Lord Shiva
Shiv Chalisa
The Shiv Chalisa is a devotional hymn of forty verses in praise of Lord Shiva. Families recite it on Mondays, through the month of Shravan and on Mahashivratri.
- Type
- Devotional hymn of forty verses
- Language
- Hindi
- Traditional times
- Mondays, Shravan and Mahashivratri
- Time to recite
- About 10 minutes
About the Shiv Chalisa
It is a short hymn that is easy to recite at home before a Shivling or a picture of Lord Shiva. For a larger ritual, such as Rudrabhishek or Laghu Rudra, pandits chant the Rudri, which is a different text from the Chalisa.
Meaning
The hymn praises Lord Shiva in his many forms: the lord of Kailash, the one who wears the crescent moon, and the one who protects those who surrender to him. It asks for his blessings and protection.
Full text
Read the full text (97 lines)
Source: Source edition to be confirmed
When to recite
- Mondays, which are traditionally dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- The month of Shravan, Pradosh days and Mahashivratri.
How to recite at home
- Sit before a Shivling or a picture of Lord Shiva with a lit diya.
- Many families offer water, milk, bel leaves and white flowers, as per their custom.
- Recite calmly and close with an aarti.
Customs differ by region and family. Follow what your own family or guru teaches.
Traditional belief
- Traditionally recited to seek Lord Shiva's blessings and peace of mind.
- A simple practice for Mondays and the holy month of Shravan.
A Laghu Rudra at your home
A team of verified pandits chants the Rudri with abhishek of Lord Shiva and a havan.
Frequently asked questions
When is it recited?
On Mondays, through Shravan, on Pradosh and on Mahashivratri.
What is the difference between the Shiv Chalisa and the Rudri?
The Chalisa is a hymn of forty verses for daily devotion. The Rudri is a Vedic hymn recited by pandits in rituals like Rudrabhishek and Laghu Rudra.
Do I need a pandit?
Not for the Chalisa. For a Rudrabhishek or Laghu Rudra Yagna, a pandit or team of pandits conducts the ritual.