Nirvana Shatkam is a set of six Sanskrit verses composed by Adi Shankaracharya that describe the nature of the Self as pure consciousness, beyond the mind, body, and ego. In a world full of noise, stress, and constant mental chatter, the ancient verses of Nirvana Shatkam offer a powerful invitation: to remember who you truly are beyond the mind, body, and ego. These six timeless verses aren’t just poetry — they are a declaration of freedom from suffering and a direct path to inner peace.
Whether you’re a seeker, a meditator, or someone simply curious about Vedantic wisdom, understanding and chanting Nirvana Shatkam can shift your awareness from chaos to clarity. This article gently guides you through its meaning, benefits, and the correct way to chant it — not just with the tongue, but from the depth of your inner being.
Nirvana Shatkam
This article explores the heart of Nirvana Shatkam, delving into its meanings of the six verses, understanding its significance, historical roots, and unraveling its myriad benefits and blessings. It bestows upon those who tread the path of self-discovery, and self-realization.
Chanting Nirvana Shatkam is a personal and contemplative practice. Adjust the frequency and duration based on your schedule and comfort. Whether daily or occasional, chanting and meditating on Nirvana Shatkam can be a transformative tool on your journey towards self-realization and unity with the divine.
The verses of Nirvana Shatkam serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward profound spiritual awakening and a deeper connection with timeless truths embedded in the fabric of human consciousness. The declaration “Shivoham” in Nirvana Shatkam aligns with the essence of identifying oneself with the supreme consciousness embodied by Lord Shiva.
Nirvana Shatakam Meaning
Nirvana means “liberation” or “freedom” from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). It is a state of ultimate peace, enlightenment, and unity with the Supreme Consciousness.
Shatkam means “six” (from Sanskrit “Shat” meaning six). It refers to a group of six verses or stanzas.
So, “Nirvana Shatkam” translates to “The Six Verses of Liberation”, where each verse describes the realization of the true self beyond ego, mind, and body.
At the personal, inner level, Nirvana Shatkam emphasizes the essential nature of the Atman (individual soul), urging the practitioner again and again to recognize their true identity as pure consciousness, beyond the mind, ego, and body.
Nirvana means liberation from the cycle of samsara (birth, death, and rebirth). The chant symbolizes breaking free from mental attachments, desires, and the illusion of separateness, allowing one to experience inner peace and self-realization.
Cosmic meaning of the mantra: Just as an individual realizes their freedom from the limitations of ego, in a cosmic sense, the whole universe is also bound to the cycle of birth and rebirth until it achieves liberation (moksha). The chant echoes the vision that cosmic freedom is possible when the individual realizes their oneness with the infinite, thus contributing to the collective liberation of all.
What is Nirvana Shatkam?
“Nirvana Shatkam,” meaning the six verses of liberation, was composed by Adi Shankaracharya, the great Indian philosopher and teacher of Advaita Vedanta. The verses point to the Atman as eternal, changeless, and pure. The more one contemplates these verses, the closer one comes to the realization that they are not the “doer” or the “experiencer,” but the witness consciousness that pervades all existence.
Nirvana Shatkam, also known as Atma Shatkam, the Shivoham mantra, or Mano Buddhi Ahankara ChittaNi Naham mantra, comprises six powerful verses that serve as a guiding light for seekers on the path of self-realization. In these verses, Adi Shankaracharya eloquently dissects the layers of human identity and reveals the eternal truth of one’s divine essence.
It is traditionally associated with Shankara’s teachings and is often recited as part of the Advaita tradition, but it does not come from a larger scripture like the Vedas or Upanishads.
Each verse begins with negation like—“I am not the mind, intellect, ego, or memory”—and culminates in the affirmation: “Chidananda Rupa Shivoham Shivoham”
(I am pure consciousness and bliss. I am Shiva. I am Shiva.)
Why is Nirvana Shatkam So Important?
The significance of Nirvana Shatkam lies in its ability to lead individuals towards self-awareness and spiritual awakening. The verses guide the seeker to recognize the impermanent nature of worldly identities and attachments, ultimately pointing towards the realization of the eternal, unchanging self. By emphasizing the negation of various aspects of the ego and affirming the true nature as pure consciousness and bliss (Shiva), the Nirvana Shatkam serves as a powerful tool for transcending the illusions of the material world.
Benefits and Blessings:
- Self-Realization: Chanting the Nirvana Shatkam helps in cultivating self-awareness and realizing the true nature of the self beyond the transient aspects of the ego.
- Emotional Equanimity: The verses guide practitioners towards detachment from dualities, fostering emotional balance and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
- Spiritual Transformation: Regular recitation of the Nirvana Shatkam can lead to a profound spiritual transformation, helping individuals move beyond superficial identifications and recognize their oneness with the divine.
- Clarity of Thought: The philosophical depth of the verses enhances mental clarity, providing insights into the nature of reality and the purpose of life.
- Freedom from Attachments: The negation of various aspects of identity in the verses encourages liberation from attachments, paving the way for a more liberated and fulfilling life.
- Inner Peace: The contemplative nature of the Nirvana Shatkam fosters inner peace, allowing practitioners to experience a sense of tranquility amidst life’s ups and downs.
- Connection with the Divine: By affirming the essence as pure consciousness and bliss (Shiva), the practitioner establishes a profound connection with the divine, fostering a sense of spiritual fulfillment.
When to Chant Nirvana Shatkam:
- Morning Rituals: Consider chanting Nirvana Shatkam during your morning rituals. The serene atmosphere and the fresh start of the day can enhance the impact of these sacred verses.
- Evening Contemplation: Chanting Nirvana Shatkam in the evening can serve as a reflective practice, helping you unwind from the day’s activities and fostering a sense of inner peace.
- Meditation Sessions: Integrate Nirvana Shatkam into your meditation sessions. The rhythmic chanting can act as a powerful mantra, aiding in focusing the mind and deepening your meditative experience.
- Special Occasions: Choose significant occasions such as festivals, birthdays, or personal milestones to chant Nirvana Shatkam. It can add a spiritual dimension to these moments, fostering a deeper connection with your inner self.
The 114 Chakras Healing and Balancing
The Six Verses: The Guiding Lights
These six verses serve as a guiding light on your path towards self-illumination and realizing the eternal truth of Brahman.
Verse 1: Transcending the Limits of Mind and Ego
मनो बुद्धिअहंकार चित्तानि नाहं न च श्रोत्रजिह्वे न च घ्राणनेत्रे ।
न च व्योम भूमिर्न तेजो न वायुः चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥१॥
manobuddhi ahaṅkāra cittāni nāhaṃ na ca śrotrajihve na ca ghrāṇanetre ।
na ca vyoma bhūmirna tejo na vāyuḥ cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥1॥
Explanation:
In this verse, release yourself from the mental and sensory aspects, disidentifying with the mind, intellect, ego, and memory. Let go of attachment to the senses of hearing, taste, smell, and sight, as well as the elements of ether, earth, fire, water, and air. Affirm your essence as pure consciousness and bliss, declaring, “You are Shiva.”
Verse 2: Transcending the Limits of Vital Functions
न च प्राणसंज्ञो न वै पञ्चवायुः न वा सप्तधातुः न वा पञ्चकोशः ।
न वाक्पाणिपादं न चोपस्थपायु चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥२॥
na ca prāṇasaṃjño na vai pañcavāyuḥ na vā saptadhātuḥ na vā pañcakośaḥ ।
na vākpāṇipādaṃ na copasthapāyu cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥2॥
Explanation:
In this verse, detach yourself from the life force, the five vital airs, the seven elements of the body, and the five sheaths covering your true self. Let go of attachment to the organs of speech, hands, feet, and the lower region. Reiterate your essential nature as pure consciousness and bliss, proclaiming, “You are Shiva.”
Verse 3: Equanimity Beyond Your Dualities
न मे द्वेषरागौ न मे लोभमोहौ मदो नैव मे नैव मात्सर्यभावः ।
न धर्मो न चार्थो न कामो न मोक्षः चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥३॥
na me dveṣarāgau na me lobhamohau mado naiva me naiva mātsaryabhāvaḥ ।
na dharmo na cārtho na kāmo na mokṣaḥ cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥3॥
Explanation:
In this verse, embrace a state of equanimity, free from aversion, attachment, greed, and delusion. Let go of pride and jealousy. Disclaim attachment to righteousness, worldly goals, desires, and even liberation. Your essence remains pure consciousness and bliss, echoing, “You are Shiva.”
Online 72000 Nadis Course
Verse 4: Beyond Your Rituals and Desires
न पुण्यं न पापं न सौख्यं न दुःखं न मन्त्रो न तीर्थं न वेदा न यज्ञाः ।
अहं भोजनं नैव भोज्यं न भोक्ता चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥४॥
na puṇyaṃ na pāpaṃ na saukhyaṃ na duḥkhaṃ na mantro na tīrthaṃ na vedā na yajñāḥ ।
ahaṃ bhojanaṃ naiva bhojyaṃ na bhoktā cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥4॥
Explanation:
In this verse, relinquish the notions of virtue, sin, happiness, and sorrow. Let go of the significance of mantras, pilgrimage places, scriptures, and rituals. Neither the act of eating, the food, nor the eater holds relevance. The affirmed reality is pure consciousness and bliss, affirming, “You are Shiva.”
Verse 5: Transcending Your Birth and Death
न मृत्युर्न शङ्का न मे जातिभेदः पिता नैव मे नैव माता न जन्मः ।
न बन्धुर्न मित्रं गुरुर्नैव शिष्यं चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥५॥
“na mṛtyurna śaṅkā na me jātibhedaḥ pitā naiva me naiva mātā na janmaḥ ।
na bandhurna mitraṃ gururnaiva śiṣyaṃ cidānandarūpaḥ śivo’ham śivo’ham” ॥5॥
Explanation:
In this verse, transcend the fear of death and the distinctions of birth. Disclaim having a father, mother, or birth. Release attachment to relatives, friends, teacher, and disciple. Your affirmed reality is pure consciousness and bliss, echoing, “You are Shiva.”
Verse 6: The Formless and Omnipresent Self
अहं निर्विकल्पो निराकाररूपो विभुत्वाच्च सर्वत्र सर्वेन्द्रियाणाम् ।
न चासङ्गतं नैव मुक्तिर्न मेयः चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥६॥
ahaṃ nirvikalpo nirākārarūpo vibhutvācca sarvatra sarvendriyāṇām ।
na cāsaṅgataṃ naiva muktirna meyaḥ cidānandarūpaḥ śivo’ham śivo’ham ॥6॥
Explanation:
In this concluding verse, recognize your formless and attributeless nature. Realize your all-pervading presence within all senses. Embrace eternal equanimity, transcending both liberation and bondage. Affirm your reality as pure consciousness and bliss, declaring, “You are Shiva.”
Sri Vidya Sadhana Advanced Course
How to Chant Nirvana Shatkam Correctly
Chanting Nirvana Shatkam is not merely a vocal exercise — it’s a meditative act of self-realization. To truly receive its transformative power, approach the chant with mindfulness, humility, and intention.
✅ 1. Create a Sacred Space
Find a quiet, clean space where you won’t be disturbed. You may light a candle or incense to mark the transition from outer activity to inner stillness.
✅ 2. Sit Comfortably and Center Yourself
Sit in a relaxed posture with your spine erect — either cross-legged on the floor or on a chair. Take a few deep breaths and bring your awareness inward.
✅ 3. Start with Intention (Sankalpa)
Before chanting, silently set an intention — such as “May I realize my true nature” or “Let this chant guide me beyond ego.”
✅ 4. Chant Slowly and Mindfully
Pronounce each Sanskrit word clearly. Don’t rush. Allow the vibration of each verse to settle into your body and mind.
Example from the first verse:
Mano Buddhi Ahankara Chittani Naham
(I am not the mind, intellect, ego, or memory)
Pause after each line. Let it echo within you. This is not about performance — it’s about presence.
✅ 5. Use a Reliable Audio or Teacher
If you’re new to Sanskrit, it helps to learn the correct pronunciation through a traditional teacher or a trusted recording. Chanting with proper intonation enhances its spiritual impact.
✅ 6. Repeat It Daily
Consistency deepens the experience. Even if you chant just one verse a day with full awareness, the effects accumulate over time.
✅ 7. Chant With Bhava (Feeling)
It’s not enough to say the words — feel them. Chant as if you are shedding every label and identity, returning to the truth of your Being.
History of Nirvana Shatkam:
Adi Shankaracharya, an eminent Indian philosopher and theologian from the early medieval period, is credited with composing the Nirvana Shatkam. Born in the 8th century CE, Shankaracharya is renowned for reviving the Advaita Vedanta school of thought, emphasizing the non-dual nature of reality.
During his brief yet impactful life, he traveled across India, engaging in philosophical debates and composing numerous texts that continue to influence spiritual seekers to this day. The Nirvana Shatkam stands as a testament to his deep insights into the nature of the self and the quest for ultimate truth.
Sri Rudram Meditation
The Science Behind Nirvana Shatkam
While Nirvana Shatkam is rooted in Advaita Vedanta, its transformative power also resonates with discoveries in modern neuroscience, psychology, and consciousness studies.
From a neuroscientific standpoint, the practice of reciting and contemplating Nirvana Shatkam may influence brain function in several ways:
- Default Mode Network: Studies on meditation suggest practices that promote non-identification with thoughts may reduce activity in the brain’s default mode network, associated with self-referential thinking.
- Studies show that ego-dissolving practices (like mantra meditation [1], non-attachment [2] or mystical experiences) reduce DMN activity, leading to feelings of expanded consciousness and non-duality — just like the essence of Shivoham.
Alpha & Theta Brainwaves
The slow, repetitive chanting of Nirvana Shatkam activates:
- Alpha waves (8–12 Hz): linked to calm, relaxed alertness
- Theta waves (4–8 Hz): associated with deep meditation and access to the subconscious This state fosters neuroplasticity, enabling deep shifts in identity perception and trauma healing.
Quantum Resonance with Consciousness
In Quantum Consciousness or quantum-inspired cognitive models (like the Quantum Attention Framework), the self is not a fixed identity but a field of dynamic awareness.
- Nirvana Shatkam mirrors this idea by pointing beyond time, thought, and memory to a non-local, observer consciousness.
- The final declaration “I am Shiva, pure awareness” corresponds to a quantum state of unconditioned being — an attractor field of wholeness.
Summary of Nirvana Shatkam:
- Identification and Detachment: The verses systematically negate various aspects of human identity, such as the mind, intellect, ego, and sensory experiences. This process of negation, or “neti neti” (not this, not this), guides the seeker towards detachment from transient aspects of the self.
- Pure Consciousness and Bliss: Amidst the negation, Nirvana Shatkam affirms the true nature of the self as pure consciousness and bliss (Shiva). By declaring “Shivoham” (I am Shiva) in each verse, the seeker acknowledges their divine essence beyond the limitations of the ego and the material world.
- Beyond Dualities and Attachments: The hymn encourages the practitioner to rise above dualities, such as love and hate, pleasure and pain, and to relinquish attachments to worldly concepts of virtue, sin, and rituals. The seeker embraces a state of equanimity, recognizing the unity of all existence.
Embracing Your Divine Essence
As you reflect on these verses, let them serve as a guiding light on your spiritual journey. Embrace the wisdom within, disidentify from the transient aspects of existence, and realize the eternal truth of your divine essence.
Infuse your chanting with a sense of devotion and sincerity. Let each repetition be a heartfelt expression of your connection with the divine.
The Nirvana Shatkam invites you to go beyond rituals, dualities, and the limitations of birth and death, acknowledging the infinite and blissful nature that resides within you.
In the sacred journey of self-discovery, remember that “You are Shiva,” the embodiment of pure consciousness and bliss, forever free from the illusions of the world.
FAQS
Who wrote Nirvana Shatakam?
It was written by Adi Shankaracharya, a great Indian philosopher and saint of the 8th century.
What are the Protocols for Reciting the Mantra
Reciting Nirvana Shatkam is a sacred act that goes beyond sound — it is a deep contemplative journey into the Self. Following a respectful and mindful approach enhances its spiritual effect.
Ideal Time for Chanting
- Brahma Muhurta (early morning) is considered most powerful (around 4:00–6:00 AM).
- Alternatively, chant during sunrise, sunset, or just before meditation.
- If morning is not possible, any quiet time when the mind is calm is good.
Face Direction (Optional)
- Traditionally, facing east or north is considered auspicious during spiritual practices.
Chanting Style
- Chant slowly, clearly, and with feeling (bhava).
- Do not rush — pause after each line and reflect on its meaning.
- Use proper Sanskrit pronunciation, based on your mother tongue, so that bhava is not disturbed.
Do I need to be Hindu or follow Advaita to chant it?
No. The verses express universal truth about consciousness and identity. Anyone seeking self-inquiry can benefit.
Can I chant Nirvana Shatkam without knowing Sanskrit?
Yes — start with transliterations and listen to accurate recitations. Over time, you’ll naturally pick up pronunciation and meaning.
How often should I chant it?
Even once daily is transformative. If you’re called, you can chant it three or 108 times, especially during meditation or spiritual retreats.
Is it okay to chant silently in the mind?
Absolutely. Silent chanting is powerful when the mind is calm and focused. Begin aloud if you’re new, then move inward.
What are the benefits of chanting Nirvana Shatkam?
- Clarity of identity beyond ego
- Deep inner peace and stillness
- Dissolution of mental patterns
- Spiritual awakening and realization of the Self
Do I need a guru to recite Nirvana Shatkam?
While guidance helps, the verses are self-revealing. With sincerity and reflection, the mantra becomes your teacher.