Batuka Bhairava Ashtottara Shatanama Stotram — Benefits & How to Chant
बटुक भैरव अष्टोत्तरशतनाम स्तोत्रम्
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Batuka Bhairava Ashtottara Shatanama Stotram
Invokes Batuka Bhairava as Sarvapat-Tarana
the deliverer from every calamity and danger
The phala-shruti promises freedom from all fear of spirits (bhuta-bhaya), enemies and sins
Traditionally recited for powerful protection, especially against negative energies and black magic
Removes obstacles and is believed to bestow siddhis (the hymn calls him Siddhida)
Calls upon Bhairava as Vaidya, the divine physician
chanted for relief from affliction
A complete meditation on 108 names and forms of the guardian Bhairava, deepening devotion and fearlessness
How to Chant Batuka Bhairava Ashtottara Shatanama Stotram
Instructions
This is a tantric namastotram. Sit facing south (the direction of Bhairava), light a lamp (mustard-oil is traditional) and, where observed, offer to the dog that accompanies Bhairava. Recite the 108 names flowingly from 'Om Bhairavo Bhutanathascha' to the end, then the phala-shruti verses. It may be read once daily; on Bhairava Ashtami and Kalashtami repeated recitation is especially fruitful. Approach the fierce form with reverence and a clean, sattvic mind.
Spiritual Significance
By its own phala-shruti the hymn declares that one who recites these 108 names is touched by no evil and knows no fear of spirits, enemies, or sins. Devotees of Batuka Bhairava recount that sincere recitation, especially the Apaduddharaka (calamity-removing) invocation of Bhairava, has shielded them in moments of grave danger and dissolved unseen afflictions.
Origin & History
Source: Tantric Shaiva tradition (Batuka Bhairava Ashtottara Shatanama Stotram, associated with the Bhairava / Rudrayamala tantric texts)
Author: Traditional (tantric Shaiva tradition)
Batuka Bhairava is venerated as the boy-form of Bhairava, the terrifying yet protective emanation of Shiva. In the Tantric tradition he is a guardian deity (Kshetrapala) invoked for swift protection and the fulfilment of sadhana. This 108-name hymn gathers his many aspects — fierce and gentle, the cremation-ground ascetic and the bestower of wealth and wisdom — into a single flowing praise sealed with a promise of fearlessness for the devotee.