In Gujarati weddings, Mangalashtak refers to a set of eight auspicious stanzas ( s h l o k a s ) recited during the ritual. This is the moment when a curtain (the
) is held between the bride and groom before they see each other for the first time at the wedding altar. 1. Cultural Significance Auspicious Beginning: The word "Mangalashtak" is derived from (auspicious) and
(eight stanzas). These verses are meant to invoke the blessings of deities, planets, and ancestors for the couple’s future. The "Kuryat Sada Mangalam" Refrain: Each stanza typically ends with the phrase "Kuryat Sada Mangalam" (May they always do/bring auspiciousness). The Big Reveal: As the final verse ends, the is removed, and the couple exchanges garlands ( ), signaling their union. 2. Common Themes in Gujarati Mangalashtak While the original stanzas are often in
, Gujarati weddings frequently include regional variations or translations that emphasize: Ganesh Sthapana: Invoking Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles. The Trio of Deities: Seeking blessings from Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva). Holy Rivers and Places:
Mentioning the Ganges, Yamuna, and sacred pilgrimage sites like Somnath or Dwarka to sanctify the union. 3. Sample Lyrics (Sanskrit-Gujarati Tradition)
A popular opening stanza used in many Gujarati households is the Jain-influenced or Vedic version: Shrimannamra-sur-asurendra-mukuta-pradyot-ratnaprabha
Bhasvat-pad-nakhendavah, pravachana-ambodhi-ndavah sthayinah. Ye sarve jin-siddha-soorya-nugatastey Paathakah sadhavah, Stutyaa yogijanaishcha panch-gur-vah; kurvantu tey Mangalam 4. Modern Adaptations mangalashtak lyrics gujarati
Understanding Mangalashtak: Sacred Gujarati Wedding Verses In a traditional Gujarati Hindu wedding, the Mangalashtak represents one of the most spiritually profound and emotionally resonant moments of the ceremony. These sacred verses are chanted during the Hasta Melap (joining of hands) or just before the removal of the Antarpat (the silk curtain separating the couple), invoking divine blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life together. What is Mangalashtak?
The word is derived from two Sanskrit terms: "Mangal" meaning auspicious or blessed, and "Ashtak" meaning a collection of eight. Traditionally, it consists of eight poetic stanzas—though more can be added—intended to wish the couple well-being, peace, and love.
While often sung in Sanskrit, many modern Gujarati weddings use localized versions or contemporary compositions that blend these ancient mantras with Gujarati lyrics to make the meaning more accessible to the families. Mangalashtak Lyrics in Gujarati (Traditional Sample)
The following is a popular Gujarati rendition often used to invite the presence of the divine and elders’ blessings:
વંદન હો ગણનાથ શક્તિ શિવજી વંદન હજો ગુરુને સદા,ગીતાના ગાયક તમે નિવસજો આનંદ થી સાથમાં.વાક્દેવી મા શારદા પ્રણમવાં સંસ્કાર ને જ્ઞાન દા,કરજો જીવન પ્રેમ પૂર્ણ મધુરું "કુર્ચાત સદા મંગલમ".
(Salutations to Lord Ganesha, Shakti, and Shiva; salutations always to the Guru. May the singer of the Gita reside within us with joy. We bow to Goddess Sharda for culture and knowledge. May our lives be filled with sweet love—May there always be auspiciousness.) Significance in the Wedding Ritual In Gujarati weddings, Mangalashtak refers to a set
The Mangalashtak occurs at a pivotal transition in the wedding program:
The Antarpat Removal: As the family and guests sing these verses, they shower the couple with rice (akshat) or flower petals.
Universal Acceptance: This gesture signifies society's and the divine’s acceptance of the union.
Spiritual Protection: The mantras are believed to ward off the "evil eye" and create a protective spiritual atmosphere for the couple’s new beginning. Popular Audio and Musical Versions
If you are planning a wedding and looking for high-quality audio or professional recitations, several renowned Gujarati artists have recorded these verses: Mangalashtak | Ashit Desai | Gujarati wedding ceremony
1. Auspicious Attention
O auspicious ceremony, may everyone pay attention. The beloved bride and groom swell with joy. Bless them together, honor their happy household. Victory to Goddess Mangala, bestow happiness and welfare. English Translation (Meaning of the Verses)
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2. First Step – Lord Ganesha
In the first round, the couple worships Lord Ganesha – the remover of obstacles, giver of success. Grant them prosperity, peace, and wealth. May they always remain blessed.
3. Second Step – Sita and Rama
Like Sita and Rama lived in the forest with devotion, may you live forever with love. Never break apart. In sorrow, be a true companion and listen to each other’s prayers.
4. Third Step – Goddess Lakshmi
May Goddess Lakshmi shower happiness and riches. May there never be scarcity of food and clothing in the home. With husband-wife love and prosperity, may their path be bright.
(The remaining four verses typically address good health, virtuous children, friendship, and liberation/salvation.)
The mangalashtak lyrics gujarati are not chanted monotonously. They follow a dhun (tune) similar to the Mangal Dhun used in Satyanarayan Katha.
YouTube Tip: If you need the tune, search for "Gujarati Mangalashtak by Hemu Gadhavi" or "Mangalashtak by Aishwarya Majmudar"—their versions align with the lyrics above.
શ્રીમદ્વારકાધીશ શરણં વિશાલમ્, ગોવિંદ ગોપીજન વલ્લભાય | દેવકીનંદન વિરાટ્ પુરુષમ્, નમામિ દેવં શરણં વિશાલમ્ ||