Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Mantra: Meaning, Benefits & How to Chant

Vishnu / Krishna (Vasudeva) 108 repetitions

ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय ॥
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya is the twelve-syllable (Dwadashakshari) mantra of Vishnu and Krishna

Quick facts

Deity: Vishnu / Krishna (Vasudeva)
Mantra type: Dwadashakshari (12 syllables)
Repetitions: 108
Best day: Thursday
Best time: Morning
Mala: Tulsi or sandalwood

Meaning

Namo means "I bow", Bhagavate means "to the Lord", and Vasudevaya means "to Vasudeva" — understood as the one who dwells in all beings, and as the son of Vasudeva, Krishna.

The Dwadashakshari (twelve-syllable) mantra

It has twelve syllables, which is why it is called the Dwadashakshari mantra. The Bhagavata Purana associates it with the child devotee Dhruva, said to have chanted it with unwavering focus.

Traditional benefits

Cultivates devotion, patience and steadiness
Supports one-pointed focus during meditation
Chanted for peace and protection in the Vaishnava tradition

How to chant

Sit in a quiet spot facing east.
Use a tulsi or sandalwood mala.
Chant 108 times at a steady, unhurried pace.
Offer a tulsi leaf or flower to Vishnu or Krishna if you have an image at home.

Timeline

Morning
Sit facing east
Choose a quiet spot and light a lamp.
5 minutes
Steady the mind
Take a few slow breaths with the mala in hand.
10-15 minutes
Chant 108 times
Keep a steady pace, one bead per repetition.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the two Vishnu mantras?

Om Namo Narayanaya is the eight-syllable mantra and this is the twelve-syllable one. Both are revered.

Who was Dhruva?

A child devotee in the Bhagavata Purana who, through devotion, is said to have attained a fixed place among the stars

Best time to chant?

Early morning is preferred, but any calm time works.

Sources & further reading

Bhagavata Purana, Canto 4 (Dhruva's story)

DivineAdda Editorial

Scripture research and editorial team

Last updated 29 September 2026