Vakratunda Mahakaya Mantra — Meaning and How to Chant
This is the best-loved prayer to Lord Ganesh. It is recited at the start of any puja, study, journey or new work. In it, the devotee asks Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, to keep every task free of hurdles. It is short and simple, so even children learn it easily.
Vakratunda mahakaya suryakoti samaprabha | nirvighnam kuru me deva sarva-karyeshu sarvada ||
Meaning
Mantra
Vakratunda mahakaya suryakoti samaprabha | nirvighnam kuru me deva sarva-karyeshu sarvada ||
O Lord with the curved trunk and mighty body, shining like millions of suns! Please keep all my work free of obstacles, always.
Meanings written in simple language by the KathaMantra team.
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Frequently asked questions
How many times should I chant Vakratunda Mahakaya?
Once or three times before starting any work is enough. As japa, devotees chant it 11, 21 or 108 times (one mala).
When should this mantra be recited?
At the start of puja, before studying, or when beginning a journey or new work. Wednesdays and Ganesh Chaturthi are considered especially good.
What does 'Vakratunda' mean?
'Vakra' means curved and 'tunda' means trunk — Ganesh with the curved trunk. 'Mahakaya' means the one with a mighty body.