Krishnaya Vasudevaya Haraye Paramatmane | Most Powerful Mantra
Srimad Bhagavatam 10.73.16
Krishnaya vasudevaya
haraye paramatmane
pranata-klesha-nashaya
govindaya namo namah
कृष्णाय वासुदेवाय हरये परमात्मने ।
प्रणतक्लेशनाशाय गोविन्दाय नमो नमः ॥
Translation
“Again and again we offer our obeisances unto Lord Krishna, Hari, the son of Vasudeva. That Supreme Soul, Govinda, vanquishes the suffering of all who surrender to Him.”
This beautiful prayer appears in the Srimad Bhagavatam, one of the most authoritative scriptures of the Vedic tradition. It is a direct glorification of Lord Sri Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Understanding the Meaning of the Mantra
Each name in this verse reveals a specific aspect of the Lord:
- Krishna – The all-attractive Supreme Lord.
- Vasudeva – The son of Vasudeva, who appeared in Mathura for the protection of dharma.
- Hari – He who removes all distress and ignorance.
- Paramatma – The Supersoul residing in the heart of every living being.
- Pranata-klesha-nashaya – The destroyer of the miseries of those who surrender unto Him.
- Govinda – The giver of pleasure to the cows, the land, and the senses; the protector and nourisher of all beings.
This verse is not merely poetic praise. It establishes a theological truth central to the teachings of International Society for Krishna Consciousness — that Sri Krishna is both the Supreme Lord and the intimate well-wisher of every soul.
The Purpose of Chanting This Mantra
The purpose of chanting this mantra is surrender.
When a devotee says “namo namah” — again and again I bow down — it expresses humility and dependence. It is not a mechanical repetition but a heartfelt acknowledgment:
“I cannot overcome my suffering alone. O Govinda, please protect me.”
This mantra reminds us that:
- Real relief from distress does not come from temporary arrangements.
- The root of suffering is forgetfulness of our eternal relationship with Krishna.
- By surrendering to Him, the burden of karmic reactions and mental anxieties gradually dissolves.
It deepens faith in Kṛishna as Paramatma — the Lord present within the heart, guiding and witnessing our journey.
The Spiritual Effect of Chanting
When chanted with sincerity and attention, this mantra brings powerful inner transformation:
1. Relief from Inner Distress
“Pranata-klesha-nashaya” assures us that Krishna personally removes the suffering of those who take shelter of Him. The distress may not always vanish instantly, but the heart becomes steady and peaceful.
2. Strength in Surrender
Regular chanting softens pride and cultivates humility. One begins to naturally depend on Krishna’s will rather than personal ego.
3. Awakening of Devotion
By addressing Krishna as Govinda and Hari, affection for the Lord awakens. The mantra shifts consciousness from material anxiety to divine remembrance.
4. Purification of the Heart
The names of the Lord are non-different from Him. Therefore, chanting invokes His presence. Gradually, unwanted habits and negative tendencies lose their grip.
Practical Application for Devotees
At Hare Krishna Mandir Ahmedabad (ISKCON Bhadaj), devotees often chant such prayers before kirtana, japa, or scriptural study. It prepares the heart for deeper absorption.
You may chant this mantra:
- In the morning before starting your day
- During times of difficulty or confusion
- After completing your daily japa
- As part of family prayer at home
Chant slowly, with attention, reflecting on each name.
Conclusion
Srimad Bhagavatam 10.73.16 is a prayer of surrender and hope. It affirms that Lord Krishna is not distant or indifferent. He is Govinda — the caring protector who removes the suffering of those who bow before Him with sincerity.
In a world filled with uncertainty, this mantra offers spiritual shelter. By repeatedly offering obeisances — namo namah — the soul gradually finds peace, protection, and divine connection.
