Mangalam Bhagwan Vishnu

A verse of blessing

This two-line verse is one of the most familiar blessings in Hindu life. It is chanted during weddings, especially as the couple take the pheras or when the bride enters her new home, at griha pravesh, at the naming of a child, and before beginning a journey or a business. Its four phrases all repeat one word, mangalam, auspicious, and attach it to four names of Vishnu.

Meaning

• Mangalam bhagavan Vishnuh: Lord Vishnu is auspicious.
• Mangalam Garudadhvajah: auspicious is the one whose banner bears Garuda.
• Mangalam Pundarikakshah: auspicious is the lotus-eyed one.
• Mangalaya tano Harih: Hari is the very form of auspiciousness; may he extend auspiciousness to us. A closely related verse ends "mangalayatano Harih", "Hari, the abode of auspiciousness"; both readings are in use.

When to say it

• At weddings, engagements and the welcome of the bride (griha pravesh).
• Before starting any new work, opening a shop or setting out on a journey.
• As a simple closing blessing at the end of a puja or satsang.

Frequently asked questions

Why is it sung at weddings?

It invokes Vishnu, the preserver, and Lakshmi's consort, as the source of auspiciousness for a new household.

What does Garudadhvaja mean?

"The one whose flag bears Garuda", a name of Vishnu, whose vehicle is Garuda.

Is it "mangalaya tano" or "mangalayatano"?

This verse is commonly printed "mangalaya tano Harih". A different verse ("sarvada sarvakaryeshu...") ends with "mangalayatano Harih", Hari the abode of auspiciousness.

Can it be chanted daily?

Yes. Many say it after morning prayer or before leaving home.

Is there a longer version?

Some traditions add verses for Shiva, Devi and others in the same pattern, but this two-line Vishnu verse is the most widely used.