The mantra “Vakratunda Maha-Kaaya Surya-Kotti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvadaa” is a powerful invocation to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity in Hinduism. The mantra doesn’t directly come from a specific scripture but is inspired by Lord Ganesha’s general worship and praise in Hindu Sanatan Dharma. However, Ganesha’s stories and attributes are found in various scriptures like the Puranas, particularly the Ganapati Atharvashirsha Upanishad, which extols the greatness of Lord Ganesha.
“वक्रतुण्ड महाकाय सूर्यकोटि समप्रभ |
निर्विघ्नं कुरु मे देव सर्वकार्येषु सर्वदा ||”
Vakratunda Maha-Kaaya Surya-Kotti Samaprabha
Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvadaa ||”
This mantra is a heartfelt plea to Lord Ganesha, recognizing his divine form and brilliance and seeking his assistance in overcoming obstacles and ensuring success in all aspects of life. It reflects the devotee’s trust and devotion to Ganesha as the remover of impediments.
English Translation
| Sanskrit Phrase | English Meaning |
| Vakratunda | “Curved trunk” – refers to the unique, elephant-like appearance of Lord Ganesha. |
| Maha-Kaaya | “Massive body” – signifies the huge form or presence of Lord Ganesha. |
| Surya-Kotti Samaprabha | “Splendor equal to a billion suns” – emphasizes the divine and radiant aura of Lord Ganesha, which is said to be as luminous and powerful as a billion suns. |
| Nirvighnam | “Without obstacles” – an appeal to the deity to remove or prevent any hindrances or obstacles. |
| Kuru Me Deva | “Do for me, O Lord” – a plea to the deity to perform the act of removing obstacles. |
| Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvadaa | “In all my endeavors, always” – requesting the continuous guidance and assistance of the deity in all aspects of life. |
Meaning with Explanation
Vakratunda Maha-Kaaya: This part describes Lord Ganesha’s physical attributes. Among Hindu Devotees, Ganesha is easily recognizable by his elephant-like head and large, powerful body.
Surya-Kotti Samaprabha: This line emphasizes Lord Ganesha’s divine brilliance and radiance. It’s a way of expressing the immense and unparalleled aura surrounding the deity.
Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva: The devotee earnestly requests Lord Ganesha to eliminate any hindrances or difficulties in their path. Ganesha is widely known as the remover of obstacles.
Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvadaa: The devotee seeks Ganesha’s continuous blessings and assistance in every aspect of life and all endeavors. It’s a prayer for guidance and support in all activities.