Lord Krishna has many beautiful names and mantras. Among them, “Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva” holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. It’s not just a chant—it’s a spiritual call from the soul, invoking divine love, peace, and protection.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning and the spiritual significance of this mantra. We’ll also discuss the benefits of chanting and why this mantra is so powerful, even today.
Full Mantra
श्री कृष्ण गोविन्द हरे मुरारे
हे नाथ नारायण वासुदेव
Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari
Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva
Literal Meaning of the Mantra
Let’s break it down word by word to understand the literal and devotional meanings:
1. Shri (श्री)
- Literal Meaning: Auspicious, sacred, wealth, beauty, and divine grace.
- Spiritual Essence: Often used as a respectful prefix before divine names. “Shri” symbolizes Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and signifies the graceful aspect of the Divine. When attached to Krishna’s name, it represents his divine radiance and supreme beauty.
2. Krishna (कृष्ण)
- Literal Meaning: The dark one; derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Krish’, meaning to attract.
- Spiritual Essence: Krishna means “the all-attractive one”. He is considered the Supreme Personality of Godhead in many bhakti traditions. He embodies love, joy, playfulness, and wisdom. In the mantra, calling “Krishna” is invoking divine joy and universal love.
3. Govind (गोविन्द)
- Literal Meaning: Protector or lord of cows (Go means “cow”; vind means “protector” or “finder”).
- Spiritual Essence: Krishna, as Govind, is the caretaker of all living beings, just as he tended cows in Vrindavan. He nourishes and sustains all creation. He is also the giver of knowledge and bliss (Go can also mean Vedas or senses in a deeper sense).
4. Hare (हरे)
- Literal Meaning: A vocative form of Hari (one who takes away or removes).
- Spiritual Essence: “Hare” is an appeal to the divine feminine energy (Shakti). It is also an appeal to Hari (Vishnu/Krishna) as the remover of pain. Additionally, it addresses the removal of illusion and suffering. It expresses surrender and longing, saying, “Please remove my sorrows and ignorance.”
5. Murari (मुरारे)
- Literal Meaning: The slayer of the demon Mura.
- Spiritual Essence: Mura represents ego, pride, and inner darkness. Krishna as Murari is the destroyer of inner demons and protector of dharma. This name reminds us that the divine can overcome all negative forces, both external and internal.
6. Hey (हे)
- Literal Meaning: An interjection meaning “Oh!” or “O!”—used to address someone with reverence.
- Spiritual Essence: It expresses devotional calling. “Hey Nath!” is like calling out in prayer—“O Lord!”
7. Nath (नाथ)
- Literal Meaning: Lord, protector, or master.
- Spiritual Essence: Refers to God as the guardian and caretaker of all beings. It reflects the devotee’s recognition of Krishna as the divine authority and protector.
8. Narayan (नारायण)
- Literal Meaning: The refuge of all beings (Nara = beings/humanity; Ayana = resting place).
- Spiritual Essence: One of the most sacred names of Lord Vishnu. It means the one in whom all beings rest and who pervades everything. Narayan is the omnipresent divine reality and the source of all creation.
9. Vasudeva (वासुदेव)
- Literal Meaning: Son of Vasudeva (Krishna’s earthly father), or one who dwells in all things (Vasu = to dwell).
- Spiritual Essence: Krishna is called Vasudeva as he was born to Vasudeva and Devaki. But on a deeper level, Vasudeva means “the indwelling God.” This refers to the one who resides in every heart and atom of the universe.
Putting It All Together
“O beautiful and all-attractive Lord Krishna,
O Govind, the protector of all beings,
O remover of sorrow, slayer of ego and illusion,
O divine Lord, refuge of the universe,
O Vasudeva, who dwells in every heart—
I bow to You, I call upon You with love and surrender.”
This mantra is not just a prayer—it’s a complete spiritual surrender. It acknowledges Krishna’s many divine roles. He acts as a loving protector. He destroys negativity. He is an inner guide, a universal sustainer, and the source of all joy.
Spiritual Significance
The mantra “Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva” is more than a string of divine names. It is a sacred invocation of the Lord’s presence. It is a soulful cry for divine connection. It is a complete act of surrender to the Supreme Being.
Let’s explore the deeper spiritual layers of this powerful mantra:
1. A Mantra of Total Surrender (Sharanagati)
Each name in the mantra reflects a different aspect of the Divine. It reminds us that we can turn to Krishna in every stage of life. This includes times of joy, confusion, fear, or devotion.
Chanting this mantra is like saying:
“O Lord Krishna, I recognize You as my everything—my guide, my protector, my inner self. I surrender all my burdens to You.”
This deep act of surrender (known in Sanskrit as sharanagati) brings freedom from anxiety. It provides clarity of mind. Additionally, it offers a profound sense of inner peace.
2. Invoking Divine Love (Prema Bhakti)
Krishna is the embodiment of pure, unconditional love. In this mantra, calling out His many names builds a personal relationship with Him.
Just like a child calls out to their mother, this mantra becomes a heartfelt cry of longing. It is a conversation between the soul and the divine.
It opens the heart to prema bhakti—a deep, emotional love that transcends rituals and touches the spirit.
3. Transformation Through Sound (Nada Yoga)
According to Nada Yoga, the path of spiritual realization through sound, divine names are not just words—they carry vibrational power. The repetition of these names:
- Cleanses the mind of distractions and negativity
- Raises the consciousness from the mundane to the spiritual
- Aligns the chanter with divine energy and cosmic rhythm
Each time you chant this mantra, it’s like tuning your inner frequency to Krishna’s divine presence.
4. Awakening the Inner Krishna (Atma-Tattva)
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says:
“I am seated in everyone’s heart.” (Bhagavad Gita 15.15)
This mantra is not just about worshiping an external deity. It is a path to awakening Krishna within. Krishna is the inner source of wisdom, love, and strength that exists in all of us.
With regular chanting, you begin to feel:
- Less controlled by ego and emotions
- More connected to your soul’s purpose
- Deep joy in simplicity, service, and surrender
5. A Bridge Between Worlds (Bhakti and Vedanta)
What makes this mantra special is that it bridges the personal and the universal.
- On one level, it is bhakti—devotional worship of a personal God (Krishna, Murari, Vasudeva).
- On a higher level, it aligns with Vedantic truth—that God is formless, eternal, and all-pervading (Narayan).
You may approach this mantra with the love of a devotee. Alternatively, you might use the inquiry of a seeker. Either way, it brings you closer to spiritual truth.
6. Healing Through Divine Names
Many believe that divine names have the power to heal—mentally, emotionally, and even physically. Chanting this mantra:
- Reduces mental chatter and overthinking
- Fills the heart with hope and courage
- Removes inner blocks like fear, pride, and guilt
- Encourages self-purification and forgiveness
In essence, it becomes a medicine for the soul.
A Daily Spiritual Practice
Chanting “Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari…” can become a simple daily spiritual practice, even for beginners. It doesn’t require elaborate rituals or strict rules—just a few minutes of sincerity.
You can:
- Chant it mentally while walking
- Whisper it during meditation
- Play it in the background during daily tasks
- Sing it with devotion and feeling
The more you engage with the mantra, the more you’ll notice its subtle effect on your inner peace. Its profound effect is also evident in your outer life.
Benefits of Chanting
The mantra “Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva” is not just a devotional chant. It’s a powerful spiritual tool. It uplifts the heart. It calms the mind. It realigns you with your inner self.
Let’s explore the transformative benefits of chanting this mantra regularly, both spiritually and psychologically.
1. Brings Inner Peace and Mental Clarity
One of the most immediate effects of chanting this mantra is a sense of calmness. The rhythmic repetition of divine names slows down the restless mind and reduces anxiety.
- Eases overthinking and mental clutter
- Promotes mindfulness and present-moment awareness
- Acts like a natural anti-stress remedy
Even 5–10 minutes of chanting can noticeably shift your mental state.
2. Heals Emotional Pain and Heartbreak
Each name in the mantra represents a divine quality—protection, compassion, love. When chanted with sincerity, this mantra becomes a soothing balm for emotional wounds.
- Helps release grief, sadness, or fear
- Fosters self-love and forgiveness
- Rebuilds inner strength after emotional trauma
Many devotees say it feels like “Krishna is holding their hand” in tough times.
3. Removes Negative Energies and Thought Patterns
“Murari”—the slayer of demons—symbolizes the destruction of inner negativity, such as ego, pride, jealousy, and fear.
Regular chanting purifies the mind and aura:
- Dispels negative thoughts and emotions
- Clears energetic blockages or heaviness
- Promotes clarity, compassion, and positivity
Chanting this mantra can be like taking a spiritual shower every day.
4. Awakens Devotion and Spiritual Connection
This mantra is steeped in bhakti (devotion). It helps open the heart and build a loving connection with Lord Krishna.
- Deepens your faith and surrender
- Makes you more receptive to divine grace
- Strengthens your connection with your higher self
Even if you’re not religious, it nurtures a spiritual feeling of oneness and trust.
5. Protects You Spiritually and Energetically
“Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva” is a call to the Supreme Protector—Narayan, who sustains the universe. Chanting these names creates a shield of divine energy around you.
- Provides a sense of safety and divine shelter
- Guards against spiritual disturbances or negativity
- Strengthens your energy field (aura)
Many spiritual practitioners use this mantra as a protective chant before sleep or meditation.
6. Enhances Focus, Discipline, and Memory
Chanting mantras engages the brain’s attention systems and balances both hemispheres. This has real cognitive benefits:
- Improves concentration and focus
- Enhances memory retention and learning
- Builds mental discipline through daily repetition
Chanting can act as a mental “reset” that boosts your productivity and mood.
7. Uplifts the Vibration of Your Environment
Sound has the power to shift energy in a space. Chanting this mantra or playing it aloud fills your surroundings with positive vibrations.
- Purifies the energy of your home or workspace
- Creates a serene, meditative atmosphere
- Inspires harmony among those who hear it
Try playing it softly during your morning routine—you’ll feel the difference.
8. Deepens Meditation and Self-Awareness
This mantra can be used as a japa (repetition) mantra during meditation. Its steady rhythm and divine resonance help you:
- Enter deeper states of awareness
- Detach from distractions and inner noise
- Feel more centered, grounded, and present
Many spiritual seekers use it as a “gateway mantra” to enter a meditative state.
9. Aligns You with Divine Qualities
Each name in the mantra—Krishna, Govind, Murari, Narayan, Vasudeva—represents a divine virtue:
| Name | Divine Quality |
|---|---|
| Krishna | Love, joy, charm |
| Govind | Protection, compassion |
| Murari | Strength, fearlessness |
| Nath | Leadership, guidance |
| Narayan | Universality, divinity |
| Vasudeva | Inner presence, consciousness |
By chanting these names, you absorb and embody these virtues in your own life.
10. Builds a Daily Spiritual Habit
Chanting this mantra can be a simple, yet powerful daily spiritual anchor—especially for busy lives.
- No rituals or preparation needed
- Can be done silently, aloud, or with music
- Fits into morning routines, commutes, walks, or even before sleep
Consistency is more powerful than duration—even 3 minutes a day matters.
How to Maximize the Benefits
- Chant 108 times daily using a japa mala
- Listen to it while meditating, walking, or relaxing
- Feel the meaning behind each name as you chant
- Visualize Krishna’s form or light while repeating the mantra
- Keep your intent pure and heart open
“Whether you chant once or a thousand times, your voice may be steady or shaking. Know this: the Lord hears every call. Let this mantra be your light, your breath, your sacred rhythm.”
Scriptural Roots & Relevance
The mantra “Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva” is a beautiful and powerful invocation. It calls upon the various divine forms and names of Lord Vishnu. This is particularly true as embodied in Lord Krishna.
This exact verse may not appear as-is in one single ancient text. Its components are deeply rooted in the Vedas, Puranas, and the Bhagavad Gita. This makes it both scripturally meaningful and spiritually potent.
Let’s explore how each name in the mantra is grounded in scriptural tradition. We will also examine why it remains so relevant to spiritual seekers today.
1. Vedic and Upanishadic Foundations
In the Vedas, the Supreme Reality is often described using various divine names. This is especially true in the Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, and Atharva Veda. It is described in different ways. Each name represents a different cosmic function or aspect of the Divine.
- Narayan is declared in the Mahopanishad and Narayana Sukta as the Supreme Being from whom all creation emerges.
- Vasudeva is mentioned in the Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita as the divine form dwelling within every being.
- Hari (root of “Hare”) is invoked in Vedic hymns as the remover of all suffering and sins.
These names are not poetic additions; they are direct echoes of scriptural truths.
2. Bhagavad Gita: Krishna as the Supreme Being
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna reveals his divine nature and cosmic form. The mantra draws directly from this understanding:
“I am the source of all spiritual and material worlds. Everything emanates from Me.”
(Bhagavad Gita 10.8)
Krishna also says:
“Among the Vrishnis, I am Vasudeva; among sages, I am Vyasa.”
(Bhagavad Gita 10.37)
The inclusion of “Krishna,” “Govind,” and “Vasudeva” in the mantra directly reflects the Gita’s teachings. Krishna is not merely a historical figure. He is the eternal, formless, universal divinity in a loving form.
3. Vishnu Sahasranama: A Thousand Names of the Divine
The Vishnu Sahasranama (Thousand Names of Vishnu), recited widely in Hindu homes and temples, contains almost all the names present in this mantra:
- Krishna (Name 57) – the all-attractive one
- Govinda (Name 187) – protector of cows and Earth
- Murari (Name 508) – slayer of the demon Mura
- Narayana (Name 245) – the Supreme Refuge
- Vasudeva (Name 4) – one who resides in all things
These names are not randomly chosen; they are carefully revered divine attributes praised across centuries of sacred literature.
4. Puranic References: The Stories Behind the Names
The Puranas, especially the Bhagavata Purana (Srimad Bhagavatam) and Vishnu Purana, provide rich narratives that bring these names to life:
- Murari – Krishna’s heroic battle with the demon Mura is described in texts like the Harivamsa Purana. This battle symbolizes the Lord’s power to destroy inner and outer enemies.
- Govinda – Krishna earned this name after lifting Govardhan Hill. He protected the people of Vrindavan, showing his love for his devotees and nature.
- Vasudeva – Highlights Krishna’s birth to Vasudeva and Devaki. More importantly, it refers to his cosmic role as the soul of the universe.
These names tell stories, and the stories teach truths—about love, dharma, courage, and surrender.
5. Influence of Bhakti Saints and Traditions
The mantra is also beloved in Bhakti traditions across India—especially among:
- Vaishnavas (worshippers of Vishnu and Krishna)
- Followers of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who emphasized chanting the names of God (Nama Sankirtan)
- Saints like Mirabai, Surdas, and Tukaram, who saw Krishna as a personal God and beloved friend
They taught that chanting Krishna’s names—even without scholarly knowledge—could awaken divine love (prema bhakti) and lead to liberation.
This mantra has sweet names and a lyrical rhythm. It is a perfect example of a bhakti mantra. It is simple enough for anyone to chant. Yet, it is deep enough to transform the heart.
6. Modern Spiritual Relevance
In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, ancient mantras like this provide:
- Grounding and calm amid mental chaos
- A soulful pause from material distraction
- A direct line of connection to something eternal and compassionate
The mantra doesn’t require ritualistic perfection or scholarly understanding—just devotion, sincerity, and repetition.
A Mantra Rooted in Eternal Truth
“Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva” may not come from one single verse of scripture. However, its names are deeply embedded in the sacred texts. They are part of the philosophies and devotional traditions of Hinduism.
It unites the essence of:
- Vedic wisdom
- Bhagavad Gita’s divine message
- Puranic storytelling
- Bhakti poetry and music
Every name is a portal to the Divine.
Every chant is a return to your true self.
A Personal Connection to the Mantra
Many devotees share experiences of chanting this mantra during times of anxiety or loss. It brings them a sense of being held. It feels as if Krishna Himself is listening. It becomes more than just words—it becomes a lifeline to divine comfort.
You may find yourself naturally drawn to chant this mantra during early mornings. It can also be appealing in the evenings, especially when seeking peace or answers.
References & Further Reading
- Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Lyrics & PDF | Vrindavan Rasamrit.
Provides the full lyrics of the bhajan, including verses that praise Lord Krishna’s divine attributes and recount his miraculous deeds. - Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Lyrics: Meaning, Prayer, And Devotion | LearnTheFlow.
Explores the deeper meanings behind the names Krishna, Govind, and Murari, highlighting their significance in the bhajan. - Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Lyrics: Meaning, Prayer, And Devotion | LearnTheFlow.
Discusses the devotional aspects of the bhajan, emphasizing its role in fostering a connection with the divine through chanting. - Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Lyrics: Meaning, Prayer, And Devotion | LearnTheFlow.
Highlights the cultural and spiritual impact of the bhajan, noting its popularity in devotional practices and festivals.
Conclusion: A Mantra for Every Soul
“When you chant with love, every word becomes a prayer,
every breath becomes divine, and every moment becomes grace.”
“Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva” is more than sacred sound. It’s a spiritual companion. It serves as a healing vibration and a reminder that divine grace is always within reach.
You may be facing a personal challenge. You might be seeking inner peace. You could simply be yearning for a deeper connection with the divine. In any of these cases, this mantra meets you where you are. It offers love, power, and protection.
It brings together:
- The compassion of Govind,
- The strength of Murari,
- The presence of Vasudeva,
- And the infinite refuge of Narayan.
You don’t need to be a scholar or a saint. You don’t need the perfect voice or setting. You just need a sincere heart—and a few moments to chant, listen, or reflect.
Let this mantra become your daily prayer, your inner anchor, and your bridge to joy, clarity, and divine connection.
Because no matter who you are or where you come from—this is a mantra for every soul.
