Japa of Mahamantra

by Swami Sivananda

Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare;
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare.

At the end of Dvapara-Yuga, Narada went to Brahma and addressed him thus: “O Lord, how shall I, roaming over the earth, be able to cross Kali?” To which Brahma thus replied: “Well asked. Hearken to that which all Srutis (the Vedas) keep secret and hidden, through which one may cross the Samsara (mundane existence) of Kali. He shakes off (the evil effects of) Kali through the mere uttering of the Name of the Lord Narayana, who is the Primeval Purusha. ” Again Narada asked Brahma: “What is the Name?” To which Hiranyagarbha (Brahma) replied thus: (the words are) “1. Hare, 2. Rama, 3. Hare, 4. Rama, 5. Rama, 6. Rama, 7. Hare, 8. Hare, 9. Hare, 10. Krishna, 11. Hare, 12. Krishna, 13. Krishna, 14. Krishna, 15. Hare, 16. Hare. These sixteen Names (words) are destructive of the evil effects of Kali. No better means than this is to be seen in all the Vedas. These (sixteen Names) destroy the Avarana (or the veil which produces the sense of individuality) of Jiva surrounded by the sixteen Kalas (rays). Then like the sphere of the sun which shines fully after the clouds (screening it) disperse, Parabrahman alone shines. “

Narada asked: “O Lord! what are the rules to be observed with reference to it?” To which Brahma replied that there are no rules for it. Whosoever in a pure or an impure state, utters these always, attains the same world of, or proximity with, or the same form of, or absorption into Brahman.

Whosoever utters three and a half crores – This number can be reached by uttering the Mantra completely within one year if uttered at the rate of a lakh per day; and within ten years if uttered at the rate of 10, 000 per day. -Kalisantarana Upanishad (or thirty-five million) times this Mantra composed of sixteen Names (of words) crosses the sin of the murder of a Brahmin. He becomes purified from the sin of the theft of gold. He becomes purified from the sin of cohabitation with women of low caste. He is purified from the sins of wrong done to Pitris, Devas and men. Having given up all Dharmas, he becomes freed at once from all sins. He is at once released from all bondage. That he is at once released from all bondage is the Upanishad.

The Transformative Practice of Japa of Mahamantra

The sacred repetition of the Divine Name has always been regarded as one of the simplest and most effective spiritual disciplines. Japa of Mahamantra purifies the mind, strengthens faith, and gradually awakens inner awareness. Swami Sivananda emphasized that sincere repetition of God’s Name, performed with devotion and concentration, has the power to remove negative tendencies and fill the heart with peace. Every repetition becomes a step toward spiritual growth, helping the seeker remain connected with the Divine amidst the distractions of daily life.

Regular Japa of Mahamantra creates a calm and disciplined mind. Instead of allowing thoughts to wander endlessly, the practitioner learns to focus on the sacred vibration of the mantra. This steady practice cultivates patience, humility, and self-control while reducing anxiety and restlessness. As devotion deepens, the mantra ceases to be merely spoken words and becomes a living spiritual force that inspires purity in thought, speech, and action. The teachings preserved by Devotional India encourage aspirants to embrace this timeless path with sincerity and unwavering faith.

Swami Sivananda taught that repetition should always be accompanied by love, faith, and remembrance of the Divine. Mechanical chanting may offer some benefit, but heartfelt repetition transforms the entire personality. The sound of the mantra gradually fills the consciousness, replacing fear, anger, and attachment with hope, compassion, and inner contentment. Through consistent practice, even ordinary moments become opportunities for spiritual reflection and self-improvement.

The beauty of Japa of Mahamantra lies in its simplicity. It requires no elaborate preparation and can be practised during quiet meditation, while walking, or even while performing daily responsibilities. The constant remembrance of the Divine Name keeps the mind elevated and prevents it from becoming absorbed in worldly distractions. Over time, the practitioner experiences greater mental clarity, emotional balance, and unwavering confidence in the Divine presence.

According to Swami Sivananda, perseverance is the key to success. The fruits of Japa of Mahamantra unfold gradually through regular practice, sincere devotion, and moral living. Each repetition purifies the heart and brings the aspirant closer to the realization of the eternal Self. The wisdom shared through Devotional India continues to inspire spiritual seekers to adopt this sacred discipline, reminding them that the Divine Name is both the path and the companion on the journey toward lasting peace, wisdom, and liberation.