🔸 Overview
The Chandrasekhara Ashtakam is a revered 8-verse hymn composed by Rishi Mārkandeya in praise of Lord Śiva as Chandrasekhara—the One who wears the crescent moon on His crown. According to legend, Markandeya recited this hymn at the brink of death, and Shiva appeared to bless him with immortality, granting timeless protection and grace.
📜 Sanskrit Verses (IAST)
markdownCopyEditचन्द्रशेखर चन्द्रशेखर चन्द्रशेखर पाहिमाम् ।
चन्द्रशेखर चन्द्रशेखर चन्द्रशेखर रक्षमाम् ॥
1. रत्नसानुशरासनं रजताद्रि श्रृङ्गनिकेतनं ...
... चन्द्रशेखरमाश्रये मम किं करिष्यति वै यमः॥
... [verses 2–8] ...
8. विश्वसृष्टिविद्यायिनं पुनरेव पालनतत्परम् ...
... चन्द्रशेखरमाश्रये मम किं करिष्यति वै यमः॥
(Complete Sanskrit text available in PDF)
📖 English Translation (Verse 1 Example)
“I take refuge in Chandrasekhara—who made Mount Meru His bow, Vasuki His bowstring, Lord Vishnu His arrow, destroyed the three cities instantly, and is revered by all the worlds—what can Death do to me?”
(Full translations for all verses are available in the downloadable PDF)
✨ Key Themes & Imagery
- Moon-crown (Chandra): Symbolizes control over time and the mind .
- Destruction of Tripuras: Shiva’s role as destroyer of ego and evil
- Protector from Death: Reciting the hymn invokes divine protection and fearlessness
- Sage Markandeya’s Legacy: The hymn immortalizes a divine boon against death itself
🙏 Benefits of Chanting
- Fearlessness of death – as experienced by Markandeya
- Spiritual protection & wellbeing – safeguards devotees against grief and illness
- Spiritual growth & devotion – fosters inner peace and divine focus
- Mental clarity & longevity – balances emotions, supports longevity
🕯️ How & When to Chant
| Occasion | Notes |
|---|---|
| Mondays (Somavara) | Ideal time for Shiva devotion |
| Pradosha Kala | Fortified spiritual effect |
| Maha Shiva Ratri | Most auspicious time |
| General Practice | Sit in a clean space, light lamp/incense before Shiva image or Linga; chant with devotion |
Reciting the refrain (“Chandrasekhara… pāhimām” / “rakṣamām”) itself is considered a potent mantra
📥 PDF Download
Get the complete Sanskrit verses, English translation, and phonetic IAST in a convenient PDF: chandrashekhara ashtakam, chandrasekhara chant, lord shiva stotras,
🙏 Acknowledgements & Credit
We sincerely thank Nanduri Srinivas Garu for sharing the PDF and contributing to the service of Sanatana Dharma. Your support is deeply appreciated.
Credit: Nanduri Srinivas Garu
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💡 Summary
The Chandrasekhara Ashtakam is a divine hymn offering deep spiritual protection, divine grace, and fearless living. Rooted in ancient lore and composed by a sage who transcended death, its verses continue to bless devotees with strength, peace, and unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva.