Totakashtakam — Benefits & How to Chant
तोटकाष्टकम्
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Totakashtakam
Recitation of the Totakashtakam is held to bring the grace, blessings and protection of the deity.
Cultivates devotion, calms the mind and steadies the heart in the Lord’s remembrance.
Most auspicious on Mondays, and during Maha Shivaratri and Shravan.
A treasured Sanskrit hymn, suitable for daily recitation with faith.
How to Chant Totakashtakam
Instructions
Bathe and sit facing east or north before an image of the deity. Light a lamp and recite the Totakashtakam slowly and with devotion. It may be chanted daily, or especially on Mondays and during Maha Shivaratri and Shravan.
Spiritual Significance
It is said that to recite the Totakashtakam with a sincere and devoted heart is to draw near to the grace of the divine, which never forsakes those who lovingly call upon it.
Origin & History
Source: Totakacharya, disciple of Adi Shankaracharya
Author: Totakacharya
The Totakashtakam is traditionally ascribed to Totakacharya. Eight verses sung by Totakacharya in praise of his guru Adi Shankaracharya — "O ocean of the nectar of all scriptures, dispeller of the world’s suffering, teacher of teachers, be my refuge." A model of the disciple’s devotion to the guru.