एकदन्तं महाकायं — Word-by-Word Meaning
एकदन्तं महाकायं
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
एकदन्तम्
Ekadantam
The single-tusked one (Ekadanta)
महाकायम्
mahakayam
Of great / mighty body
लम्बोदर
lambodara
The large-bellied one (Lambodara)
गजाननम्
gajananam
The elephant-faced one (Gajanana)
विघ्ननाशकरम्
vighnanashakaram
The one who destroys obstacles (vighna-nashaka)
देवम्
devam
The shining Lord / God
हेरम्बम्
herambam
Heramba — a name of Ganesha meaning the protector of the weak / the mighty one dear to his Mother
प्रणमाम्यहम्
pranamamyaham
I bow down (in salutation)
Complete Translation
मैं एकदन्त, महाकाय, लम्बोदर एवं गजमुख प्रभु को प्रणाम करता हूँ; जो समस्त विघ्नों के नाशक देव हैं — उस हेरम्ब (गणेश), दीनों के रक्षक को मैं नमस्कार करता हूँ।
Origin & History
Source: Traditional Sanskrit dhyana/salutation verse to Ganesha
Author: Unknown (traditional)
Period: Traditional
Ekadantam Mahakayam is among the most popular short salutations to Ganesha, recited at the opening of worship alongside 'Vakratunda Mahakaya' and 'Shuklambaradharam'. In two lines it gathers the Lord's best-known epithets — Ekadanta, Mahakaya, Lambodara, Gajanana — and bows to him as the obstacle-destroying Heramba, the protector of all who are weak and seek his shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Ekadantam Mahakayam'?▼
It is a single famous Sanskrit verse of salutation to Lord Ganesha. It addresses him by his well-known names — Ekadanta (single-tusked), Mahakaya (mighty-bodied), Lambodara (large-bellied) and Gajanana (elephant-faced) — and bows to him as Heramba, the obstacle-destroying Lord and protector of the weak.
Who is Heramba?▼
Heramba is a name of Ganesha. It is traditionally understood to mean 'the protector of the weak (and helpless)' and 'the mighty one dear to his Mother'. The five-headed Heramba form, mounted on a lion, is a benevolent, protective aspect of Ganesha.
When should this verse be recited?▼
It is recited in the morning and at the beginning of any worship, study, examination or new venture, as a short prayer to invoke Ganesha and the removal of obstacles for an auspicious, successful start.
Is it suitable for daily chanting and for children?▼
Yes. Being short, rhythmic and built from Ganesha's most familiar names, the verse is ideal for daily recitation and is often among the first Ganesha prayers taught to children.
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