Shiv Chalisa
शिव चालीसा
40-verse chalisa to Lord Shiva — the Destroyer in the Trimurti. Composed in Awadhi-Hindi by Ayodhyadas. Recited especially during the holy month of Sawan and on Mondays.
Significance
Shiva is the most accessible deity in Hindu tradition — said to be quickly pleased by sincere devotion. Reciting Shiv Chalisa with Bilva leaves and water offering brings peace, health, and liberation from worldly bondage.
When recited: Mondays, Sawan month, Maha Shivratri, Pradosh
Benefits
- Removal of doshas (Mangal, Shani, Kaal Sarp)
- Liberation from disease and fear of death
- Peace of mind and spiritual progress
- Marital harmony — especially when recited by women seeking a partner like Shiva
Opening verses
First 6 verses of the Shiv Chalisa — the most-recited opening section.
जय गणेश गिरिजा सुवन, मंगल मूल सुजान।
कहत अयोध्यादास तुम, देहु अभय वरदान॥
जय गिरिजा पति दीन दयाला। सदा करत संतन प्रतिपाला॥
भाल चन्द्रमा सोहत नीके। कानन कुंडल नागफनी के॥
अंग गौर शिर गंग बहाये। मुंडमाल तन क्षार लगाये॥
वस्त्र खाल बाघम्बर सोहे। छवि को देखि नाग मुनि मोहे॥
Meaning
Victory to Ganesha, son of Girija, root of all auspiciousness, all-knowing. Ayodhyadas prays — grant me your fearless boon. Victory to the husband of Girija, merciful to the meek, ever-protector of saints. Moon shines beautifully on his forehead, serpent-hooded earrings in his ears. Fair-bodied, Ganga flowing from his head, garland of skulls, ash smeared on his body. Tiger-skin robe — even nagas and sages are enchanted by his form.
For complete authoritative text
Refer to printed editions from these sources for the full 40-verse chalisa with traditional pronunciation guides: