Aalasyam Hi Manushyanam Sharirastho Mahan Ripuh
आलस्यं हि मनुष्याणां शरीरस्थो महान् रिपुः
Also known as: aalasyam hi manushyanam · alasyam hi manushyanam sharirastho mahan ripuh · nasti udyama samo bandhuh · chanakya shloka on laziness
Read in your language / script
✦ Meaning
This famous niti verse, associated with the Chanakya tradition, identifies laziness as the most dangerous enemy of all — one that lives within our own body. In contrast, it declares that there is no friend as faithful as udyama, diligent effort, because the person who keeps working never sinks into failure. It is a stirring, practical reminder that our greatest obstacle and our greatest ally are both within us.
Origin & Story
Chanakya Niti (Subhashita) · Attributed to Chanakya (Kautilya) · Classical Sanskrit literature (Mauryan era tradition, c. 4th century BCE onward)
Chanakya, the legendary statesman and author of the Arthashastra, is credited in the Chanakya Niti tradition with many pithy verses on practical wisdom, governance and self-discipline. This verse captures one of his recurring themes — that diligence is the foundation of success. By naming laziness an enemy lodged within the body, it urges constant effort as the surest protection against ruin.
✦ As told in scripture
Teachers across generations have used this verse to rouse students from idleness, and it is often said that a single sincere reading can shame the inner sluggard into action, for once effort is seen as one's truest friend, laziness loses much of its hold.
The Mantra
Tap any line — or the ▶ button — to hear it recited
आलस्यं हि मनुष्याणां शरीरस्थो महान् रिपुः। नास्त्युद्यमसमो बन्धुः कृत्वा यं नावसीदति॥
ālasyaṁ hi manuṣyāṇāṁ śarīrastho mahān ripuḥ। nāsty udyama-samo bandhuḥ kṛtvā yaṁ nāvasīdati॥
Meaning:Laziness is verily the great enemy that dwells within the human body; there is no friend like diligent effort, for having practised it one never falls into ruin. This Chanakya-niti verse names sloth as the foe lurking inside us and hails sustained effort as the truest ally on the path to success.
Word-by-Word Meaning
Click any word to hear its pronunciation
Benefits of Chanting Aalasyam Hi Manushyanam Sharirastho Mahan Ripuh
Inspires diligence and a strong work ethic in study and life
Warns against laziness as the inner enemy that causes downfall
Encourages perseverance and consistent effort toward goals
A motivating verse for students, workers and seekers of success
Reframes effort as one's most loyal friend and protector
Excellent for value education and daily self-motivation
How to Chant Aalasyam Hi Manushyanam Sharirastho Mahan Ripuh
Recite the verse to begin the day with resolve, recognising laziness as the enemy within and effort as your truest friend. Let it spur you to action whenever you feel like delaying or giving up. It is best used as a motivational reflection rather than a ritual chant, ideal for students and anyone pursuing a goal.