“Ekaveni Japakarnapura Nagna Kharasthita Lamboshthi Karnikakarni Tailabhyakta Sharirini Vamapadollasalloha Latakantakabhushana Vardhanamurdhwaja Krishna Kalaratrirbhayankari” is a powerful mantra dedicated to Goddess Kalaratri, the seventh form of the Goddess Durga, worshipped on the seventh night of Navratri. This mantra is a vivid and intense description of her fierce and formidable form, highlighting her dark complexion, disheveled appearance, and the terror she inspires in the hearts of demons and negativity. She is the destroyer of darkness and ignorance. Despite her fierce appearance, she is a benevolent protector to her devotees.

Mantra Meaning Breakdown

  • Ekaveni: This means “having a single braid.” It describes Kalaratri’s hair as being tied in one, long braid, a symbol of her focused power.
  • Japakarnapura: This word is interpreted differently by scholars. Some interpretations say it means “adorned with Hibiscus flowers (Japa)” in her ears (Karna). Others say “Japa” means chanting and “Karna” is ear and therefore, this refers to those who are chanting prayers in her ear, which shows she is receptive to the prayers of her devotees.
  • Nagna: This translates to “naked” or “unclothed,” indicating her unadorned and primal nature, beyond the constraints of worldly illusions. She is free from illusions and attachments.
  • Kharasthita: This means “seated on a donkey.” The donkey is her chosen mount, symbolizing her ability to carry the burden of negativity and transform it.
  • Lamboshthi: This translates to “having long, drooping lips,” adding to her fierce and formidable appearance.
  • Karnikakarni: This means “having large, prominent ears,” suggesting her attentiveness to the prayers of her devotees and her awareness of all that transpires in the universe.
  • Tailabhyakta Sharirini: This means “whose body is anointed with oil.” The oil is believed to signify her luminosity and power, as well as protection.
  • Vamapadollasalloha Latakantakabhushana: This is a complex phrase. “Vama Pada” means “left foot.” “Ullasat” means “shining” or “dangling”. “Loha” means “iron.” “Lata” means “creeper.” “Kantaka” means “thorn.” “Bhushana” means “ornament.” This describes her left foot adorned with a dangling iron anklet resembling a thorny creeper, symbolizing her power to destroy negativity and overcome obstacles.
  • Vardhanamurdhwaja: This can be interpreted as “bearing a banner of a donkey’s head” or “one whose banner is raised high.” It signifies her victorious nature and her supremacy over negative forces.
  • Krishna: This means “dark” or “black,” referring to her dark complexion, symbolizing the formless void from which all creation arises and into which it dissolves.
  • Kalaratrirbhayankari: This translates to “Kalaratri, the terrifying one.” It acknowledges her fierce aspect, which is meant to destroy evil and protect the righteous. She is the great dark night of time and death.

Full Meaning

The mantra “Ekaveni Japakarnapura Nagna Kharasthita Lamboshthi Karnikakarni Tailabhyakta Sharirini Vamapadollasalloha Latakantakabhushana Vardhanamurdhwaja Krishna Kalaratrirbhayankari” is a powerful invocation and description of Goddess Kalaratri. The mantra describes her as having a single braid, adorned with Hibiscus flowers, seated on a donkey, with long lips and large ears, her body anointed with oil. It further describes her left foot adorned with a thorny iron anklet. She carries a banner that is raised high and her complexion is dark. Finally, it addresses her as Kalaratri, the terrifying one. The entire mantra paints a picture of her fierce and powerful form, emphasizing her role as the destroyer of darkness, ignorance, and negativity. Despite her fearsome appearance, the mantra is a prayer for protection and liberation from the forces that bind us.

Benefits

Chanting the Kalaratri mantra is believed to bestow numerous benefits upon the devotee:

  • Removal of Fear: As the name suggests, Kalaratri is the destroyer of darkness and fear. Chanting this mantra is believed to help overcome all kinds of fears, anxieties, and phobias.
  • Protection from Negativity: The mantra is a powerful shield against negative energies, evil influences, and malevolent forces. It creates a protective aura around the practitioner.
  • Destruction of Obstacles: Kalaratri is known for her ability to remove obstacles, both internal and external, that hinder one’s progress in life and on the spiritual path.
  • Inner Strength and Courage: By invoking the fierce energy of Kalaratri, the mantra helps develop inner strength, courage, and determination to face challenges.
  • Spiritual Growth: Chanting this mantra aids in spiritual growth by removing the darkness of ignorance and leading towards enlightenment. It helps one connect with their inner power and intuition.
  • Victory over Enemies: The mantra is believed to provide victory over enemies and adversaries, both in the material and spiritual realms.
  • Enhanced Intuition: Regular chanting can sharpen intuition and enhance one’s ability to perceive subtle energies.
  • Detachment from Materialism: The imagery of Kalaratri being “Nagna” (naked) signifies detachment. Chanting this mantra can help one become more detached from materialistic desires and attachments.
  • Transformation and Renewal: Kalaratri represents the transformative power of time and destruction. Chanting her mantra can facilitate inner transformation and renewal, helping to shed old patterns and embrace new beginnings.
  • Relief from Suffering: The mantra can bring relief from suffering caused by negative karma, illness, and other afflictions. It helps one to accept the impermanent nature of life and find peace amidst change.
  • She destroys time and death: Kalaratri is beyond the concept of time and helps to understand the death and rebirth, the never ending cycle of life.
  • Blessing of stability: Maa Kalaratri blesses her devotees with calmness and courage. Worshipping her brings stability in life.