Sri Ranganatha Ashtakam 2

This second version of the Sri Ranganatha Ashtakam is a devotional hymn praising Lord Ranganatha as the supreme ruler of all worlds. Each verse concludes with “I bow down again and again,” reflecting complete surrender and deep reverence.

The hymn begins by glorifying the Lord as the king above all kings—greater than Brahma, Garuda, Indra, and the rulers of the three worlds. It then celebrates His many divine reclining forms: resting on the serpent Adisesha, on the waters, on the banyan leaf, on Ananta, and as the cosmic child—all symbolizing His protection of the universe.

The hymn further praises Him as the abode of Lakshmi, the residence of the cosmos, the indweller of the lotus-heart, radiant like the sun, and the Lord worshipped on Seshadri and in all worlds. His form is described as blue-hued, powerful-armed, lotus-eyed, and accompanied by Goddess Lakshmi—delighting devotees with His enchanting beauty.

All deities—Brahma, Indra, Mukunda, Vyasa, and sages like Sanaka—worship Him as the supreme Lord. He is infinite, the embodiment of real knowledge, the essence of devotion, the form of the Vedas, and the radiant Lord accompanied by Lakshmi.

The devotee acknowledges his shortcomings: mistakes in action, spiritual negligence, and worldly weakness. In all these, the Lord alone is the refuge and protector of the helpless. The hymn praises His Yoga Nidra—His sacred cosmic rest that sustains all creation—calling it the one auspicious sleep of the universe.

The phalaśruti declares that reciting this ashtakam in the morning destroys the sins of countless births instantly.

Benefits:
    •    Cultivates deep devotion and surrender
    •    Removes sins, fears, and karmic burdens
    •    Invokes the grace and protection of Lord Ranganatha
    •    Enhances mental peace, clarity, and spiritual strength
    •    Supports long-term spiritual evolution