Sri Damodarashtakam
श्री दामोदराष्टकम्|Śrī Dāmodarāṣṭakam|Eight Prayers to Lord Damodara
Also known as: Damodarashtaka · Damodara Ashtakam · Kartik Damodarashtakam
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नमामीश्वरं सच्चिदानन्दरूपंलसत्कुण्डलं गोकुले भ्राजमानम् ।यशोदाभियोलूखला धावमानंपरामृष्टमत्यन्ततो द्रुत्य गोप्या ॥ १ ॥
रुदन्तं मुहुर्नेत्रयुग्मं मृजन्तंकराम्भोजयुग्मेन सातङ्कनेत्रम् ।मुहुः श्वासकम्पत्रिरेखङ्ककण्ठस्थितग्रैवं दामोदरं भक्तिबद्धम् ॥ २ ॥
इतीदृक्स्वलीलाभिरानन्दकुण्डेस्वघोषं निमज्जन्तमाख्यापयन्तम् ।तदीयेशितज्ञेषु भक्तैर्जितत्वंपुनः प्रेमतस्तं शतावृत्ति वन्दे ॥ ३ ॥
वरं देव मोक्षं न मोक्षावधिं वान चान्यं वृणेऽहं वरेशादपीह ।इदं ते वपुर्नाथ गोपालबालंसदा मे मनस्याविरास्तां किमन्यैः ॥ ४ ॥
इदं ते मुखाम्भोजमत्यन्तनीलैर्वृतं कुन्तलैः स्निग्ध रक्तैश्च गोप्य ।मुहुश्चुम्बितं बिम्बरक्ताधरं मेमनस्याविरास्तामलं लक्षलाभैः ॥ ५ ॥
नमो देव दामोदरानन्त विष्णोप्रसीद प्रभो दुःखजालाब्धिमग्नम् ।कृपादृष्टिवृष्ट्यातिदीनं बतानुगृहाणेष मामज्ञमेध्यक्षिदृश्यः ॥ ६ ॥
कुबेरात्मजौ बद्धमूर्त्यैव यद्वत्त्वया मोचितौ भक्तिभाजौ कृतौ च ।तथा प्रेमभक्तिं स्वकां मे प्रयच्छन मोक्षे ग्रहो मेऽस्ति दामोदरेह ॥ ७ ॥
नमस्तेऽस्तु दाम्ने स्फुरद्दीप्तिधाम्नेत्वदीयोदरायाथ विश्वस्य धाम्ने ।नमो राधिकायै त्वदीयप्रियायैनमोऽनन्तलीलाय देवाय तुभ्यम् ॥ ८ ॥
नमामीश्वरं सच्चिदानन्दरूपं लसत्कुण्डलं गोकुले भ्राजमानम् । यशोदाभियोलूखला धावमानं परामृष्टमत्यन्ततो द्रुत्य गोप्या ॥ १ ॥ रुदन्तं मुहुर्नेत्रयुग्मं मृजन्तं कराम्भोजयुग्मेन सातङ्कनेत्रम् । मुहुः श्वासकम्पत्रिरेखङ्ककण्ठ स्थितग्रैवं दामोदरं भक्तिबद्धम् ॥ २ ॥ इतीदृक्स्वलीलाभिरानन्दकुण्डे स्वघोषं निमज्जन्तमाख्यापयन्तम् । तदीयेशितज्ञेषु भक्तैर्जितत्वं पुनः प्रेमतस्तं शतावृत्ति वन्दे ॥ ३ ॥ वरं देव मोक्षं न मोक्षावधिं वा न चान्यं वृणेऽहं वरेशादपीह । इदं ते वपुर्नाथ गोपालबालं सदा मे मनस्याविरास्तां किमन्यैः ॥ ४ ॥ इदं ते मुखाम्भोजमत्यन्तनीलै र्वृतं कुन्तलैः स्निग्ध रक्तैश्च गोप्य । मुहुश्चुम्बितं बिम्बरक्ताधरं मे मनस्याविरास्तामलं लक्षलाभैः ॥ ५ ॥ नमो देव दामोदरानन्त विष्णो प्रसीद प्रभो दुःखजालाब्धिमग्नम् । कृपादृष्टिवृष्ट्यातिदीनं बतानु गृहाणेष मामज्ञमेध्यक्षिदृश्यः ॥ ६ ॥ कुबेरात्मजौ बद्धमूर्त्यैव यद्वत् त्वया मोचितौ भक्तिभाजौ कृतौ च । तथा प्रेमभक्तिं स्वकां मे प्रयच्छ न मोक्षे ग्रहो मेऽस्ति दामोदरेह ॥ ७ ॥ नमस्तेऽस्तु दाम्ने स्फुरद्दीप्तिधाम्ने त्वदीयोदरायाथ विश्वस्य धाम्ने । नमो राधिकायै त्वदीयप्रियायै नमोऽनन्तलीलाय देवाय तुभ्यम् ॥ ८ ॥
To the Supreme Controller, whose form is eternal, full of knowledge and bliss, whose shining earrings swing to and fro, who is splendidly manifest in Gokula, I offer my humble obeisances. He is running in fear of Mother Yashoda, who is chasing Him, and is caught from behind by her who is running very quickly. (I offer my obeisances) to Lord Damodara, who is bound by devotion, who is crying and repeatedly rubbing His two lotus eyes with His two lotus hands, whose eyes are filled with fear, and whose pearl necklace, marked with three lines, trembles with His repeated gasps of breath. By such childhood pastimes, He submerges His own devotees in pools of ecstasy and reveals to those who are aware of His supreme majesty that He is conquered only by His devotees. I repeatedly offer my obeisances with great love to that Lord. O Lord, I do not pray to You for liberation, nor for the eternal abode of Vaikuntha, nor for any other boon, even if it is offered by the greatest of givers. O Lord, may this form of Yours as a cowherd boy always be manifest in my mind. What need have I for any other boons? O Lord, may Your lotus face, surrounded by soft, dark, and reddish curling hair, which is repeatedly kissed by Mother Yashoda, and whose lips are red like the bimba fruit, always be manifest in my mind. What need have I for millions of other gains? O Lord Damodara, O Ananta, O Vishnu! Be pleased with me, O Master! I am immersed in an ocean of miseries. Please bestow Your merciful glance upon me, a most wretched and ignorant person, and make Yourself visible to my eyes. Just as the two sons of Kuvera, Manigriva and Nalakūvara, were delivered from their cursed state and made into great devotees by You, who were then bound to a wooden mortar, please bestow upon me Your own pure devotional love. I have no desire for liberation, O Damodara, in this world. Obeisances to the rope that bound You, which is a source of brilliant effulgence! Obeisances to Your belly, which is the abode of the entire universe! Obeisances to Srimati Radhika, Your most beloved! Obeisances to You, O Lord, who performs unlimited pastimes!
The translation aims for literal accuracy while conveying the devotional mood and poetic nuances of the original Sanskrit. Stanza breaks are preserved to match the original verses.
Sri Damodarashtakam is an ancient and profoundly significant Sanskrit prayer, composed of eight verses (ashtakam), that glorifies Lord Krishna in His childhood form as Damodara. This beautiful hymn is found in the Padma Purana, specifically in the Uttarakhanda section, and is attributed to the sage Satyavrata Muni. Its historical roots trace back thousands of years, making it a timeless piece of devotional literature within the Hindu tradition, particularly for followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. The prayer recounts the famous pastime (lila) where young Krishna, after stealing butter, is playfully chastised and bound by His loving mother Yashoda with a rope around His belly (dama means rope, udara means belly, hence Damodara). This lila beautifully illustrates the concept that the Supreme Lord, who is otherwise unbound and unconquerable, can be bound by the pure love of His devotees. The cultural significance of Damodarashtakam is immense, especially within the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. It is most prominently recited throughout the month of Kartik (October-November), which is considered the most sacred month for devotional practices. During Kartik, devotees observe various vows and rituals, and the daily recitation of Damodarashtakam, often accompanied by offering a ghee lamp to Lord Damodara, is a central practice. This ritual is believed to bestow immense spiritual benefits and deepen one's devotion. The prayer evokes *vatsalya rasa*, the mood of parental affection, allowing devotees to connect with Krishna's intimate and endearing childhood form. It is sung in temples, ashrams, and homes worldwide, fostering a deep sense of intimacy and love for the Divine. In terms of performance context, Damodarashtakam is typically sung as a bhajan or kirtan. While it can be recited individually, it is often sung congregationally, especially during morning (mangala arati) and evening programs in Vaishnava temples. The melody is usually simple and meditative, allowing devotees to focus on the profound meaning of the verses. Common instruments accompanying its recitation include the harmonium, mridanga (a two-headed drum), and kartals (hand cymbals), which create a rhythmic and uplifting atmosphere conducive to devotion. The singing style is generally melodic and heartfelt, encouraging participation from all present. Today, Sri Damodarashtakam continues to be a cornerstone of devotional practice for millions of Vaishnavas. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport the devotee to the intimate pastimes of Krishna in Vrindavan, fostering a personal and loving relationship with God. It serves as a powerful reminder that true spiritual advancement comes not from material opulence or even liberation, but from pure, unalloyed love for the Supreme Lord. Modern adaptations often include musical arrangements for a wider audience, but the core essence and traditional recitation remain unchanged, ensuring its preservation as a vital part of global spiritual heritage. Swariti's archiving of this prayer contributes to its continued accessibility and appreciation by future generations, highlighting its timeless message of divine love and surrender.
Historical Background
Composed by Satyavrata Muni, this prayer is part of the ancient Padma Purana, one of the eighteen major Puranas of Hinduism. It describes a pivotal childhood pastime of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan, where He was bound by Mother Yashoda, an event that occurred approximately 5,000 years ago. The prayer's popularity surged with the Gaudiya Vaishnava movement, particularly through the teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and His followers, who emphasized the worship of Radha-Krishna in Vrindavan.
Cultural Significance
Sri Damodarashtakam holds profound cultural and spiritual significance as it encapsulates the essence of devotional love (bhakti). It highlights the unique relationship between the devotee and God, where the all-powerful Lord allows Himself to be bound by pure affection. Its recitation during Kartik month is a cherished tradition, fostering a deep emotional connection to Krishna's intimate pastimes and reinforcing the values of humility, surrender, and unconditional love within the Vaishnava community. It is a cornerstone of Gaudiya Vaishnava identity and practice.
Usage & Performance Context
Primarily recited daily during the month of Kartik (Damodara month) by Gaudiya Vaishnavas. It is sung in temples during morning (mangala arati) and evening programs, and by individuals in their homes as part of their daily devotional practice. It is also sung during various Vaishnava festivals and gatherings.
श्री दामोदराष्टकम् एक प्राचीन और अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण संस्कृत प्रार्थना है, जिसमें आठ श्लोक हैं, जो भगवान कृष्ण के बाल रूप दामोदर की महिमा का गुणगान करते हैं। यह सुंदर स्तोत्र पद्म पुराण के उत्तरखंड में पाया जाता है और इसका श्रेय ऋषि सत्यव्रत मुनि को दिया जाता है। इसकी ऐतिहासिक जड़ें हजारों साल पुरानी हैं, जो इसे हिंदू परंपरा, विशेषकर गौड़ीय वैष्णव धर्म के अनुयायियों के लिए भक्ति साहित्य का एक कालातीत अंश बनाती हैं। यह प्रार्थना प्रसिद्ध लीला का वर्णन करती है जहाँ युवा कृष्ण, मक्खन चुराने के बाद, अपनी प्यारी माँ यशोदा द्वारा रस्सी से अपने पेट (दाम का अर्थ रस्सी, उदर का अर्थ पेट, इसलिए दामोदर) से बाँध दिए जाते हैं। यह लीला खूबसूरती से इस अवधारणा को दर्शाती है कि परमेश्वर, जो अन्यथा असीमित और अजेय हैं, केवल अपने भक्तों के शुद्ध प्रेम से बंधे हो सकते हैं। दामोदराष्टकम् का सांस्कृतिक महत्व, विशेष रूप से गौड़ीय वैष्णव परंपरा के भीतर, बहुत अधिक है। यह कार्तिक (अक्टूबर-नवंबर) के महीने में सबसे प्रमुख रूप से पाठ किया जाता है, जिसे भक्ति प्रथाओं के लिए सबसे पवित्र महीना माना जाता है। कार्तिक के दौरान, भक्त विभिन्न व्रत और अनुष्ठान करते हैं, और दामोदराष्टकम् का दैनिक पाठ, अक्सर भगवान दामोदर को घी का दीपक अर्पित करने के साथ, एक केंद्रीय अभ्यास है। ऐसा माना जाता है कि यह अनुष्ठान अपार आध्यात्मिक लाभ प्रदान करता है और किसी की भक्ति को गहरा करता है। यह प्रार्थना वात्सल्य रस को जगाती है, यानी माता-पिता के स्नेह के भाव को, जिससे भक्तों को कृष्ण के अंतरंग और मनमोहक बाल रूप से जुड़ने का अवसर मिलता है। इसे दुनिया भर के मंदिरों, आश्रमों और घरों में गाया जाता है, जिससे दिव्य के लिए गहरी आत्मीयता और प्रेम की भावना विकसित होती है। प्रदर्शन के संदर्भ में, दामोदराष्टकम् को आमतौर पर भजन या कीर्तन के रूप में गाया जाता है। यद्यपि इसे व्यक्तिगत रूप से पढ़ा जा सकता है, इसे अक्सर सामूहिक रूप से गाया जाता है, विशेष रूप से वैष्णव मंदिरों में सुबह (मंगल आरती) और शाम के कार्यक्रमों के दौरान। धुन आमतौर पर सरल और ध्यानपूर्ण होती है, जिससे भक्तों को श्लोकों के गहन अर्थ पर ध्यान केंद्रित करने की अनुमति मिलती है। इसके पाठ के साथ बजने वाले सामान्य वाद्ययंत्रों में हारमोनियम, मृदंग (एक दो सिर वाला ढोल) और करताल (हाथ की झांझ) शामिल हैं, जो भक्ति के लिए अनुकूल एक लयबद्ध और उत्साहवर्धक वातावरण बनाते हैं। गायन शैली आम तौर पर मधुर और हार्दिक होती है, जो सभी उपस्थित लोगों की भागीदारी को प्रोत्साहित करती है। आज, श्री दामोदराष्टकम् लाखों वैष्णवों के लिए भक्ति अभ्यास का एक आधार बना हुआ है। इसकी स्थायी अपील कृष्ण की वृंदावन की अंतरंग लीलाओं में भक्त को ले जाने की क्षमता में निहित है, जिससे भगवान के साथ एक व्यक्तिगत और प्रेमपूर्ण संबंध विकसित होता है। यह एक शक्तिशाली अनुस्मारक के रूप में कार्य करता है कि सच्ची आध्यात्मिक उन्नति भौतिक ऐश्वर्य या यहां तक कि मुक्ति से नहीं, बल्कि परमेश्वर के लिए शुद्ध, अनन्य प्रेम से आती है। आधुनिक अनुकूलन में व्यापक दर्शकों के लिए संगीत व्यवस्था शामिल होती है, लेकिन मूल सार और पारंपरिक पाठ अपरिवर्तित रहते हैं, जिससे इसकी वैश्विक आध्यात्मिक विरासत के एक महत्वपूर्ण हिस्से के रूप में इसका संरक्षण सुनिश्चित होता है। स्वरिति द्वारा इस प्रार्थना का संग्रह भविष्य की पीढ़ियों द्वारा इसकी निरंतर पहुंच और सराहना में योगदान देता है, जो दिव्य प्रेम और समर्पण के इसके कालातीत संदेश को उजागर करता है।
What is Sri Damodarashtakam?
Sri Damodarashtakam is an ancient Sanskrit prayer consisting of eight verses (ashtakam) that glorifies Lord Krishna in His childhood form as Damodara, recounting the pastime where His mother Yashoda bound Him with a rope around His belly.
Who composed Damodarashtakam and where is it found?
The Damodarashtakam is attributed to the sage Satyavrata Muni and is found in the Uttarakhanda section of the Padma Purana, one of the eighteen major Puranas in Hinduism.
Why is Damodarashtakam particularly important during Kartik month?
During the sacred month of Kartik (Damodara month), devotees traditionally recite Damodarashtakam daily while offering a ghee lamp to Lord Damodara. This practice is believed to deepen one's devotion and connect with Krishna's intimate childhood pastimes.
What is the meaning of 'Damodara'?
'Damodara' is a name for Lord Krishna, derived from two Sanskrit words: 'dama' meaning rope, and 'udara' meaning belly. It refers to the pastime where Mother Yashoda bound Krishna around His belly with a rope.
What is the central message of Damodarashtakam?
The central message is that the Supreme Lord, who is otherwise unconquerable, can be bound by the pure love and affection of His devotees. It emphasizes the power of selfless devotion (bhakti) over all other spiritual achievements.
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Sanskrit (Devanagari)
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