surrounding me. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara bheekara kareendra karaabhighaata
Nishpeedyamaana vapushah sakalaarditasya
Praana prayaana bhavabheeti samaakulasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
However much I try to control this elephant called ‘Samsara’, this elephant which has power and speed, beats me with its trunk. My body has been reduced due to these blows. The limbs are losing their strength and are becoming decrepit. I am still sorrowing that this life will leave me. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara sarpa ghanavaktra bhayograteevra
Damshtraakaraala vishadagdha vinashtamoorteh
Naagaarivaahana sudhaabdhinivaasa saure!
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who have Garuda as the vehicle, You who are resting on the milk ocean, O! valourous person, my body has been destroyed by the horrible poison released by the frightening, cruel and sharp fangs of the serpent called ‘Samsara’. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaarajaala patitasya jagannivaasa
Sarvendriyaartha badisa agra-jhashopamasya
Prottambhita prachura taalukamastyakasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who pervade all the worlds, I am ensnared and caught in the net called ‘Samsara’, I am enslaved by all the matters pertaining to the senses (taste, smell etc.) I am struggling, as a fish struggles in a net. My head has become bent and my cheeks and lips have opened out (due to the struggle). O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaravriksham aghabeejam anantakarma-
Saakhaayutam karanapatram anangapushpam
Aaruhya duhkhajaladhau patato dayaalo
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
I have fallen into an ocean of sorrow, since I have climbed a tree called bad ‘Samsara’ which is born and bred in sin, has got branches called evil deeds, has got the senses as the leaves and has Manmatha as the flower. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaaradaavadahaanaakula bheekarogra
Jvaalaavaleebhir-abhidagdhatanooruhasya
Tvatpaadayugma saraseeruha mastakasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
All the hair on my limbs have got scorched due to the fierce and cruel flames, coming at me from all directions due to the raging forest fire. I am placing my head on Your feet and am meditating. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara saagara nimajjanamuhyamaanam
Deenam vilokaya vibho karunaanidhe maam
Prahlaada kheda parihaara paraavataara
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
You who are like a treasure chest for compassion, You who rid Prahlada of his sorrows. You who have manifested in many excellent forms, I am sinking and going to faint, having fallen into the ocean called ‘Samsaara’. I do not know what to do. Please look at me. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaarayoothagajasamhati-simhadamshtraa
roopena dushtamatidaitya bhayankarena
Praana prayaana bhavabheeti nivaaranena
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
I am frightened by ‘Samsara’ which is like the evil group of elephants. Please show me that auspicious Form of Yours, which creates fear in the minds of the cruel rakshasas and gets rid of the fear entertained by people when life is about to leave them. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara yogisakalepsita nityakarma
Sampraapya duhkhasakalendriya-mrityunaasa
Sankalpa sindhutanayaakucha kunkumaanka
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who have the divine Will (Sankalpa) to grant all the desires which arise out of the contact due to ‘Samsara’ and can also rid one of the sorrows which are occasioned in the senses due to their eternal actions as also rid one of death. You are adorned by the ‘Kumkum’ on the breasts of Goddess Lakshmi, the daughter of the King of Oceans. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
(This can also be given the meaning as follows: - O! Lakshmi Narasimha, You who are adorned by the ‘Kumkum’ on the breasts of Goddess Lakshmi, the daughter of the Ocean King, who can rid one of all the difficulties arising in this ‘Samsara’, please lend a helping hand and save me.)
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Pancharatna Stotram – by Sri Adi Sankara
Tvatprabhu jeevapriyam ichhasichennarahari poojaam kuru satatam
Pratibimbaalamkriti dhrutikusalo bimbaalamkriti maatanute
Chetobhringa bhrhamasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja bhaja Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha pada sarasija makarandam
O! the carpenter bee called the mind! Why do you wastefully move about in the desert called the essenceless "Samsara"? Please taste, with happiness, the honey which is in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha. The skilful person who decorates and watches the reflection (jiva) would first decorate the main figure (Isvara), is it not? Similarly, if you desire the love of the ‘jiva’, first do not let go of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha. Please worship Him.
Shuktau rajata pratibhaa jaataa katakaadyartha samarthaachet
Duhkhamayee te samsrutireshaa nirvritidaane nipunaa syaat
Cheto bhringa bhramasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja bhaja Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija Makarandam
If the silver seen in a shell is capable of becoming bracelet etc., then it is possible to derive happiness from this Samsara which is full of sorrow. But such a thing does not happen. Hence, O bee called the mind, why move about wastefully in the desert land called ‘Samsara’? You please partake with reverence the honey in the lotus which is the feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Aakritisaamyaachhalmalikusume sthalanalinatvabhramam akaroh
Gandharasaaviha kimu vidyete viphalam shraamyasi bhoomau virasaayaam
Cheto bhringa bhramasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayam
Bhaja bhaja Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija makarandam
Because of the similarity of shape, the flower of the silk cotton tree is mistaken as the ground lotus flower. In the essenceless flower of the silk cotton tree is there fragrance or honey? You are under a delusion. Hence, O! carpenter bee called the mind, why do you wander in the essenceless wasted desert land? You please partake with reverence the honey in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Srakchandana vanitaadeen vishayaan sukhadaan matvaa tatra viharase
Gandhaphalee sadrisaa nanu temee bhogaanantara duhkha kritah syuh
Cheto bhringa!bhramasi vrithaa bhavamarubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja! Bhaja! Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija makarandam
You are thinking that pleasurable items like garlands, sandal paste and women will give you happiness and are enjoying them. But, like the Champaka flower, they will only cause unhappiness after enjoying them. Hence, O! carpenter bee called the mind, why need you wander in the essenceless wasted desert land called the ‘Samsara’? Please reverentially partake the honey in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Tava hitam ekam vachanam vakshye shrunu! Sukhakaamoyadi satatam
Svapne dhrishtam sakalam hi mrishaa jaagrata cha smara tadvaditi
Cheto bhringa!bhramasi vrithaa bhava marubhoomau virasaayaam
Bhaja! Bhaja! Lakshmi Narasimhaanagha padasarasija makarandam
If you really desire happiness, I will give you some good advice. Please listen. Just as whatever we see in the ‘dream’ state is not real, please remember that whatever you see in the state of wakefulness is also not real. Hence, O! carpenter bee called the mind, why do you wastefully wander in the essenceless wasted desert land called the ‘Samsara’? You please partake with reverence the honey in the lotus feet of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Karavalamba Stotra
This Stotra is by Sri Adi Sankara. There is a popular story behind the writing of this Stotra – we do not know how true it is. Adi Sankara was on a triumphal tour of the country, defeating all the religious disputants he came across. When he reached Benares, he came across Mandana Misra, a greatly learned debater. Sankar was about to defeat Mandana Misra, in the religious and philosophical debate, when Ubhaya Bharati, the wife of Mandana Misra, joined the debate and said that success would be complete, only if she were also defeated. The debate went on for a few days. She realized that it would not be ordinarily possible to defeat him. Since Sri Sankara was a Brahmachari, she turned the debate into matters pertaining to Kaama Saastra. She realized that if Sankara replied, he would face public humiliation, as they would wonder how a brahmachari was able to reply authoritatively on such matters. Sri Sankara sought some time to reply. He came across the body of a king. All his wives were bemoaning his death. He told his disciples to hide his own body at some distance. He told them that he would be silently entering the body of the king. Much to the amazement of the wives and the counselors, the "dead" king sat up. The "king" enjoyed himself. The Queen Empress, however, had doubts and shared her misgivings with the counselors. The ministers also told her that unlike the earlier king, this one was very learned in all branches. The Empress Queen then ordered that it would be best to retain whosoever it was, in this body itself and that all the dead bodies in the kingdom should be burnt and destroyed. When the attendants started doing this, the disciples, as they had already been ordered to do so, recited "tattvamasi tattvamasi tattvamasi raajan". As soon as Sri Sankara heard this, he abandoned the king’s body and re-entered his own body. Since by that time, the body had been set fire to a very small extent at one end, Sri Sankara hymned the Lord, with the refrain, "Lakshmi Nrsimha! Mama dehi Karaavalambam". The body retained its usual luster. This Stotra has great power and since then has been recited by all those who wish to ward off any dangers. It has become the "aapadaudhaaraka stotra" supreme.
We give below the Stotra and the meaning. There are some variations in the readings of the Stotra and what we have given hereunder is what is generally found in most of the texts.
Sreematpayonidhi niketana chakrapaane
Bhogeendra bhoga maniranjita punyamoorthe
Yogeesa saasvata saranya bhavaabdhipota
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who always reside along with Goddess Mahalakshmi in the middle of the milk ocean! You who are adorned by the Discus in Your hand. You who have a Form which confers good and You who are shining due to the effulgence of the precious stones in the hoods of Adisesha, on whom You are resting, You who are Isvara to the supreme yogis, You who have no beginning or middle or end, You who provide refuge, You who are the raft to enable us to cross the ocean consisting of birth and death, O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please give me a helping hand.
Brahmendra rudra marudarka kireetakoti
Samghattitaanghrikamalaamala kaantikaanta
Lakshmi lasatkucha saroruha raajahamsa
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
You who have feet which throws out flashes of lightning due to the contact with the crowns of the four-headed Brahma, Indra, the king of the gods, the Rudraas, the seven Maruts and the twelve ‘Sooryas’ who are always ceremonially washing Your feet, You who move about freely like a "raaja hamsa" (king among swans) amidst the shining breasts of Goddess Lakshmi. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please give me a helping hand.
Samsaara ghoragahane charato muraare
Maarogra bheekara mriga pravaraarditasya
Aartasya matsara nidaagha nipeeditasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O Lord! You who killed the asura called Mura, I am struggling and wandering, having been trapped and lost my way in the frightening forest called "Samsara". I am distressed, since I am chased by the frightening animal called "lust". I am shrinking, being affected by the scorching Sun called "envy" in this forest called "Samsara".
Samsaara saagara visaala karaala kaala
Nakragraha grasana nigraha vigrahasya
Vyagrasya raaga rasonormi nipeeditasya
Lakshminrsimha Mama dehi karaavalambam
I am struggling in the great ocean called "Samsara" which has spread extensively and the limits of which cannot be seen in any direction. An alligator called ‘lust’ which has sharp canine teeth has caught hold of me. However, much I try to control myself I am unable to do so. Minute by minute, this alligator is biting my body. As if these troubles are not enough, worldly troubles like anger, jealousy, arrogance malice etc. are striking me like big waves and are not allowing me to be stable. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaarakoopam atighoram agaadhamoolam
sampraapya duhkhasata-sarpasamaakulasya
Deenasya deva! Kripayaa saranaagatasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O Lord! I have fallen into a well which is full of grief, is frightening, pitch dark and the depth of which cannot be measured. The sorrows I am suffering here are each like a horrifying serpent and there are hundreds of them which are surrounding me. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara bheekara kareendra karaabhighaata
Nishpeedyamaana vapushah sakalaarditasya
Praana prayaana bhavabheeti samaakulasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
However much I try to control this elephant called ‘Samsara’, this elephant which has power and speed, beats me with its trunk. My body has been reduced due to these blows. The limbs are losing their strength and are becoming decrepit. I am still sorrowing that this life will leave me. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara sarpa ghanavaktra bhayograteevra
Damshtraakaraala vishadagdha vinashtamoorteh
Naagaarivaahana sudhaabdhinivaasa saure!
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who have Garuda as the vehicle, You who are resting on the milk ocean, O! valourous person, my body has been destroyed by the horrible poison released by the frightening, cruel and sharp fangs of the serpent called ‘Samsara’. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaarajaala patitasya jagannivaasa
Sarvendriyaartha badisa agra-jhashopamasya
Prottambhita prachura taalukamastyakasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who pervade all the worlds, I am ensnared and caught in the net called ‘Samsara’, I am enslaved by all the matters pertaining to the senses (taste, smell etc.) I am struggling, as a fish struggles in a net. My head has become bent and my cheeks and lips have opened out (due to the struggle). O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaravriksham aghabeejam anantakarma-
Saakhaayutam karanapatram anangapushpam
Aaruhya duhkhajaladhau patato dayaalo
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
I have fallen into an ocean of sorrow, since I have climbed a tree called bad ‘Samsara’ which is born and bred in sin, has got branches called evil deeds, has got the senses as the leaves and has Manmatha as the flower. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaaradaavadahaanaakula bheekarogra
Jvaalaavaleebhir-abhidagdhatanooruhasya
Tvatpaadayugma saraseeruha mastakasya
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
All the hair on my limbs have got scorched due to the fierce and cruel flames, coming at me from all directions due to the raging forest fire. I am placing my head on Your feet and am meditating. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara saagara nimajjanamuhyamaanam
Deenam vilokaya vibho karunaanidhe maam
Prahlaada kheda parihaara paraavataara
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
You who are like a treasure chest for compassion, You who rid Prahlada of his sorrows. You who have manifested in many excellent forms, I am sinking and going to faint, having fallen into the ocean called ‘Samsaara’. I do not know what to do. Please look at me. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaarayoothagajasamhati-simhadamshtraa
roopena dushtamatidaitya bhayankarena
Praana prayaana bhavabheeti nivaaranena
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
I am frightened by ‘Samsara’ which is like the evil group of elephants. Please show me that auspicious Form of Yours, which creates fear in the minds of the cruel rakshasas and gets rid of the fear entertained by people when life is about to leave them. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
Samsaara yogisakalepsita nityakarma
Sampraapya duhkhasakalendriya-mrityunaasa
Sankalpa sindhutanayaakucha kunkumaanka
Lakshminrsimha! Mama dehi karaavalambam
O! You who have the divine Will (Sankalpa) to grant all the desires which arise out of the contact due to ‘Samsara’ and can also rid one of the sorrows which are occasioned in the senses due to their eternal actions as also rid one of death. You are adorned by the ‘Kumkum’ on the breasts of Goddess Lakshmi, the daughter of the King of Oceans. O! Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, please extend a helping hand and save me.
(This can also be given the meaning as follows: - O! Lakshmi Narasimha, You who are adorned by the ‘Kumkum’ on the breasts of Goddess Lakshmi, the daughter of the Ocean King, who can rid one of all the difficulties arising in this ‘Samsara’, please lend a helping hand and save me.)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)