Vishnu Sahasranama, the ancient Sanskrit hymn of 1000 names of Lord Vishnu, holds a divine place in Hindu tradition. It is found in the Anushasana Parva of the Mahabharata, where Bhishma Pitamah, lying on his bed of arrows, imparts this holy stotra to Yudhishthira under the divine guidance of Lord Shri Krishna.
One Mantra Equivalent to Vishnu Sahasranama
It is believed that the daily recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama fulfills all desires, ensures prosperity, wealth, and eternal peace in the household. However, not everyone can spare the time to chant the complete stotra daily. If you're unable to recite the Vishnu Sahasranama, there is one divine mantra that bestows the same spiritual merit:
The Story Behind the Mantra
Once, Lord Shiva requested Goddess Parvati to join him for a meal. Parvati, engrossed in reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama, asked him to wait. When he called again, she repeated her request, as she was still mid-recitation. Eager and hungry, Lord Shiva said: “O Parvati! Just chant ‘Ram Ram’. The name Ram alone holds the same power as the thousand names of Vishnu.” Hearing this, Goddess Parvati was filled with awe. She chanted the divine name “Ram” and joined Lord Shiva for the meal. Since then, this mantra has been revered as a spiritual shortcut to divine grace.