108 Names of Lord Krishna With Meaning
Lord Krishna is a central figure in Hinduism, and is revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, one of the most important deities in the Hindu pantheon. He is believed to have appeared on Earth over 5,000 years ago in Mathura, India, and his teachings and deeds are chronicled in the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata, as well as in the Bhagavata Purana.
Lord Krishna is known for his mischievous childhood pastimes, his deep wisdom and teachings on dharma, and his role as a charioteer and advisor to the warrior Arjuna in the famous battle of Kurukshetra. He is also associated with the practice of yoga, particularly the Bhakti yoga path of devotion and love for God.
Lord Krishna is depicted in Hindu iconography as a dark-skinned youth with a peacock feather in his hair, playing a flute and surrounded by cows and other animals. He is often shown dancing the Raslila with his beloved gopis (cowherd girls), and his playful nature and deep compassion have made him a beloved figure to millions of Hindus worldwide. 108 names of Shri Krishna are given below with their meaning.
- Achyuta - One who never falls
- Adideva - The first God
- Aditya - The son of Aditi
- Ajanma - One who is without birth
- Akshara - Indestructible
- Amrut - The nectar of immortality
- Anadi - The beginning-less one
- Ananda - The embodiment of bliss
- Ananta - The endless one
- Aniruddha - One who cannot be stopped
- Aparajeet - The undefeated one
- Arjunashishu - Protector of Arjuna
- Govinda - The name "Govinda" means "protector of cows" or "one who gives pleasure to the cows." Lord Krishna is often depicted as a cowherd in Indian mythology.
- Atman - The soul
- Avyukta - One who is indescribable
- Balgopal - The child Krishna
- Banke Bihari - The beloved of the devotees
- Bihari - The one who wanders in the forests of Vrindavan
- Brahma - The creator
- Brihadbhanu - The one with the vast and effulgent radiance
- Chakradhari - The one who holds the Sudarshan Chakra
- Damodar - The one whose waist is bound with a rope
- Dayalu - The compassionate one
- Devaki Nandan - The son of Devaki
- Devakinandan - The darling of Devaki
- Devapriya - The beloved of the gods
- Devesh - The Lord of the gods
- Dhenukasur Mardan - The one who killed the demon Dhenukasur
- Dhir - The courageous one
- Dwarkadheesh - The Lord of Dwarka
- Ghanashyam - The one with the dark complexion
- Gopal - The protector of the cows
- Gopinath - The Lord of the gopis
- Govardhanadhari - The one who lifted the Govardhana hill
- Govinda - The protector of the cows and the senses
- Gyaneshwar - The Lord of knowledge
- Hari - The one who removes all sins
- Hrishikesh - The Lord of the senses
- Jagannath - The Lord of the universe
- Jagdish - The Lord of the world
- Janardan - The one who gives prosperity to the people
- Jishnu - The victorious one
- Kaliyadaman - The one who subdued the Kaliya serpent
- Kamsantak - The one who killed Kamsa
- Kanhaiya - The beloved of the cowherds
- Karunakar - The merciful one
- Keshava - The one with beautiful hair
- Kesheesut - The son of Keshi
- Keshiha - The destroyer of Keshi
- Kishore - The youthful one
- Krishna - The dark one
- Kunj Bihari - The one who enjoys in the groves of Vrindavan
- Lakshmikantam - The husband of Goddess Lakshmi
- Madan - The God of love
- Madhusudan - The destroyer of the demon Madhu
- chala - The still one
- Achyuta - The infallible one
- Adbhuta - The wonderful one
- Adideva - The original Lord
- Aditya - The son of Aditi
- Ajanma - The unborn one
- Ajaya - The unconquerable one
- Akshara - The indestructible one
- Amrita - The immortal one
- Anadi - The beginningless one
- Ananda - The blissful one
- Ananta - The infinite one
- Aniruddha - The unobstructed one
- Anupama - The unparalleled one
- Aparajita - The undefeated one
- Arjuna - The friend of Arjuna
- Arthangadhara - The bearer of meaning
- Avyukta - The unmanifested one
- Balabhadra - The strong one
- Bala - The childlike one
- Banamali - The one who wears a garland of forest flowers
- Bansidhara - The flute player
- Bhagavan - The Lord of all opulence
- Bihari - The one who roams about freely
- Brahmachari - The celibate one
- Chaturbhuj - The four-armed one
- Danavendra - The Lord of the demons
- Dayalu - The compassionate one
- Dayanidhi - The treasure house of mercy
- Devadideva - The God of all Gods
- Devakinandana - The son of Devaki
- Devesha - The Lord of the Lords
- Dhananjaya - The winner of wealth
- Dharma - The embodiment of righteousness
- Dharmik - The righteous one
- Dhruva - The polestar
- Dina Bandhu - The friend of the poor
- Dwarkadhish - The Lord of Dwarka
- Gajendra Moksha - The savior of the elephant
- Ghanashyama - The dark cloud complexioned one
- Giridhari - The lifter of Govardhan hill
- Gopala - The protector of cows
- Gopinatha - The Lord of the gopis
- Govinda - The giver of pleasure to the cows
- Gyaneshwara - The Lord of knowledge
- Hara - The destroyer of ignorance
- Hari - The remover of all miseries
- Hrisheekesha - The Lord of the senses
- Jagadguru - The guru of the universe
- Jagannatha - The Lord of the universe
- Janardhana - The protector of men
- Jyotiraditya - The sun of all luminaries
- Kaliyadaman - The destroyer of the Kaliya serpent
How many names is Krishna known by ?
Krishna is known by many names in Hinduism, and he is said to have 108 different names or manifestations. These names reflect different aspects of his personality and divine qualities. Some of the popular names of Lord Krishna include Govinda, Gopala, Mukunda, Madhusudana, Nanda-nandana, Hari, Janardhana, Damodara, and Vasudeva, among others. Each name has a specific meaning and significance, and devotees often recite these names as a form of devotion and meditation on the divine qualities of Krishna.
Krishna is known by many names in Hinduism, and he is said to have 108 different names or manifestations. These names reflect different aspects of his personality and divine qualities. Some of the popular names of Lord Krishna include Govinda, Gopala, Mukunda, Madhusudana, Nanda-nandana, Hari, Janardhana, Damodara, and Vasudeva, among others. Each name has a specific meaning and significance, and devotees often recite these names as a form of devotion and meditation on the divine qualities of Krishna.
What is Krishna's original name?
Krishna's original name is believed to be "Krishna" itself, which means "dark" or "black" in Sanskrit. This name is based on his dark complexion, which is described in the ancient Hindu scriptures. According to Hindu mythology, Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura, India, and was brought up in the neighboring village of Gokula by Yashoda and Nanda. Throughout his life, he displayed extraordinary qualities and performed many miraculous deeds, earning him the reputation as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and one of the most revered figures in Hinduism.Krishna Name Chanting Benefits and How To Make Japa
Chanting the names of Krishna is considered a powerful form of spiritual practice in Hinduism, and is believed to offer numerous benefits to the practitioner, including:
- Purification of the mind and heart: Chanting the names of Krishna is believed to help purify the mind and heart of negative thoughts and emotions, and promote a sense of inner peace and well-being.
- Devotion and love for God: Chanting the names of Krishna is a form of devotional practice that can help deepen one's love and devotion for God, and cultivate a sense of surrender and humility.
- Protection from negative influences: Chanting the names of Krishna is believed to offer protection from negative influences and energies, and create a shield of divine energy around the practitioner.
- Spiritual progress: Chanting the names of Krishna is considered a powerful tool for spiritual progress and growth, and can help the practitioner develop qualities such as compassion, forgiveness, and selflessness.
Choose a comfortable and quiet place where you can sit and focus on your practice.
- Choose a name of Krishna that resonates with you, such as Govinda, Gopala, or Radha-Krishna.
- Begin by taking a few deep breaths and centering yourself.
- Repeat the name of Krishna either out loud or silently in your mind, with a sense of devotion and love.
- Focus your attention on the sound and vibration of the name, allowing it to fill your heart and mind.
- If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the practice of chanting the name.
- Continue chanting for as long as you feel comfortable, ideally for at least 5-10 minutes a day.
10 miraculous names of Shri Krishna
Krishna - This name means "dark" or "black" in Sanskrit, and refers to Lord Krishna's dark complexion.
10 Krishna mantras along with their meanings in English and detailed explanations:
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Meaning: Salutations to Lord Vasudeva
This mantra is a powerful and widely used Krishna mantra that is believed to offer protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Vasudeva is one of the names of Lord Krishna, and this mantra is a way of paying homage to him.
Hare Krishna Maha Mantra
Meaning: O Lord, please engage me in Your devotional service
The Hare Krishna Maha Mantra is a very popular and widely chanted mantra in the Krishna tradition. It is said to help one achieve self-realization and connect with the divine energy of Krishna.
Krishna Gayatri Mantra
Om Dhamodharaya Vidhmahe Rukmani Vallabhay Dheemahe Thanno Krishna Prachodayath.
Meaning: Let us meditate on Lord Damodara, the lover of Rukmini, and may Lord Krishna enlighten us
This mantra is a form of the Gayatri mantra that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with Krishna and enhance their spiritual growth.
Govinda Ashtakam
Meaning: This is a prayer to Lord Govinda (Krishna) who is the embodiment of all pleasure and who grants all desires to His devotees.
The Govinda Ashtakam is a popular devotional hymn that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to offer protection, peace, and spiritual growth to those who recite it with devotion.
Krishna Stuti
Meaning: This is a prayer to Lord Krishna, asking Him to bestow His blessings on the devotee and help them achieve their goals.
The Krishna Stuti is a devotional prayer that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with Krishna and receive His divine blessings.
Om Kleem Krishnaya Namaha
Meaning: Salutations to Lord Krishna, who is the embodiment of love and compassion
This mantra is a form of the Beej mantra that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with Krishna and enhance their spiritual growth.
Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama
Meaning: I take refuge in Lord Krishna
This mantra is a form of the Krishna mantra that is dedicated to seeking refuge in Lord Krishna. It is believed to offer protection, peace, and spiritual growth to those who recite it with devotion.
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Meaning: Salutations to Lord Vasudeva
This mantra is a powerful and widely used Krishna mantra that is believed to offer protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Vasudeva is one of the names of Lord Krishna, and this mantra is a way of paying homage to him.
Sri Krishna Sharanam Mama
Meaning: I take refuge in Lord Krishna
This mantra is a devotional prayer that is dedicated to seeking refuge in Lord Krishna. It is believed to offer protection, peace, and spiritual growth to those who recite it with devotion.
Om Radha Krishnaya Namaha
Meaning: Salutations to Radha and Krishna
This mantra is a form of the Beej mantra that is dedicated to the divine couple Radha and Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with the divine energy of Radha and Krishna and enhance their spiritual growth.
- Govinda - This name means "one who gives pleasure to the cows," and is often used to refer to Lord Krishna's role as a cowherd.
- Gopala - This name means "protector of the cows," and is another name associated with Lord Krishna's role as a cowherd.
- Madhusudana - This name means "slayer of the demon Madhu," and refers to Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Madhu.
- Mukunda - This name means "giver of liberation," and refers to Lord Krishna's role as a liberator of souls.
- Murari - This name means "slayer of the demon Mura," and refers to Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Mura.
- Vasudeva - This name means "son of Vasudeva," and refers to Lord Krishna's father, who was a king.
- Hari - This name means "one who removes or destroys," and is often used to refer to Lord Krishna's role as a destroyer of evil.
- Janardhana - This name means "one who sustains or supports all beings," and is often used to refer to Lord Krishna's role as a protector and sustainer of the universe.
- Radha-Krishna - This name refers to the divine couple of Radha and Krishna, who are often worshipped together and represent the divine union of masculine and feminine energies.
10 Krishna mantras along with their meanings in English and detailed explanations:
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Meaning: Salutations to Lord Vasudeva
This mantra is a powerful and widely used Krishna mantra that is believed to offer protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Vasudeva is one of the names of Lord Krishna, and this mantra is a way of paying homage to him.
Hare Krishna Maha Mantra
Meaning: O Lord, please engage me in Your devotional service
The Hare Krishna Maha Mantra is a very popular and widely chanted mantra in the Krishna tradition. It is said to help one achieve self-realization and connect with the divine energy of Krishna.
Krishna Gayatri Mantra
Om Dhamodharaya Vidhmahe Rukmani Vallabhay Dheemahe Thanno Krishna Prachodayath.
Meaning: Let us meditate on Lord Damodara, the lover of Rukmini, and may Lord Krishna enlighten us
This mantra is a form of the Gayatri mantra that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with Krishna and enhance their spiritual growth.
Govinda Ashtakam
Meaning: This is a prayer to Lord Govinda (Krishna) who is the embodiment of all pleasure and who grants all desires to His devotees.
The Govinda Ashtakam is a popular devotional hymn that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to offer protection, peace, and spiritual growth to those who recite it with devotion.
Krishna Stuti
Meaning: This is a prayer to Lord Krishna, asking Him to bestow His blessings on the devotee and help them achieve their goals.
The Krishna Stuti is a devotional prayer that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with Krishna and receive His divine blessings.
Om Kleem Krishnaya Namaha
Meaning: Salutations to Lord Krishna, who is the embodiment of love and compassion
This mantra is a form of the Beej mantra that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with Krishna and enhance their spiritual growth.
Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama
Meaning: I take refuge in Lord Krishna
This mantra is a form of the Krishna mantra that is dedicated to seeking refuge in Lord Krishna. It is believed to offer protection, peace, and spiritual growth to those who recite it with devotion.
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Meaning: Salutations to Lord Vasudeva
This mantra is a powerful and widely used Krishna mantra that is believed to offer protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Vasudeva is one of the names of Lord Krishna, and this mantra is a way of paying homage to him.
Sri Krishna Sharanam Mama
Meaning: I take refuge in Lord Krishna
This mantra is a devotional prayer that is dedicated to seeking refuge in Lord Krishna. It is believed to offer protection, peace, and spiritual growth to those who recite it with devotion.
Om Radha Krishnaya Namaha
Meaning: Salutations to Radha and Krishna
This mantra is a form of the Beej mantra that is dedicated to the divine couple Radha and Krishna. It is believed to help one develop a deeper connection with the divine energy of Radha and Krishna and enhance their spiritual growth.
"Om Kleem Krishnaya Namah" - This Beej Mantra is a powerful mantra used to invoke the energy and blessings of Lord Krishna. The syllable "Kleem" represents the divine feminine energy, while "Krishnaya" is the name of Lord Krishna, and "Namah" means "I bow to you". Therefore, this mantra can be translated as "I bow to the divine energy of Lord Krishna, who embodies the power of the divine feminine".
108 Names of Lord Krishna With Meaning
Krishna - The name "Krishna" means "dark" or "black," which refers to Lord Krishna's complexion. He is also known as "Keshava" which means "one with beautiful hair."
Govinda - The name "Govinda" means "protector of cows" or "one who gives pleasure to the cows." Lord Krishna is often depicted as a cowherd in Indian mythology.
Gopala - The name "Gopala" means "protector of the cows" and is a popular name for Lord Krishna, who is often depicted as a cowherd.
Madhusudana - The name "Madhusudana" means "the killer of the demon Madhu." Lord Krishna is believed to have defeated many demons, including Madhu and Kaitabha.
Murari - The name "Murari" means "the enemy of Mura," which refers to another demon that Lord Krishna defeated.
Nanda-nandana - The name "Nanda-nandana" means "the son of Nanda," who was Lord Krishna's foster father. Lord Krishna spent his childhood in Nanda's care and was often referred to as "Nanda's son."
Damodara - The name "Damodara" means "one who is bound with a rope around his waist." As a child, Lord Krishna was notorious for his mischievous behavior, and his mother Yashoda once tied him up with a rope to prevent him from causing trouble.
Mukunda - The name "Mukunda" means "one who gives liberation or moksha." Lord Krishna is believed to be the ultimate savior who can help devotees attain spiritual liberation or moksha.
Gopala - Protector of the cows
Yadunandan - Son of the Yadu dynasty
Dwarkadhish - King of Dwarka
Murari - Slayer of the demon Mura
Shyamsundar - Beautiful dark-complexioned one
Hrishikesh - Lord of the senses
Nandlal - Beloved of Nanda
Janardan - One who helps people overcome their difficulties
Keshav - One with beautiful hair
Madhusudan - Slayer of the demon Madhu.
Govinda - The name "Govinda" means "protector of cows" or "one who gives pleasure to the cows." Lord Krishna is often depicted as a cowherd in Indian mythology.
Gopala - The name "Gopala" means "protector of the cows" and is a popular name for Lord Krishna, who is often depicted as a cowherd.
Madhusudana - The name "Madhusudana" means "the killer of the demon Madhu." Lord Krishna is believed to have defeated many demons, including Madhu and Kaitabha.
Murari - The name "Murari" means "the enemy of Mura," which refers to another demon that Lord Krishna defeated.
Nanda-nandana - The name "Nanda-nandana" means "the son of Nanda," who was Lord Krishna's foster father. Lord Krishna spent his childhood in Nanda's care and was often referred to as "Nanda's son."
Damodara - The name "Damodara" means "one who is bound with a rope around his waist." As a child, Lord Krishna was notorious for his mischievous behavior, and his mother Yashoda once tied him up with a rope to prevent him from causing trouble.
Mukunda - The name "Mukunda" means "one who gives liberation or moksha." Lord Krishna is believed to be the ultimate savior who can help devotees attain spiritual liberation or moksha.
Gopala - Protector of the cows
Yadunandan - Son of the Yadu dynasty
Dwarkadhish - King of Dwarka
Murari - Slayer of the demon Mura
Shyamsundar - Beautiful dark-complexioned one
Hrishikesh - Lord of the senses
Nandlal - Beloved of Nanda
Janardan - One who helps people overcome their difficulties
Keshav - One with beautiful hair
Madhusudan - Slayer of the demon Madhu.