Complete Guide to Shri Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman
Introduction to Shri Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman
"Shri Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman" is one of the most revered and spiritually powerful hymns dedicated to Lord Rama, composed by the great saint-poet Goswami Tulsidas. This masterpiece of devotional literature captures the essence of Lord Rama's divine nature, his compassionate character, and his role as the ideal king, son, and avatar of Lord Vishnu.
This sacred hymn, also known as "Ram Stuti," beautifully describes Lord Rama's physical beauty, divine qualities, and spiritual significance. Written in melodious Sanskrit and Hindi verses, it serves as both a prayer for protection from worldly fears and a meditation on the supreme divine qualities embodied by Maryada Purushottam Rama.
Tulsidas composed this hymn as part of his profound devotion to Lord Rama, recognizing him as the supreme deity who can liberate devotees from the cycle of birth and death. The composition reflects the poet's deep understanding of Vedantic philosophy combined with heartfelt devotion, making it accessible to both scholars and simple devotees seeking divine grace.
This comprehensive guide will explore the deeper meanings, spiritual practices, and transformative benefits of this beloved hymn, helping you establish a profound connection with Lord Rama and experience his divine blessings of peace, protection, and spiritual awakening.
Spiritual Significance of Rama Worship
Lord Rama: The Ideal Avatar
Lord Rama represents the perfect embodiment of dharma (righteousness) in human form. As the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, Rama descended to earth to establish the victory of good over evil and to show humanity the path of righteous living. His life serves as the eternal blueprint for ideal conduct in all relationships - as a son, brother, husband, king, and friend.
Maryada Purushottam - The Ideal Man
Rama is revered as "Maryada Purushottam" - the supreme person who never transgresses the boundaries of dharma. This hymn celebrates this aspect, showing how divine consciousness can manifest in human form while maintaining perfect adherence to moral and ethical principles. His life demonstrates that spiritual greatness comes through self-discipline and unwavering commitment to truth.
The Philosophy of Ram Rajya
The concept of Ram Rajya (Rama's kingdom) represents the ideal state of governance and social harmony. Through Rama worship, devotees aspire to create this divine kingdom within their hearts and communities - a state where justice, compassion, and dharma prevail. This hymn invokes Rama's blessings to establish such harmony in the devotee's life.
Rama as the Destroyer of Ego
The hymn specifically mentions Rama's victory over demons like Khara and Dushana, symbolizing the conquest of inner demons like pride, anger, and ignorance. Rama's divine presence in the heart helps devotees overcome these spiritual obstacles and progress toward self-realization and divine consciousness.
The Power of Rama Nama
Tulsidas emphasizes the transformative power of chanting Rama's name and meditating on his divine form. The repetition of "Rama" is considered one of the most powerful mantras, capable of purifying the mind, protecting from negative influences, and ultimately leading to moksha (liberation) from the cycle of reincarnation.
Shri Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman Lyrics
श्री रामचन्द्र कृपालु भजु मन हरण भवभय दारुणं।
नवकंज लोचन, कंज मुख, कर कंज, पद कंजारुणं॥
कन्दर्प अगणित अमित छवि, नवनील नीरज सुन्दरं।
पट पीत मानहु तड़ित रुचि शुचि नौमि जनक सुतावरं॥
भजु दीनबन्धु दिनेश दानव दैत्यवंश निकन्दनं।
रघुनन्द आनन्दकन्द कोशलचन्द दशरथ नन्दनं॥
सिर मुकुट कुण्डल तिलक चारु उदारु अंग विभूषणं।
आजानुभुज शर चाप धर, संग्राम जित खरदूषणं॥
इति वदति तुलसीदास शंकर-शेष-मुनि-मन-रंजनं।
मम हृदय-कंज निवास कुरु, कामादि खलदल-गंजनं॥
मन जाहि राचेऊ मिलहि सो वर सहज सुन्दर सांवरो।
करुणा निधान सुजान शील सनेह जानत रावरो॥
एहि भांति गौरी असीस सुन सिय हित हिय हरषित अली।
तुलसी भवानिहि पूजी पुनि-पुनि मुदित मन मन्दिर चली॥
Shri Ramachandra kripalu bhajuman, harana bhavabhaya darunam।
Navakanja-lochana, kanjamukha, kara-kanja pada-kanjarunam॥
Kandarpa aganita amita chhavi, navanila-niraja sundaram।
Pata pita manahu tadita ruchi shuchi, naumi Janaka sutavaram॥
Bhaju dinabandhu Dinesha danava-daityavansha-nikandanam।
Raghunanda anandakanda Koshalachanda Dasharatha-nandanam॥
Sira mukuta kundala tilaka charu, udaru anga vibhushanam।
Ajanubhuja shara-chapa-dhara, sangrama-jita-Khara Dushanam॥
Iti vadati Tulasidasa Shankara-Shesha-muni-mana-ranjanam।
Mama hridaya-kanja nivasa kuru, kamadi khaladala-ganjanam॥
Man Jahi Raacheu Milahi So Var Sahaj Sundar Sanvaro।
Karuna Nidhaan Sujaan Sheel Saneh Janat Ravro॥
Aehi Bhanti Gauri Asis Sun Siy Hit Hiy Hiy Harshit Ali।
Tulsi Bhavanihi Poojee Puni Puni Mudit Man Mandir Chali॥
Detailed Meaning and Translation
Opening Invocation
"श्री रामचन्द्र कृपालु भजु मन हरण भवभय दारुणं।
नवकंज लोचन, कंज मुख, कर कंज, पद कंजारुणं॥"
Translation: "O mind, worship the compassionate Shri Ramchandra, who destroys the terrible fears of worldly existence. He has lotus-like eyes, lotus-like face, lotus-like hands, and reddish lotus-like feet."
Meaning: This opening verse establishes the central theme - surrendering the mind to Lord Rama's compassionate nature. The lotus imagery symbolizes purity, beauty, and spiritual awakening. Just as a lotus remains untainted despite growing in muddy water, Rama maintains divine purity while living in the material world.
Divine Beauty Description
"कन्दर्प अगणित अमित छवि, नवनील नीरज सुन्दरं।
पट पीत मानहु तड़ित रुचि शुचि नौमि जनक सुतावरं॥"
Translation: "His beauty surpasses countless cupids, radiant like a fresh blue lotus. His yellow garments shine like lightning, pure and brilliant. I bow to the noble husband of Janaka's daughter (Sita)."
Meaning: This verse describes Rama's incomparable divine beauty that transcends all earthly attractiveness. The blue lotus represents spiritual consciousness, while the yellow garments symbolize knowledge and purity. His relationship with Sita represents the perfect union of divine consciousness with divine energy.
Divine Protector and Beloved
"भजु दीनबन्धु दिनेश दानव दैत्यवंश निकन्दनं।
रघुनन्द आनन्दकन्द कोशलचन्द दशरथ नन्दनं॥"
Translation: "Worship the friend of the helpless, the sun among men, destroyer of demon dynasties. He is the joy of the Raghu dynasty, the source of bliss, the moon of Koshala, and the beloved son of Dasharatha."
Meaning: This verse emphasizes Rama's role as protector of the oppressed and destroyer of evil forces. His various epithets show his relationships - as the noble prince of Ayodhya, the source of happiness for his dynasty, and the beloved son who upholds family honor and dharma.
Royal Appearance and Warrior Prowess
"सिर मुकुट कुण्डल तिलक चारु उदारु अंग विभूषणं।
आजानुभुज शर चाप धर, संग्राम जित खरदूषणं॥"
Translation: "His head adorned with a crown, earrings, and tilaka, beautiful ornaments decorating his gracious limbs. With arms reaching his knees, holding bow and arrows, victorious in battle over Khara and Dushana."
Meaning: This verse depicts Rama's royal dignity and warrior strength. The ornaments represent his divine status, while his long arms symbolize his ability to protect devotees. His victory over demons Khara and Dushana represents the triumph of dharma over adharma and the power to overcome internal enemies like anger and hatred.
Tulsidas' Prayer for Divine Residence
"इति वदति तुलसीदास शंकर-शेष-मुनि-मन-रंजनं।
मम हृदय-कंज निवास कुरु, कामादि खलदल-गंजनं॥"
Translation: "Thus speaks Tulsidas - O Lord who delights the minds of Shankara, Shesha, and the sages, please reside in the lotus of my heart and destroy the wicked hosts of lust and other evils."
Meaning: In this concluding verse, Tulsidas humbly requests Lord Rama to dwell in his heart and purify it of all negative tendencies. The reference to Shankara (Shiva) and Shesha (the cosmic serpent) shows that even great gods and cosmic beings worship Rama, emphasizing his supreme divine status.
Parvati's Blessing - The Ideal Husband
"मन जाहि राचेऊ मिलहि सो वर सहज सुन्दर सांवरो।
करुणा निधान सुजान शील सनेह जानत रावरो॥"
Translation: "May you obtain that husband in whom your heart delights - naturally beautiful and dark-complexioned, treasure of compassion, wise, virtuous, and knowing the nature of love."
Meaning: This verse is from the famous episode where young Sita worships Goddess Parvati (Gauri) to obtain an ideal husband. Parvati blesses her with these exact qualities, which perfectly describe Lord Rama. "Sahaj sundar sanvaro" (naturally beautiful and dark) refers to Rama's divine form. "Karuna nidhaan" (treasure of compassion) shows his merciful nature. "Sujaan" (wise) indicates his perfect knowledge and judgment. "Sheel" (virtuous character) represents his adherence to dharma. "Saneh janat" (knowing love) shows his understanding and caring nature. This verse beautifully encapsulates the ideal qualities of a divine partner and life companion.
Sita's Joy at Gauri's Blessing
"एहि भांति गौरी असीस सुन सिय हित हिय हरषित अली।
तुलसी भवानिहि पूजी पुनि-पुनि मुदित मन मन्दिर चली॥"
Translation: "Hearing Gauri's blessing in this manner, Sita's heart rejoiced with her friends. Says Tulsi, after worshipping Bhavani (Parvati) again and again with a delighted mind, she returned to the palace."
Meaning: This concluding verse describes the joyful conclusion of Sita's worship of Goddess Parvati. "Hiy harshit" (heart rejoiced) shows the pure happiness and satisfaction Sita felt receiving this divine blessing. "Puni-puni" (again and again) indicates the depth of her gratitude and devotion - she repeatedly bows to the goddess in thanksgiving. "Mudit man" (delighted mind) represents the complete inner fulfillment and peace that comes from divine grace. The verse teaches that sincere worship and devotion lead to the fulfillment of righteous desires. Sita's example shows how to approach the divine with pure intention, and how divine blessings bring true joy to the heart. This completes the beautiful narrative arc of the prayer, showing how devotion, blessing, and fulfillment form a complete cycle of divine grace.
Spiritual Benefits of Reciting Rama Stuti
Protection and Peace
- Divine Protection: Shields from negative influences, evil forces, and spiritual obstacles
- Mental Peace: Calms anxiety, fear, and mental agitation through Rama's protective grace
- Emotional Stability: Provides inner strength to face life's challenges with equanimity
- Karmic Purification: Helps resolve negative karma and past life impressions
Spiritual Development and Devotion
- Bhakti Enhancement: Deepens devotional feelings and love for the divine
- Dharmic Living: Inspires righteous conduct and ethical behavior in daily life
- Self-Purification: Cleanses the heart of lust, anger, greed, and other negative qualities
- Divine Grace: Attracts Rama's blessings for spiritual progress and self-realization
Character Development and Wisdom
- Noble Qualities: Cultivates virtues like compassion, courage, humility, and truthfulness
- Leadership Skills: Develops dharmic leadership qualities inspired by Ram Rajya ideals
- Relationship Harmony: Improves relationships through Rama's example of ideal conduct
- Wisdom Development: Enhances discrimination between right and wrong, dharma and adharma
Liberation and Ultimate Goal
- Moksha Path: Guides toward liberation from the cycle of birth and death
- God Realization: Facilitates direct experience of divine consciousness
- Surrender Development: Cultivates complete surrender and trust in divine will
- Eternal Bliss: Leads to the experience of eternal joy and divine love
How to Perform Rama Worship: Complete Guide
Preparation for Rama Worship
- Personal Purification: Take a bath and wear clean, preferably white, yellow, or red clothes
- Sacred Space Setup: Place Rama's image or idol in a clean altar facing east or north
- Essential Items: Arrange ghee lamp, incense, flowers, fruits, and sacred items
- Mental Preparation: Cultivate feelings of devotion, surrender, and reverence for Lord Rama
Step-by-Step Ritual Process
- Invocation: Begin with "Om Shri Ramaya Namaha" or "Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram"
- Altar Preparation: Clean the worship area and place fresh flowers and decorations
- Offerings: Present flowers, fruits, sweets, and light the lamp with devotion
- Hymn Recitation: Chant "Shri Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman" with proper pronunciation
- Meditation: Meditate on Rama's divine form and qualities described in the hymn
- Prayer: Offer personal prayers for protection, guidance, and spiritual growth
- Aarti: Perform aarti by moving the lamp in circular motions while singing
- Prasadam: Distribute blessed food among family and community members
Special Rama Worship Guidelines
- Maintain celibacy and pure thoughts during worship periods
- Include Tulsi leaves in offerings, as they are especially dear to Lord Rama
- Recite with proper Sanskrit pronunciation for maximum spiritual benefit
- Practice daily recitation, preferably at the same time each day
Best Times and Occasions for Rama Worship
Daily Practice Schedule
Morning (Brahma Muhurta): Between 4:00-6:00 AM is considered the most auspicious time for Rama meditation and recitation, when the mind is pure and receptive to divine grace.
Evening (Sunset): Between 6:00-8:00 PM during sunset, creating a peaceful atmosphere for concluding the day with divine remembrance.
Weekly Practice
Sunday: Especially auspicious for Rama worship, as it is governed by the Sun, and Rama is considered the embodiment of solar energy and consciousness.
Tuesday: Powerful for protection prayers and overcoming obstacles, invoking Rama's warrior aspect.
Special Rama Festivals and Occasions
- Ram Navami: Rama's birthday, the most important day for elaborate Rama worship
- Dussehra: Celebrating Rama's victory over Ravana, victory of good over evil
- Diwali: Rama's return to Ayodhya, symbolizing the return of light and righteousness
- Vivah Panchami: Rama-Sita wedding anniversary, celebrating divine union
- Rama Ekadashi: Special fasting day dedicated to Lord Rama
- Purnima (Full Moon): Particularly powerful for Rama meditation and spiritual practices
Special Circumstances for Rama Worship
- During times of fear, danger, or uncertainty for divine protection
- Before important decisions requiring wisdom and guidance
- During periods of spiritual dryness to rekindle devotion
- When facing moral dilemmas requiring dharmic clarity
Traditional Offerings for Lord Rama
Essential Offerings
- Tulsi Leaves: Most sacred to Rama, representing devotion and purity
- Yellow Flowers: Marigolds, jasmine, and champa flowers in worship colors
- White Flowers: Lotus, lily, and other pure white blooms symbolizing purity
- Durva Grass: Representing prosperity and auspiciousness
Food Offerings (Prasadam)
- Panchamrit: Sacred mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and sugar
- Kheer: Sweet rice pudding prepared with milk and nuts
- Fruits: Bananas, apples, pomegranates, and seasonal fruits
- Mishri (Rock Sugar): Pure white sugar crystals representing sweetness
- Coconut: Whole coconut representing completeness and surrender
- Chana (Chickpeas): Simple, pure food beloved by Hanuman and offered to Rama
Special Ritualistic Items
- Sandalwood paste for tilaka and fragrance
- Sacred thread (janeu) and yellow cloth
- Camphor for purification and aarti
- Holy water (Ganga jal) for abhisheka
Symbolic Offerings
- Bow and arrow miniatures representing Rama's divine weapons
- Crown or mukut symbolizing his royal status
- Yellow silk cloth representing royal garments
- Oil lamps maintained continuously for divine presence
Historical Background and Cultural Context
Goswami Tulsidas: The Composer
Goswami Tulsidas (1532-1623 CE) was one of the greatest poets and saints in Hindu literature, renowned for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. Born in the Raigapur village of Uttar Pradesh, Tulsidas dedicated his entire life to Rama worship and created immortal works like the Ramcharitmanas and Hanuman Chalisa. This particular hymn reflects his profound realization of Rama's divine nature and his mastery of Sanskrit poetic expression.
Literary Excellence and Spiritual Depth
"Shri Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman" represents the pinnacle of devotional Sanskrit poetry, combining complex meters with profound theological insights. Tulsidas skillfully weaves together Vedantic philosophy, Puranic references, and heartfelt devotion, creating a composition that satisfies both intellectual seekers and simple devotees seeking divine grace.
Ramayana Tradition and Cultural Impact
This hymn is deeply rooted in the Ramayana tradition, particularly drawing from Valmiki's original epic and later regional versions. Tulsidas' composition has profoundly influenced North Indian spirituality and culture, becoming an integral part of religious ceremonies, festivals, and daily worship practices across Hindi-speaking regions.
Theological Significance
The hymn establishes Rama as both the supreme Brahman (ultimate reality) and the accessible divine personality. This theological balance made Rama worship appealing to both Advaita (non-dualist) and Bhakti (devotional) traditions, contributing to the widespread acceptance of Rama as a major deity in Hindu pantheon.
Musical and Artistic Heritage
Over the centuries, this composition has been set to various ragas and musical forms, inspiring countless classical and folk renditions. From temple singers to contemporary artists, the hymn continues to be performed in diverse musical styles, ensuring its relevance across different cultural contexts and generational preferences.
Contemporary Relevance and Global Reach
In modern times, this hymn has gained global recognition through the Indian diaspora and spiritual seekers worldwide. Its message of righteous living, compassionate leadership, and divine protection resonates with contemporary challenges, making Rama worship relevant for addressing modern psychological and spiritual needs.
Influence on Indian Politics and Society
The ideals expressed in this hymn, particularly the concept of Ram Rajya (ideal governance), have significantly influenced Indian political thought and social reform movements. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi frequently referenced Rama's example of just rule and moral leadership, connecting ancient spiritual ideals with modern democratic values.