Namasmarana

Namasmarana

Adi Sankaracharya, who undoubtedly occupies the foremost place of eminence and honor amongst the great vedantins [philosophers] and jnanis [sages] that Bharat [India] has produced, finally rea­lized in his later years that in this age of Kali (Kaliyuga [Iron Age]), the only sure and safe path along which humanity could successfully reach the supreme goal is that of bhakti [devotion] developed through namasmarana [recitation of the Lord’s name]. Hence he proclaimed:

‘The divine name of Lord Hari [God] and that alone is my support and refuge. In Kaliyuga there is no other effective path for salvation.’

He proceeded to compose and give unto the world many devotional hymns like the famous “Bhaja Govindam” for fostering bhakti in the hearts of men.

In today’s world, our environment and conditions of life are such that it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to pursue properly the practice of rigorous `tapas’ [penance] or to follow the intricate paths of rajayoga or jnanayoga [union with God through will power or wisdom]. The all knowing Lord, in His infinite compassion, has therefore declared in the “Gita” and in “Shrimad Bhagavatam” that during the Kaliyuga period, He can be easily attained through nama-sankirtanam [group singing of His name]

The nine progressive steps in bhakti sadhana [spiritual effort] have been explained by Prahlada [a devotee of Lord Vishnu] as shravanam. keertanam, smaranam, padasevanam, archanam, vandanam, dasyam, sakhyam, and finally atmanivedanam [faith, praise, remembrance, worship of the feet, prayer, reverence, servitude , friendship, and surrender]. Namasmaranam combines in itself the first three steps of shravanam, keertanam, and smaranam, and it will rapidly lead one past the next five steps to the final stage of complete surrender and merger with the supreme.

Namasmaran literally means remembrance of the divine name of God. In practice, this sadhana may take any of the following three forms: japam [chanting the name], dhyanam [meditation], or sankirtanam [group singing]. Each of these methods has its own distinct advantages, but all the three paths, whether pursued separately or conjointly, will certainly enable man to get rid of the evil qualities of lust, greed, anger, jealousy, and egoism and to develop the purest form of prema [love] and thereby achieve shanti [peace], leading to supreme and eternal bliss.

Japam consists of the simple process of chanting the divine name of God or reciting some sacred mantras [formulae], the mind being kept absolutely pure. The great advantage of this method is that it can be practiced at any time and at any place or even in the midst of the routine activities of one’s mundane life. The chanting or the recitation of the divine name, if performed with faith and devotion, automatically makes one’s mind dwell on the form and glory of God. When such a state of God consciousness pervades one’s mind, there is no longer any room left for bad thoughts and evil instincts. The manas [mind] is purified and from then on, life becomes a dedicated journey on the God-ward path. The importance of this method has been stressed by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita where He has declared,’ ‘Of yajnas [sacrificial worship], I am japa yajna.’

Dhyana, which is another mode of namasmarana, consists of the process of concentrated meditation on the Lord’s divine form and glory. By practicing this sadhana of single-minded meditation on the Paramatma [supreme absolute], the mind that is by nature wayward, gets har­nessed and ceases to run after sense objects. Once the sensory cravings are banished from the mind, the worries, miseries, and sorrows arising from worldly attachments will all disappear and one is enabled to gradually attain satchitananda [bliss]. However, in the manner of living that  exists today, it is seldom possible for one to spend long hours in dhyana and hence it would be preferable to combine the methods of japam and dhyana, so that part of one’s day can be utilized for such sadhana.

Namasankirtan means the loud singing and recitation of the Lord’s name and glory. Even though an individual can perform this sadhana it is more effective when it is done conjointly in the company of other sadhakas [devotees]. Then, it is commonly referred to as bhajan. If performed with discipline and devotion, bhajan offers the easiest medium through which one is enabled to spend some time in communion with God rising above all the cares and anxieties of worldly life. The ecstasy with which bhajan can fill our hearts can only be experienced and is not susceptible to any description. Another great advantage of participation in bhajan is that it helps one to get rid of one’s ego that is the main obstacle in the path of all spiritual progress. Furthermore, while performing one’s own spiritual sadhana through bhajan, one is simultaneously re ndering service to the entire people of the locality also, because the vibrations caused by the chanting of the Lord’s name, with sincerity and devotion, spread out far and wide and sanctify the atmosphere of the entire locality.

These beneficial results are even more pronounced in the case of nagarsankirtan . There, groups of sadhakas go round the streets in the early hours immediately preceding day break, melodiously singing the glories of God. The message of namasmarana is thus carried to many homes in the Brahma muhurta [4 to 6 a.m. auspicious time for prayers] period. Nagarsankirtan, if performed regularly and properly, helps one to completely eliminate `ahamkara’ (egoism), and elevate oneself spiritually; and, it also simultaneously awakens and tethers God consciousness, the spread of which is so essential for the welfare of humanity.

Has not Lord Krishna declared, “One who constantly chants aloud My names without any sense of shame, not merely attains oneness with Me but also brings along with himself crores [millions] of others to My feet?”

One often hears Kaliyuga being described as a bad and inauspicious period. What a thorough misconception it is! Whatever other defects Kaliyuga may have, it offers to mankind, more than ever before, the most precious opportunity of God‑realization through the facile and safe path of namasmarana. Are we not the most fortunate amongst the entire human race, that has existed since the beginning of time, to have been born during this period of the Kali Age when the Divine has again incarnated in human from, more resplendent than ever before and to have been blessed with the unique and precious chance of having His darshan [sight of a divine being], sparshan [divine touch], and sambhashan [conversation]? Unlike during the time of the earlier Avatars we are also being mercifully given the great privilege of participation in His divine mission of dharma samsthapana [the reestablishment of righteousness]. Let us fully utilize this rare chance that has been bestowed on humanity after many a yuga.

Swami has again explained to us the value of namasmarana and given detailed directions as to how this sadhana should be performed. We need to devote ourselves earnestly to a strict observance of these divine directions, and if our endeavors are sincere, He will certainly guide us on our journey to His lotus feet.

~Justice V. Balakrishna Eradi
Source: Sanathana Sarathi, December 1971

Namasmarana

In the spiritual traditions of India, Namasmarana is regarded as one of the simplest yet most powerful paths to inner transformation. It refers to the continuous remembrance and repetition of the divine name with love, faith, and devotion. Saints and sages across generations have emphasized that when the mind becomes absorbed in the sacred name, it gradually moves away from worldly distractions and turns toward divine consciousness. The practice requires no special place, elaborate rituals, or complicated procedures. It can be performed anywhere and at any time, making it accessible to people from all walks of life.

The essence of Namasmarana lies in remembering God with sincerity. Human beings often spend their days occupied with numerous responsibilities, desires, and concerns. Amid this constant activity, the mind becomes restless and scattered. Repeating the divine name acts as a gentle anchor, helping the mind return to a state of peace and focus. Whether one chants aloud, whispers softly, or repeats the name silently within the heart, the spiritual effect remains profound when performed with devotion.

Many great saints taught that the divine name carries the presence and power of the Lord. Through regular practice of Namasmarana, devotees experience a gradual purification of thoughts and emotions. Negative tendencies such as anger, jealousy, and fear begin to lose their hold, while qualities like compassion, patience, and humility naturally emerge. This transformation does not happen overnight but unfolds steadily through sincere and consistent effort.

In today’s fast-paced world, people often search for happiness in external achievements and possessions. While these may provide temporary satisfaction, lasting peace comes from connecting with the divine source within. Namasmarana offers a practical way to establish this connection. Even a few moments spent remembering God during daily activities can bring calmness and clarity. Over time, the practice becomes a constant companion, guiding individuals through both joyful and challenging situations.

The lives of countless devotees demonstrate the power of sacred remembrance. Many faced difficulties, hardships, and uncertainties, yet they remained strong because their hearts were anchored in divine remembrance. Through Namasmarana, they discovered courage, faith, and unwavering trust in God’s grace. Their experiences continue to inspire spiritual seekers across the world.

Another significant aspect of Namasmarana is its ability to unite people beyond differences of language, culture, or background. Every spiritual tradition has sacred names that devotees lovingly repeat. While the names may vary, the underlying purpose remains the same—to cultivate devotion and draw closer to the Divine. This universal appeal makes the practice relevant for everyone seeking spiritual growth and inner harmony.

The repetition of the divine name also helps in developing concentration. Modern life constantly pulls attention in multiple directions, making it difficult to maintain focus. By gently bringing the mind back to the sacred name whenever it wanders, practitioners strengthen their ability to remain centered. This improved concentration not only benefits spiritual practice but also enhances effectiveness in daily responsibilities.

Readers of Devotional India often explore various methods of devotion, and among them, this sacred practice stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. It does not require extensive study or physical effort. What matters most is sincerity, faith, and regularity. Even a few minutes each day can create a noticeable difference in one’s mental and spiritual well-being.

The beauty of Namasmarana lies in its accessibility. A devotee may chant while walking, working, traveling, or resting. The practice gradually becomes woven into everyday life until remembrance of God feels natural and effortless. As devotion deepens, the heart experiences a sense of divine companionship that brings comfort and joy.

According to spiritual teachings, the divine name has the power to remove ignorance and awaken wisdom. Continuous remembrance helps individuals recognize the presence of God not only within themselves but also in all beings. This expanded awareness fosters kindness, respect, and love toward others. Such qualities contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society.

Many spiritual seekers who follow the guidance shared through Devotional India discover that regular remembrance creates a sacred atmosphere in their homes and hearts. Family members often experience greater peace and understanding when spiritual practices become part of daily life. The vibrations generated through devotional repetition inspire positivity and strengthen faith.

Ultimately, Namasmarana is far more than a spiritual exercise; it is a way of life. It transforms ordinary moments into opportunities for divine connection and fills the heart with gratitude and devotion. Through persistent remembrance, individuals gradually move closer to spiritual fulfillment and experience the joy that comes from living in the awareness of God’s presence. The teachings highlighted by Devotional India continue to remind devotees that the divine name is a priceless treasure available to everyone. By embracing Namasmarana with sincerity and love, one can walk the path of devotion with confidence, peace, and unwavering faith.