Shri Krishnashtakam (Bhaje Vrajaika Mandanam)

Opening verses of the Shri Krishnashtakam attributed to Adi Shankaracharya — praise of Nanda's son, the one ornament of Vraja.

This ashtakam is much loved for its rhythmic metre, and tradition attributes it to Adi Shankaracharya. The first three verses are given here.

Verse 1: I always worship the son of Nanda, the one ornament of Vraja, destroyer of all sins, who delights the hearts of His devotees. On His head is a lovely cluster of peacock feathers, in His hand the sweet-sounding flute; He is an ocean of loving joy. I bow to that charming Krishna.

Verse 2: I bow to the lotus-eyed one who humbles the pride of Kamadeva, whose eyes are large and restless, who removed the sorrow of the cowherds. I bow to Krishna who held up the mountain on His lotus hand, whose smiling glance is beautiful, who broke the pride of Indra.

Verse 3: I bow to Krishna, so rarely attained, who wears kadamba flowers as earrings, whose cheeks are lovely, the only beloved of the women of Vraja. I bow to the leader of the cowherds, who is with joyful Yashoda, the gopas and Nanda, and who is the one giver of happiness.

Author

Attributed to Adi Shankaracharya

Note

First three of the eight verses.