Saha Navavatu Shanti Mantraसह नाववतु
Devoted to Brahman / universal teacher-student bond
Source: Krishna Yajur Veda / Taittiriya Upanishad
Transliteration
om saha navavatu, saha nau bhunaktu saha viryam karavavahai tejasvinavadhitamastu ma vidvishavahai om shantih shantih shantih
Meaning (English)
May He protect both of us. May He nourish both of us. May we both work together with great vigour. May our study be vigorous and effective. May we not hate each other. Om peace, peace, peace. The classical teacher-student peace prayer from Taittiriya Upanishad — recited at the beginning of every Vedic study session. Universally adopted by yoga schools and Sanskrit chant communities worldwide.
Benefits (Phal)
Foundational invocation for any teacher-student relationship. Cultivates mutual respect, non-hostility, and joint dedication to wisdom transmission. Daily recitation before scripture study, classroom teaching, or any pedagogical context. Recommended for parents-children dyads cultivating spiritual transmission, gurus-disciples in formal lineages, and modern teacher-student educational contexts.
When to Chant
Beginning of any Vedic study session, Guru Purnima (Ashadha Purnima), first day of academic term, beginning of any teaching engagement.
How to Chant
Sit facing east. Both teacher and student (or solo for self-study). Anjali mudra at heart. Chant slowly together. Final shantih three times — first loud, second medium, third whispered.
Book a pandit for Saha Navavatu Shanti Mantra jaap
Major sankalp (1.25 lakh count or more) traditionally requires a trained pandit. Verified pandits perform on your behalf with full video proof + sankalpa with your gotra/nakshatra.