Bilvashtakam
Eight verses honouring the bilva (bael) leaf so dear to Lord Shiva — a gentle hymn of offering and devotion.
About Bilvashtakam
Bilvashtakam (“the eight verses on the bilva leaf”) is a devotional Sanskrit hymn celebrating the bilva (bael) leaf, the three-lobed leaf considered especially dear to Lord Shiva and offered to him in worship.
Each verse describes the sanctity of offering the bilva leaf and the grace it is said to invoke, weaving together imagery of devotion and the symbolism of the three leaflets. It is a short, soothing hymn ideal for daily Shiva puja.
Stotradhwani teaches Bilvashtakam with clear pronunciation so learners can chant it during worship with ease and understanding.
At a glance
- Composer
- Traditional
- Source
- Devotional hymn
- Verses
- 8 verses
- Language
- Sanskrit
- Tradition
- Shaiva
Why devotees chant Bilvashtakam
- check_circleTraditionally chanted while offering bilva leaves in Shiva worship.
- check_circleShort and melodic — well suited to daily puja and beginners.
- check_circleA gentle meditation on devotion and surrender to Lord Shiva.
When to chant: It is especially recited during Shiva puja on Mondays, on Pradosham, and during Maha Shivaratri.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bilvashtakam?expand_more
Bilvashtakam is an eight-verse Sanskrit hymn praising the bilva (bael) leaf offered to Lord Shiva. “Ashtakam” means a hymn of eight verses.
Why is the bilva leaf important in Bilvashtakam?expand_more
The three-lobed bilva leaf is considered especially dear to Lord Shiva, and offering it is regarded as a simple yet powerful act of devotion — which the hymn celebrates.