Hayagriva Stotram (Hayagriva Sampada Stotram) — Word-by-Word Meaning
हयग्रीव स्तोत्रम् (हयग्रीव सम्पदा स्तोत्रम्)
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Complete Translation
A hymn to Lord Hayagriva, the horse-headed form of Vishnu who is the bestower of knowledge and wisdom — "We worship Hayagriva, embodiment of knowledge and bliss, pure as flawless crystal, the foundation of all learning." Composed by the Madhwa saint Sri Vadiraja Tirtha, its three sacred verses are said to grant wealth of speech, wisdom and spiritual abundance to those who recite them.
Origin & History
Source: Composed by Sri Vadiraja Tirtha
Author: Sri Vadiraja Tirtha
Period: 16th century
The Hayagriva Sampada Stotram was composed by Sri Vadiraja Tirtha, the great Madhwa saint of Karnataka. By tradition Lord Hayagriva — the horse-headed form of Vishnu and lord of all knowledge — would appear daily to receive Vadiraja's offering of cooked chana (hayagriva prasada). The hymn praises Hayagriva as the source of all learning, and its closing verse promises wealth of speech and wisdom to all who recite its three sacred shlokas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Hayagriva and why is the stotra recited?▼
Hayagriva is the horse-headed incarnation of Lord Vishnu, worshipped as the deity of knowledge, learning and the Vedas. The stotra is recited for wisdom, memory, eloquence and success in study — it is especially loved by students and scholars.
Who composed the Hayagriva Stotram?▼
This well-known short stotra (the Hayagriva Sampada Stotram, beginning 'Jnanananda mayam devam') was composed by Sri Vadiraja Tirtha, a revered saint of the Madhwa (Dvaita Vaishnava) tradition of Karnataka. Its final verse calls these three shlokas 'the abode of all prosperity' for those who recite them.
When is the best time to chant it?▼
Early morning before study is ideal, and Thursdays are especially auspicious for Vishnu and for learning. Many recite it during Navaratri (Saraswati worship) and before examinations.
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