Hara Hara Mahadev — Word-by-Word Meaning
हर हर महादेव
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
हर
Hara
Shiva — 'the one who takes away', who removes sin, sorrow and the bondage of death
हर हर
Hara Hara
Repeated invocation — 'O Remover, O Remover', a heartfelt double call to Shiva
महादेव
Mahadev
The Great God (Maha + Deva) — Shiva, supreme among the gods
Complete Translation
Hara Hara Mahadev — 'Hail Shiva, the Great God, the remover of all!' It is the universal victory-cry (jaikara) of Shiva's devotees, raising his name as both prayer and rallying call.
Origin & History
Source: Traditional jaikara (victory-cry) of Shiva devotees
Author: Ancient tradition
Period: Ancient
'Hara Hara Mahadev' is the oldest and most universal acclamation of Shiva. At Kashi — Shiva's own city — it has echoed along the ghats for centuries, and it is the cry of the Kanwariyas who walk hundreds of miles bearing Ganga water for the Lord. Beyond worship, it was raised as a battle-cry of courage by warriors invoking Mahadev's strength, blurring the line between prayer and valour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Hara Hara Mahadev mean?▼
'Hara' is a name of Shiva meaning 'the one who takes away' — who removes sin, suffering and the fear of death. 'Mahadev' means 'the Great God'. Together the cry hails Shiva as the supreme remover of all afflictions.
Why is it repeated as 'Hara Hara'?▼
Repeating 'Hara' is a fervent, loving call — like crying out a beloved name twice. It intensifies the devotee's appeal to Shiva to take away every burden and to be present.
Where is Hara Hara Mahadev chanted?▼
It rings out at Shiva temples — above all at Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi — and is the rallying chant of Kanwar pilgrims and of devotees throughout the holy month of Shravan and on Mahashivratri. It has also long been raised as a cry of courage.
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