Manikantha Ashtakam In English
Manikantha Ashtakam is a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, who is also known as Manikantha. The name “Manikantha” comes from two Sanskrit words: “Mani” (meaning jewel) and “Kantha” (meaning neck), referring to the divine gem on his neck. This Ashtakam (a hymn consisting of eight verses) is chanted by devotees to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa, especially during the Sabarimala pilgrimage.
Manikantha Ashtakam In English
Harikalabhaturangatungavaahanam Harimanimohanahaarachaarudeham.
Haridadheepanatam Gireendrageham Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayaami.
Nirupama Paramaatmanityabodham Guruvaramadbhutamaadibhootanaatham.
Suruchirataradivyanri’ttageetam Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayaami.
Aganitaphaladaanalolasheelam Naganilayam Nigamaagamaadimoolam.
Akhilabhuvanapaalakam Vishaalam Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayaami.
Ghanarasakalabhaabhiramyagaatram Kanakakarojvala Kamaneeyavetram.
Anaghasanakataapasaikamitram Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayaami.
Sukri’tasumanasaam Sataam Sharanyam Sakri’dupasevakasaadhulokavarnyam.
Sakalabhuvanapaalakam Varenyam Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayaami.
Vijayakara Vibhootivetrahastam Vijayakaram Vividhaayudha Prashastam.
Vijita Manasijam Charaacharastham Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayeham.
Sakalavishayamahaarujaapahaaram Jagadudayasthitinaashahetubhootam.
Aganagamri’gayaamahaavinodam Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayeham.
Tribhuvanasharanam Dayaapayodhim Prabhumamaraabharanam Ripupramaathim.
Abhayavarakarojjvalatsamaadhim Hariharaputramudaaramaashrayeham.
Jayajaya Manikant’ha Vetradand’a Jaya Karunaakara Poornachandratund’a.
Jayajaya Jagadeesha Shaasitaand’a Jayaripukhand’a Vakhand’a Chaarukhand’a.
Significance of Manikantha Ashtakam
- Glorification of Lord Ayyappa
- The hymn praises Lord Ayyappa as the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini (the female form of Lord Vishnu).
- It describes his divine attributes, heroic deeds, and his role as a protector of devotees.
- Spiritual and Religious Importance
- Reciting Manikantha Ashtakam is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and liberation from sins.
- It is commonly chanted by devotees observing Ayyappa Vratham (a period of spiritual discipline before visiting Sabarimala).
- Protection and Blessings
- Lord Ayyappa is considered a deity of Dharma (righteousness) and spiritual awakening.
- The Ashtakam requests Lord Ayyappa’s guidance and protection from evil forces.
Benefits of Reciting Manikantha Ashtakam
- Removes Obstacles – Helps devotees overcome difficulties in life.
- Promotes Spiritual Growth – Increases devotion and faith in Lord Ayyappa.
- Brings Prosperity – Ensures wealth, health, and happiness.
- Purifies the Mind – Frees the soul from negative thoughts and influences.
- Grants Protection – Shields devotees from evil forces and dangers.
