Kanakadhara Stotram
Adi Shankaracharya's radiant hymn to Goddess Lakshmi, sung in gratitude and praise of her boundless grace.
About Kanakadhara Stotram
Kanakadhara Stotram (“Stream of Gold”) is a beautiful Sanskrit hymn to Goddess Mahalakshmi, composed by Adi Shankaracharya. By tradition, the young Shankara sang it spontaneously to invoke the Goddess's compassion for a poor but devoted household.
Each verse praises Lakshmi's grace, beauty, and her loving glance that brings auspiciousness. The hymn is admired for its flowing, elegant Sanskrit and its tone of pure, surrendered devotion.
Stotradhwani presents the stotram with guided recitation and study material so learners can chant it with the correct rhythm and understanding.
At a glance
- Composer
- Adi Shankaracharya
- Source
- Devotional hymn
- Verses
- 18 verses
- Language
- Sanskrit
- Tradition
- Vaishnava (Sri Lakshmi)
Why devotees chant Kanakadhara Stotram
- check_circleTraditionally chanted in praise of Goddess Lakshmi for grace and auspiciousness.
- check_circleA melodic, heartfelt hymn well suited to daily devotional practice.
- check_circleAdmired for its elegant Sanskrit and tone of complete surrender.
When to chant: It is especially recited on Fridays and during Lakshmi-centred festivals such as Varalakshmi Vratam and Diwali.
Frequently asked questions
What is Kanakadhara Stotram?expand_more
Kanakadhara Stotram is a Sanskrit hymn to Goddess Lakshmi composed by Adi Shankaracharya. Its name means “Stream of Gold”.
Who composed Kanakadhara Stotram?expand_more
It was composed by Adi Shankaracharya, who is said to have sung it spontaneously to invoke Goddess Lakshmi's compassion.
When is Kanakadhara Stotram chanted?expand_more
It is traditionally recited on Fridays and during festivals dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, and many devotees chant it as part of a daily practice.