Lalita Sahasranama
లలితా సహస్రనామం
1,000 names of Goddess Lalita Tripura Sundari in 182 shlokas + phalashruti · Composed by Vagdevatas (Eight Sages of Speech), revealed in the assembly of Lalita Devi · Brahmanda Purana, Lalitopakhyana, Chapters 36–43
Sanskrit (Devanagari)
ॐ श्रीमाता श्रीमहाराज्ञी श्रीमत्सिंहासनेश्वरी । चिदग्निकुण्डसम्भूता देवकार्यसमुद्यता ॥
Transliteration (IAST)
Oṃ Śrīmātā Śrīmahārājñī Śrīmat-Siṃhāsaneśvarī / Chid-Agni-Kuṇḍa-Sambhūtā Deva-Kārya-Samudyatā... [continues through 1000 names]
English Translation
Salutations to the Auspicious Mother, the Great Empress, the Mistress of the Sacred Throne, born of the Pit of Consciousness-Fire, ever ready for the work of the Gods. [Names 1–5 of 1,008]
About the Lalita Sahasranama
The Lalita Sahasranama is the supreme thousand-name hymn to Goddess Lalita Tripura Sundari, considered the most beautiful and complete Devi stotra in Hindu tradition. Composed by the eight Vagdevatas (Sages of Speech) at the command of Lalita herself, it is part of the Brahmanda Purana's Lalitopakhyana. Sri Vidya practitioners — followers of the most refined tantric tradition — recite it daily as svadhyaya, with each name being a meditation. The text proceeds in a precise order: starting with the Goddess's form (Names 1–84), her divine play (85–274), the goddesses of her retinue, the chakras of the Sri Yantra, and finally the absolute non-dual reality (995–1000). The phalashruti declares that recitation grants every legitimate desire — children, prosperity, removal of disease, victory over enemies, longevity, and liberation. Recite at a clean altar with the Sri Yantra (or her image) before you; offer red flowers (especially hibiscus or rose); light a ghee lamp.
Recitation Guide
Benefits
Removes obstacles to spiritual progress; bestows beauty (saubhagya), prosperity (sampada), and grace; protects from negative energies; fulfills righteous desires; granted moksha to those who recite with devotion. Especially powerful for women seeking marriage, fertility, or relief from marital difficulties.
Pronunciation Notes
Each name should be preceded by "Oṃ" and followed by "Namaḥ" in archana (formal worship). For svadhyaya (study), simply recite the names in their natural shloka rhythm.
How to Practice
- Preparation: Take a bath or wash face/hands/feet. Wear clean clothes (saffron, white, or yellow preferred).
- Seat: Sit on a wool blanket or grass mat (asana). Face east or north. Keep spine straight.
- Mala: Use a 108-bead mala (rudraksha for Shiva mantras, tulsi for Vishnu mantras, sphatika/quartz for universal).
- Sankalpa: Take a vow stating today's date, your name, and the purpose of the practice.
- Recite: 1 full recitation (~45 min) daily. Maintain steady rhythm — neither rushed nor too slow.
- End: Bow with folded hands. Dedicate the merit to all beings ("Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah").
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lalita Sahasranama?
The Lalita Sahasranama is the supreme thousand-name hymn to Goddess Lalita Tripura Sundari, considered the most beautiful and complete Devi stotra in Hindu tradition. Composed by the eight Vagdevatas (Sages of Speech) at the command of Lalita herself, it is part of the Brahmanda Purana's Lalitopakhy...
How many times should I recite Lalita Sahasranama daily?
1 full recitation (~45 min) daily; 11 on Fridays; 108 over Navaratri
When is the best time to recite Lalita Sahasranama?
Friday evening; Full Moon (Purnima); Navaratri; Lalita Panchami; Lalita Jayanti
Who composed the Lalita Sahasranama?
Vagdevatas (Eight Sages of Speech), revealed in the assembly of Lalita Devi, from Brahmanda Purana, Lalitopakhyana, Chapters 36–43.
What are the benefits of reciting Lalita Sahasranama?
Removes obstacles to spiritual progress; bestows beauty (saubhagya), prosperity (sampada), and grace; protects from negative energies; fulfills righteous desires; granted moksha to those who recite with devotion. Especially powerful for women seeking marriage, fertility, or relief from marital difficulties.
Other Vedic Mantras
Sanskrit text and translation cross-verified with classical sources. Editorial methodology reviewed by Pandit Ramachandra Sharma. For initiation (deeksha) into specific mantras, please consult a qualified Sanskrit-speaking guru in person.