Sri Hari Stotram (Jagajjalapalam)

This Sri Hari Stotram, composed by Paramahamsa Swami Brahmananda, is a deeply devotional hymn depicting the various divine attributes, forms, and cosmic functions of Lord Hari. It is a hymn of surrender, reverence, and divine contemplation, guiding the seeker toward peace, purity, and liberation.

The first verse praises the Lord as the protector of the universe, adorned with resplendent garlands, with a face shining like the autumn moon, the destroyer of demons, dark like the vast sky, and eternally united with Goddess Lakshmi.

The second verse describes Him as the resident of the cosmic ocean, whose smile radiates beauty like blossoming flowers, who illumines the worlds with the brightness of hundreds of suns. He bears the mace and discus and wears the yellow divine garment, with a charming and blissful countenance.

The third verse reveals Him as the beloved of Lakshmi, essence of the Vedas, who plays in the waters as various forms of Vishnu, remover of earth’s burdens, embodiment of consciousness and bliss, and Lord of countless divine manifestations.

The fourth verse praises Him as beyond old age and birth, ever-fresh, ever-divine, absorbed in the highest samadhi, the cause of creation, the banner of the gods, and the firm bridge supporting the universe.

In the fifth verse, He is praised as the essence of Vedic chants, rider of Garuda, source of liberation, destroyer of the enemies of Dharma, supporter of His devotees, root of the cosmic tree, and remover of all suffering.

The sixth verse describes Him as the Lord of all gods, the beautiful center of the universe, dwelling in the heart-space, ever-radiant, bestower of liberation, and master of Vaikuntha.

The seventh verse praises Him as the strongest among the gods, supreme in all three worlds, greatest among teachers, the only true essence, the fearless warrior, and the one who helps devotees cross the ocean of worldly existence.

The eighth verse depicts Him with Lakshmi on His left side, resting on the serpent Adisesha, the lord of sacrifices, free from attachment, adored by sages and gods, and beyond all qualities.

The phalashruti states that whoever recites this Hari Ashtakam daily with concentration and devotion attains the sorrowless world of Vishnu and becomes free from the misery of birth, old age, and grief.

Benefits:

• Removes suffering, obstacles, and inner fears
• Grants peace, divine protection, and spiritual upliftment
• Helps overcome the cycle of birth and sorrow
• Enhances devotion, purity, and mental strength
• Leads toward Vishnuloka and liberation