Kalika Ashtakam — Word-by-Word Meaning
कालिका अष्टकम्
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Complete Translation
Eight verses to Goddess Kalika (Kali) by Adi Shankaracharya — beginning with a meditation on Her fierce, dark, liberating form, garlanded with skulls, the Mother who devours time and grants fearlessness.
Origin & History
Source: Ascribed to Adi Shankaracharya
Author: Adi Shankaracharya
Period: Classical
The Kalika Ashtakam is traditionally ascribed to Adi Shankaracharya. Eight verses to Goddess Kalika (Kali) by Adi Shankaracharya — beginning with a meditation on Her fierce, dark, liberating form, garlanded with skulls, the Mother who devours time and grants fearlessness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kalika Ashtakam?▼
Eight verses to Goddess Kalika (Kali) by Adi Shankaracharya — beginning with a meditation on Her fierce, dark, liberating form, garlanded with skulls, the Mother who devours time and grants fearlessness.
Who composed the Kalika Ashtakam, and when is it recited?▼
It is attributed to Adi Shankaracharya (Ascribed to Adi Shankaracharya). It is recited in the morning or evening with devotion, and especially on Fridays and during Navaratri and Fridays.
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