Gopala Gopala Devaki Nandana Gopala — Word-by-Word Meaning
गोपाल गोपाल देवकीनन्दन गोपाल
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
गोपाल
Gopala
Protector of the cows; the cowherd Lord — a beloved name of Krishna
गो
Go
Cows; also the senses and the earth
पाल
Pala
Protector, nurturer, keeper
देवकी
Devaki
Devaki, the divine mother who gave birth to Krishna
नन्दन
Nandana
Beloved son; the delight (of Devaki)
देवकीनन्दन
Devaki-nandana
The dear son of Devaki — Sri Krishna
गोपाल गोपाल
Gopala Gopala
The name 'Gopala' repeated in love — calling upon Krishna again and again as the cowherd Lord
कृष्ण
Krishna
The all-attractive Lord whom these names of Gopala invoke (implied object of the chant)
नन्द
Nanda
Joy, delight; also a reminder of Nanda Maharaj, Krishna's foster-father in Gokul
गोविन्द
Govinda
A related name of Krishna — giver of joy to the cows, the senses and the earth (often sung alongside Gopala)
Complete Translation
O Gopala, Gopala — beloved son of Devaki, O Gopala! (Repeated as a loving chant of the holy names of Krishna, the cowherd Lord and son of mother Devaki.)
Origin & History
Source: Traditional Krishna dhun / nama-kirtan
Author: Unknown (traditional / devotional folk)
Period: Medieval to modern Bhakti tradition
Like the Hare Krishna mahamantra, this dhun belongs to the living tradition of nama-sankirtana — the congregational singing of the holy names. By repeating 'Gopala' and 'Devaki-nandana,' devotees remember both Krishna's intimate role as the cowherd protector of Vrindavan and His appearance in this world as the son of Devaki. It is one of the simplest and most widely loved Krishna chants in temples and homes alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Gopala Devaki Nandana' mean?▼
Gopala means 'protector of cows / the cowherd Lord,' a beloved name of Krishna. Devaki-nandana means 'the dear son of Devaki.' Together the dhun lovingly calls upon Krishna by these two cherished names.
Why is Krishna called Gopala?▼
Krishna grew up among the cowherds of Gokul and Vrindavan, tending cows and protecting all who took shelter in Him. 'Gopala' celebrates Him as the loving guardian — go-pala, the protector of cows, the senses and indeed all creation.
How is this dhun chanted?▼
It is sung as a repetitive chant (dhun) in a simple, sweet melody, often in call-and-response kirtan. There is no fixed number of repetitions; devotees sing it for as long as they wish, allowing the names to absorb the mind in love for Krishna.
When is it especially sung?▼
It is sung at any time as a daily remembrance, in bhajan and satsang gatherings, and especially on Janmashtami, Krishna's birthday, celebrating Him as the son of Devaki.
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