Thu Apr 10 23:20:00 UTC 2025: ## The Hindu Explores the Power of Chanting Krishna’s Names
**CHENNAI, INDIA (April 11, 2025)** – A recent discourse by T.N. Aravamuda Thathachariar, published in *The Hindu*, delved into the spiritual significance of chanting the names of Lord Narayana, as described in Thiruppavai. Thathachariar highlighted that each name reflects one of Lord Narayana’s auspicious qualities, or *kalyana gunas*. By chanting these names, devotees celebrate and connect with these divine attributes.
The article focuses on pasuram five, where Andal uses the names “Mayan” and “Damodara” for Krishna. “Mayan,” signifying the miraculous, refers to Krishna’s incredible feats, such as freeing his father Vasudeva at birth and vanquishing Kamsa as a child. Despite these supernatural acts, Krishna’s simplicity and accessibility to the cowherds of Gokula further underscore the meaning of “Mayan.”
The name “Damodara,” referencing Krishna being playfully bound by Yasoda, illustrates his *saulabhya*, or approachability. This act, far from being a restriction, was a demonstration of Krishna’s divine will, highlighting his loving interaction with his foster mother. The article concludes that focusing on Krishna’s qualities through the chanting of his names purifies the devotee, burning away sins, both past and future.
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