Every year on April 9, Navkar Mantra Day is celebrated. On this auspicious occasion, followers of Jainism across the country chant the Navkar Mantra with devotion and reverence. In 2025, the day held special significance as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with several dignitaries, participated in the collective chanting of the Navkar Mantra and elaborated on its spiritual purpose. He encouraged people to steer clear of negativity and embrace a positive approach to life.
What is the Navkar Mantra
The Navkar Mantra is the most sacred and ancient mantra in Jainism. It is also known as the Namokar Mantra, Manglik Mantra, or Panch Parmesthi Mantra. Unlike many religious chants, this mantra is not dedicated to any single deity or figure but is an expression of reverence to those souls who have attained self-realization and liberation. The chanting of this mantra is done with deep concentration and devotion.
Navkar Mantra:
Namo Arihantāṇam
Namo Siddhāṇam
Namo Āyariyāṇam
Namo Uvajjhāyāṇam
Namo Loe Savva Sāhūṇam
Eso Panch Namokkāro, Savva Pāvappanāsano
Manglāṇam Cha Savvesim, Padhamam Havai Mangalam
Spiritual Importance of the Navkar Mantra
Chanting this mantra is believed to bring peace of mind, positive energy, and spiritual growth. It is said that the Navkar Mantra destroys all sins and guides the soul toward liberation. It is one of the most powerful mantras for inner purification and the welfare of the entire universe.
Rules for Chanting the Navkar Mantra
According to Jain traditions, the mantra can be chanted in odd or even numbers. A practitioner may choose to chant the mantra any number of times from 1 to 25 depending on their preference. However, it is important to chant it with complete concentration. Before beginning, one should sit in a meditative posture, calm the mind, and then start chanting the mantra.
Historical Significance of the Navkar Mantra
Several ancient inscriptions mention the Navkar Mantra. Early inscriptions primarily contain references to Namo Arihantāṇam and Namo Siddhāṇam, while later texts include the complete form of the mantra. Even today, this sacred mantra forms the foundation of both communal and individual spiritual practice in Jainism.
