Among the many Ganesha shlokas, the Vakratunda Mahakaya stands out for its vivid description of Lord Ganesha’s appearance while also conveying the profound significance of his worship.
Every auspicious beginning in Hindu tradition begins with a prayer calling upon Ganesh, the remover of obstacles. In this context, the Vakratunda Mahakaya, along with Suklam Baradharam, are the most beloved.
This Shloka primarily describes Lord Ganesha’s appearance and simultaneously invokes him to remove obstacles in all actions.
The words of this Shloka carry a deep symbolism related to Ganesha. The curved trunk represents flexibility, the mighty body for consciousness, strength, and stability. The radiant form symbolises wisdom and the spiritual path of light.
Chanting the Vakratunda Mahakaya Shloka is known to bring success, wisdom, and help clear difficulties from one’s path.
Let’s take a closer look at the shloka
Vakratunda Mahakaya Shloka in Sanskrit, IAST English with Meaning
वक्रतुण्ड महाकाय सूर्यकोटि समप्रभ
निर्विघ्नं कुरु मे देव सर्वकार्येषु सर्वदा ॥
Vakratunda Mahākāya Sūryakoṭi Samaprabha
Nirvighnaṃ Kuru Me Deva Sarvakāryeṣu Sarvadā॥
Meaning: O Lord Ganesha, the one with a curved trunk, whose body is huge, the one who shines with the brilliance that’s equal to millions of suns. May that Lord always remove the obstacles for me in all my actions (ensuring success).
Japa Sankhya, Best Timings to Chant the Shloka, and Benefits
For daily prayer or for worshipping lord Ganesha in rituals, chant the shloka 16 or 21 times.
One can chant this sloka before starting a new work or taking any new action, or can chant it daily for 108 times to meditate on Lord Ganesha.
The auspicious times for chanting are early mornings during Brahma muhurta, before beginning any new task, and on special days to worship Lord Ganesha.
Chanting the Vakratunda Mahakaya helps invoke Lord Ganesha, who can nullify obstacles and bestow wisdom.
Regular recitation purifies the practitioner’s mind and brings him closer to Ganesha.
If recited before studying or starting a new task, this sacred shloka will aid you towards success, besides providing positive energy.
