Budgeting Basics - How to Budget using Cash Envelope System

I have been intending to do this post for a long, long time now... I am going to ramble here a little. You have been warned!

If you'd rather go right to the points, scroll down to the bottom of this page for the cheat sheet ;)

How the journey began

Money came into my life long after I reached my 20s and started working full time. But to be frank, even after I started earning for myself, I knew precious little about money matters. My financial skills were limited to writing down my daily spends.

I used to note down meticulously each and every rupee spent. However I was not savvy enough to tally up the total amount spent in different categories or anything. But, I did know that, on average, I would need to spend at least such-and-such amount each month. Slowly, I realized that I could just withdraw this amount all at once when the month begins and forget about it until the next month.

As time went on, I wanted to give a part of my salary to my parents and save another part. I also wanted to donate some amount to charity ( Maybe my parents suggested this one, I sure hadn't read up on this then...). Roughly, this was the pattern I followed - 5% Donate, 20% Parents, 50% Savings, 25% Spend. I was, for the most part, living with my parents, and as such, my living expenses were mostly nil.

Life goes on

And then, I married and soon, my little girl was born. And I was suddenly(!) conscious of my responsibilities towards the little angel snuggling in my arms. That was when I started looking up personal finance. It is sad that we are not taught these basic life lessons at school or anywhere else, for that matter.

And now, saving took on a new meaning altogether. I now had GOALS! And I bought a car on a loan, too. So now, I had GOALS and LOANS! And I was no longer living with my parents anymore. I had a baby to take care of. There was also a longer commute to my workplace from my new home. So now, I had GOALS, LOANS and LIVING EXPENSES! Hey, I still wanted to continue contributing to society. So to make a long story short, I had GOALS, LOANS, LIVING EXPENSES and DONATIONS! to handle.

How I budget

I was already using a free software Money Manager Ex to keep track of my income and expenses. It is a freeware that is also available on the android platform. I have used it for years and it has helped me track expenses very effectively and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in getting serious about their finances. Nowadays I use Money Lover for keeping track of my daily expenses. Knowing how much you spend and what you spend it on is the first baby step towards better finance management.

I did not consciously look up this topic online or research extensively, but as they say, "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear". While aimlessly surfing online, I clicked on one link, and that led me to another and that led me to another... and I was redirected to Dave Ramsey. Dave Ramsey has, since then, taught me a lot about how to manage my financial life more simply, more efficiently, more sensibly. I think I was subconsciously money-savvy, but I certainly learned the whys and hows and whens from the Dave Ramsey blogs, videos and talks.

I follow what Dave Ramsey calls the Zero Balance Budget. To rephrase a favorite quote, "Tell each dollar where it should go (at the beginning of the month) instead of wondering where it went (at the end of the month)". That is, every single rupee that comes into my hands is assigned a place in any one of the following four categories:

1. Sharing (Giving)
2. Settling (Loans)
3. Saving (Goals)
4. Spending (Living expenses)

... in that order, always!

Sharing

Now I use the term Sharing. It is known as daanam in the Hindu way of life, tithing in Christian belief, zakat in Islam and so on... I personally consider this more of a social responsibility than a religious practice.

I do not necessarily always give to the temple either; I occasionally do. I also give to charitable organizations, non-profit organizations, to acquaintances, friends, family - any one, really. The concept I have embraced is to give, and to give unconditionally to any one. 

I try not to over complicate this category; I keep it simple: Give away, without any expectations, whatsoever.

Settling

This category covers any loans that you might have taken. Dave Ramsey cautions against taking any loans at all.

The ideal method is to purchase only those items that you can afford right now. If you cannot spare that much money at present, save for it little by little every month, every windfall that comes your way; and then buy it.

That said, you might have already taken up a loan, as of today. Pay it back in full as early as you can. Ramsey suggests that AFTER saving for your emergency fund, eliminating debt should be your NEXT MOST IMPORTANT priority.

This is one category you should not need at all one day. Work hard at eliminating this one!

Saving

Here I set several goals that I am saving for. Most of them are long-term, some are short-term, a few are both/neither. Consider these categories for saving:

Emergency (Short Term Goal) 

Make sure you fill up this fund fully first before moving on to the others.

The idea is to have at least six to seven months of expenses in an emergency fund. This is to ensure that if, God forbid, you are left without any source of income for a while, you ought to be able to tide over it smoothly. This should give you a decent time frame to look for another job without stressing yourself crazy. DESPERATE is worst way to go job hunting!

This fund should hence include monthly expenses, as well as any repayments that you may be expected to make during those months. You must also revisit this fund once a couple of years to make sure that your current expenses and current debts are fully covered.

Retirement (Long Term Goal)

This, I have learnt since, is the most important one as it allows one to live life with dignity at an age where dignity is most craved for.

There are many online calculators that help you get to the right amount that you will need in retirement, and the amount you'll need to save each month, starting today! Carry on!

New Car (Short Term Goal)

All right, so this one is almost a no-brainer. Everyone has a car, everyone needs a car. If you can do without, that's what I would suggest. If you can't, I would suggest saving up for it first and pay in full (No loan!).

I shall let Dave Ramsey do the talking for me on this point. He has a nicely illustrated video explaining why it is incredibly foolish to be taking out a loan for something that loses 40% (or more) of its value the moment it is driven out of the showroom! Please visit this link to watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKyV8CTHeJ0

Home (Long Term or Short Term Goal)

Now here's another very, very important goal. I'm not sure whether you can really buy a house, or build one, entirely with your savings. Anyhow, save up for a sizable initial down payment.  

To own a neat, lovely house, without having to take on a huge, enormous loan (and spend the rest of your life paying back almost double the amount) - is a worthwhile goal indeed.

Children's Education (Long Term or Short Term Goal)

A book I found incredibly interesting is "The Millionaire Next Door" by Stanley and Danko. In this book, the authors note that one common trait of millionaires is that they invest heavily in their children's education. To be wealthy, do as the wealthy do. Educate your children, educate them well.

And that's where this category comes in. I do not believe in student loans at all. They just make the kid desperate to land a job even before he/she is out of college. And as you already know, DESPERATE is the worst way to go job-hunting, right?

Children's Wedding (Long Term or Short Term Goal)

In Indian culture, this is THE BIG EVENT. So you could save for this too; though, in these changing times, I often wonder...

Any other ideas? Drop me a comment!

Spending

And at last, we come to the final, totally unavoidable and usually most interesting category. It is here that you get to decide what to spend on and how much to spend on. It becomes easiest if you have been regular in noting down your expenses for the last month.

Beginning from today, write down how much money you have spent and how much you have earned for each day of the month. At the end of the month, you will have a fairly accurate idea on the average amount you will need for each expense category. Ideas for spending categories are:

1. Monthly Spends
1. Petrol/Gas/Commute/Transport category
2. Household Purchases/Grocery Shopping category
3. Bills/Services/Utility Payments category
4. Rent/Apartment Payment category
2. Occasional Spends
1. Holiday Gifting - Onam, Christmas, Ramzan...
2. House Maintenance/Repair
3. Vehicle Maintenance/Repair
4. Clothing/Accessories Shopping
5. School Fees/Back-to-School Shopping

Any other ideas? Drop me a comment!

Once that is done, you need to set aside the amount required for each month. And for this, I use the Envelope System.

What is the Envelope System?

This is a method that was devised during the World War II, when people were struggling to make the ends meet. This is how it works. At the beginning of each month, you set aside into one envelope a certain amount to spend on a particular category of expense. And each time you need to spend in that category, you take the amount from that envelope only. If the cash in the envelope runs out before the month is over, then, too bad!, but you don't spend any more in that category until the next month. Harsh? Maybe yes, but during the Depression, this was probably the only way to ensure discipline in spending habits.

I have modified the original method to suit my purposes. So here's my take on this classic method:

Save for the month after next, not for the next month.
Let us assume you are usually paid on the 30th of every month. And you have some mandatory payments on the 2nd of every month.
Scenario 1: This March 30th, you expect to receive the money for the expenses of April. And you have the payment coming up on the April 2nd. For some reason, this month your company was unable to pay you on March 30th and pay day was extended. This puts you in a real fix. You don't have the money for the payment!
Scenario 2:  This March 30th, you expect to receive the money for the expenses of May. And the company announces that pay day is extended. Note that last month, you have already saved for April. So come April 2nd, you already have the money for the mandatory payment. Finally your company pays the salary on Apr 10th. Now you refill your envelope with the money allocated for the month of May, no hurry!

This simple tip ensures that you have the time for a breather at the beginning of the month and are not stressed about delays in pay crediting.

Give, Give, Give
The more you give, the more you'll receive. Have a separate envelope for giving. Set aside a percentage of your monthly income for sharing - I suggest five to ten percent of your income, for starters.

Pay yourself first
Always save before you spend. Have envelopes for saving goals too, especially the short-term ones. You can set up envelopes for all your saving categories. Here are two important ones I have:

1. Fixed Deposit (FD) Envelope 
2. Recurring Deposit (RD) Envelope

All the money saved in the FD envelope go towards the long-term savings. I have a pre-calculated amount that intend to save for each goal. I allocate the certificates among these goals until each goal receives the intended amount.

For purpose of instruction only, consider these long term goals:

Retirement goal - 7 lakh rupees needed

House Purchase - 10 lakh rupees needed

Each month I save 10,000 for FDs. After 5 months, I'd have 50,000 in the envelope. This would be used for a new Term Deposit earmarked for retirement. After another 5 months, I'd have another 50,000 which would be used to begin another Term Deposit earmarked for House Purchase. The process would continue until the desired amount is reached.

It would be handy to keep a list of all the FD certificate numbers and the goals they are allotted to. And, never withdraw the interest. Just let it all accumulate and when the term expires, renew the entire amount for another term. Let all the compounding work its magic! 

All the money saved in the RD envelope go towards the short-term savings. Once established, an RD loop helps in achieving short-term plans. So this is what I call the RD loop.

Why do I use Recurring Deposits/RD Loop?
Every year in January, I begin a new Recurring Deposit (RD) for a time period of five years. RD is a scheme offered by banks, post office etc... in which you deposit a small amount each month and at the end of the tenure, you receive the entire amount plus the interest.

Starting a new RD each year continuously gives a great advantage. Assuming you start in 2005:
Start a new RD in 2005 which matures in 2010.
Start a new RD in 2006 which matures in 2011.
Start a new RD in 2007 which matures in 2012.
Start a new RD in 2008 which matures in 2013.
Start a new RD in 2009 which matures in 2014.
Start a new RD in 2010 which matures in 2015... and so on.
If you keep this up, you are assured of getting a good sized lump sum amount at the beginning of each year from 2010 onward.

You could also have a Gold Savings envelope, Mutual Fund envelope or a Stocks envelope, if you are interested.

Any other ideas? Drop me a comment!

Thrift - The success secret of the millionaire
And I definitely don't mean being miserly, stinginess, penny-pinching etc... I mean being sensible with money, smart-spending, prudence, economizing etc...

Once you begin noting down your monthly expenses, you will be more aware of how much you need in each spending category. Refer to the list mentioned above and have a separate envelope for each one that you need. Put aside the required amount each month into the envelopes and spend from them. Once the amount set aside for a month is over, do not spend any further.

Avoid impulse buying
If you see something online that you desperately need, save it for later. Or bookmark it. Or add it to the cart, but don't complete the purchase. Wait for at least one month. And then go back to decide whether to complete the purchase. Half the time, believe me, you won't want it as badly. 

While shopping, it is imperative to have a shopping list with you. Not just to remind you of all that you need, but also to prevent you from loitering around the aisles piling up stuff in your shopping cart.

Look up this video for an interesting insight on Needs v/s Wants: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjbjaPLa0-g

Go shopping once a week only
Okay, twice a week. Don't go shopping everyday. The less you visit the store, the more stuff you'll have to buy each time. This will automatically prevent unnecessary purchases.

Pay in cash
It is much more difficult to hand over solid money than to swipe a card on a machine.

NEVER EVER USE CREDIT
I quote Dave Ramsey again "Spending money that you don't have to buy stuff that you don't need to impress people you don't like" is a sure-shot way to financial ruin.

A debit card works just as well and will never let you use money-you-don't-have. Cut up those credit cards. They are not doing anything good for you at all. Look up this video on Credit and Debt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88bCYyLAx3A


Managing the envelopes every month

Let us go back to our hypothetical example. It is March 10th and you have received the salary for this month. Remember you are allocating for May now. On the Commute envelope, mark May 2015 and put the amount reserved for Commute category inside. Behind the envelope write down the date, the amount put in and the balance (Use this template).

March moves on and so does April. It is now May and you need to fill up on petrol tomorrow. So take out say 1/4 the amount allotted for each month and cross out 1/4 of the writing ( like this: May 2015). Behind the envelope write dow  n the date, the amount taken out and the balance.Crossing the month off helps to ensure you don't overspend during the month and take over the amount kept away for the next month.

Next time you need to use more from this envelope during May, take out another 1/4 ( i.e. now half of the amount for the month of May is used up) and cross out half of the month (like this: May 2015). And remember to write down the date, amount and balance behind the envelope.

This is how your envelope should look like at the before mentioned date - with half of May money used up and the Aug money still in reserve:
Jan 2015
Feb 2015
Mar 2015
April 2015
May 2015
Aug 2015

Note that during the month of Feb 2015, you were able to save half the amount allotted.

Let me also direct you to the following link in which Dave Ramsey talks about how you should save, spend and invest during different stages of your life.
http://www.daveramsey.com/blog/your-age-your-money-how-to-spend-save-invest-now

Cheat Sheet:

1. Every single rupee of your income must be accounted for and allotted for a specific purpose
2. Build up an emergency fund first 
3. Every month, first set aside money in the Share Envelope 
4. Next fill up the Settlement Envelopes - Eliminate this category as soon as you can
5. Then fill up the Save Envelopes - For long-term investments, look towards Mutual Funds or Stocks or Fixed Deposits
6. Lastly fill up the Spend Envelopes
7. Always save for the month after next - Do yourself that favor!
8. Be prudent while spending. Mull over big-time purchases for at least one whole month
9. Always use cash
10. NO CREDIT CARDS - Use debit cards, if you must

Thank you for visiting Random Writez ...  

Varsha

Android Apps I Can't Live Without!

Okay, so the title is a little dramatic; it's not that bad ;)...  But I sure would miss them a lot! Click on the name of the app to go directly to the Play Store link.

I use the Apex Launcher as the default launcher app. I have found it to be classy and extremely capable.

Home screen:

Timely:

This is a beautiful, beautiful alarm clock. And I love the simple widget. Use my code: 0M7J-4JH1-7AB8 to earn two free points.

Yahoo Weather:
I love the minimalist look of the 1x1 widget of this app. The weather details are very accurate.

Brilliant Quotes:
I always liked quotations; so I have this widget on my home screen too.

Screen 2:

Any Do:
The best to-do manager with THE best interface around, in my opinion.

Contact shortcuts:
The remaining items on this screen are contact shortcuts. A nice pretty picture of my closest and dearest people for quick dialing and messaging... I don't use the "Direct Dial" or "Direct Message" option, just the "Contact" shortcut.

Screen 3:

Jorte Calendar:
My favorite calendar app; what's more it syncs with my Google calendar. Might have tried out the Google Calendar app, but it does not have a good monthly view, which is what I need.

Screen 4:

Google Now:
This screen is fully used up by the Google Now widget. I love the way Now predicts a lot of things. Personally, the privacy issues don't bother me much either, as long as I am given relevant info right when I need it!

Other Apps:

RealCalc:
For a while, I had gone back to my studies. I use this calculator when I need the scientific help; otherwise, I go with the stock calculator.

Out of Milk:
I use this one to keep stock of available items at home and also as a running shopping list. I have tried quite a few shopping list apps and zeroed it on this one at the end.

Yahoo Folder:
This folder holds my two favorite Yahoo apps, Yahoo Messenger and Yahoo! Mail.

Google Folder:
This folder holds my most frequently used Google apps, GMail, Keep, Google+, Hangouts, Maps, Translate and Play Books.

Facebook:
The official Facebook app is another one I use occasionally ;)

Google Search Bar:
The Google search bar is also included in this screen.

Play Music:
This app has a good interface, but I don't like the fact that I cannot see my music folder-wise.

MX Player:
An excellent video player.

Pixlr Express:
A very good image editor. I often use it to play around with my pics.

Snapseed: 
This is also a very good image editor. I use it less often though.

CamScanner:
I use this very often to scan my favorite articles, pics, documents, anything at all.

Ted:
This app gives quick access to Ted Conferences and Talks. An nice way to keep myself updated.

WordWeb:
A good dictionary and it works offline.

NewsHunt:
This app shows up all local papers in India, and I believe this is an easy way for Indians to keep up with the home news.

Clean Master:
I trust this app to keep my mobile clean.

Flipboard:
I love the magazines for both their content and beauty.

Your Magnifier:
I installed this to use as a magnifying glass, should the need arise.

Tiny Flashlight:
Again, installed this in case I need it some day.

TubeMate:
It allows to download videos to your mobile. I use it occasionally if the net speeds are too slow for offline watching. Be careful, though. This app is not available in Play Store.

YouTube:
Well, like all of u out there, I too love this one.

Astro File Manager:
I use this file manager. This one can also work with Google Drive, Dropbox etc...

Google Drive:
Quite indispensable in my work. Keep sharing docs between my home PC and office PC.

Wallpaper Changer:
I use this software to rotate my wallpapers regularly. Neat app. Does what it says well.

And the absolutely indispensable games..........

Dots:
A beautiful and addictive hit game!

WordKick:
The goal is to change one four-letter word into another four-letter word by changing only one letter at the time. Very good indeed!

One Touch Drawing 2:
The challenge: Draw given unique shapes without raising your finger. The problem: You cannot draw the same line twice. A very addictive puzzle game.

Hangman Classic:
When I am in a mood for the classic word puzzle game.

Jigsaw Puzzles:
This game has 4 game modes: regular jigsaw, shuffle, swap, rotate.

Diamond Blast:
My daughter simply loves this one!

Classic Words Free:
Still learning the ropes of this game.

Minesweeper Classic:
The classic game for all time.

Snake '97:
Pure nostalgia! A remake of the original Snake.

Word Search:
The best Word Search game. Love it!


Try these wonderful apps and as always, do comment on your favorites too...

Shlokas for everyday routines

The Hindu way of life prompts us to call for divine grace in even the most mundane daily action of an individual. This is perhaps a very subtle way to ensure that we routinely remember God without even realizing it. I think it is a good idea to incorporate prayers into the daily routine of children. It gives them a sense of bonding to our culture and sanskriti.

At a recent PTA meeting, I remember a teacher saying, "Whatever your religion, now is the time to teach your children religious texts, shlokas, passages, rituals etc... because whatever they are taught at this age, will most likely remain in their subconcious minds forever. And they learn fast at this age, too!" My daughter is now almost 7 years old.

I have now established the routine of sandhyanaamam in my house. Every evening at six o'clock, my daughter washes up and sits ready for the evening prayers. She can recite most of the shlokas from memory, too. And the keertanas.

In addition, we now chant mantras before specific activities. Hindu culture recommends that every human action be dedicated to God. Hence we invoke the blessings of the divine beings before (almost every) task. The list below is in no way exhaustive. There are mantras for almost everything under the sun, but these are the ones I am teaching my daughter now. As always, please consider this a work under progress... as I teach my daughter anything further, I'll be back to update.

The following are the mantras to be chanted everyday...

On getting up in the morning:

ഓം ഭൂർ ഭുവസ്വ തത് സവിതുർ വരേണ്യം 

ഭർഗോ ദേവസ്യ ധീമഹി ധിയോ യോന പ്രചോദയാത് 
ॐ भूर्भुवस्व तत सवितुर वरेण्यम 
भार्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो योनः प्रचोदयात |

Om Bhur Bhuvasvah Tat Savitur Varenyam

Bhargo Devasya Dhi Mahi Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayat

Before stepping on the ground:

സമുദ്രവസനേ ദേവി പർവതസ്തന മണ്ടലേ 

വിഷ്ണുപത്നീ നമസ്തുഭ്യം പാദസ്പർശം ക്ഷമസ്വമേ
समुद्र वसने देवी पर्वतस्तन मंडले

विष्णुपत्नी नमस्तुभ्यं पादस्पर्शम क्षमस्वमे 

Samudra Vasane Devi Parvathasthana Mandale
Vishnupatnee Namasthubhyam Paadasparsham Kshamasvame

Before bath:

ഗംഗേ ച യമുനേ ചൈവ ഗോദാവരീ സരസ്വതീ 

നർമദേ സിന്ധു കാവേരി ജലേസ്മിൻ സന്നിധിം കുരു
गंगे च यमुने चैव गोदावरी सरस्वती

नर्मदे सिन्धु कावेरी जलेस्मिन सन्निधम कुरु 

Gange Cha Yamune Chaiva Godaavari Saraswati
Narmade Sindhu Kaaveri Jalesmin Sannidhim Kuru

Before eating:

അന്നപൂർണേ സദാ പൂർണേ ശങ്കരപ്രാണ വല്ലഭേ 

ജ്ഞാന വൈരാഗ്യ സിദ്ധ്യാർത്ഥം ഭിക്ഷാം ദേഹി ച പാർവതി 

अन्नपूर्णे सदा पूर्णे शंकर प्राण वल्लभे

ज्ञान वैराग्य सिध्यार्थं भिक्षां देहि च पार्वती 

Annapoorne Sadaa Poorne Shankarapraana Vallabhe

Gnaana Vairaagya Siddhyaartham Bhikshaam Dehi Cha Paarvathi

ബ്രഹ്മാർപണം ബ്രഹ്മഹാവിർ ബ്രഹ്മാഗ്നൗ ബ്രഹ്മണാഹുതം 

ബ്രഹ്മൈവ തേന ഗന്തവ്യം ബ്രഹ്മകർമ സമാധിനാ 

ब्रह्मार्पणं ब्रह्महाविर ब्रह्माग्नौ ब्राह्मणाः हुतं

ब्रह्मैव तेन गन्तव्यं ब्रह्मकर्म समाधिना 

Brahmaarpanam Brahmahaavir Brahmagnau Brahmanaahutam

Brahmaivatena Gantavyam Brahmakarma Samaadhinaa

Before studying (Vidyarajagopala Manthram):

ഓം കൃഷ്ണ കൃഷ്ണ ഹരേ കൃഷ്ണ
സർവജ്ഞത്വം പ്രസീദമേ
രമാരമണ വിശ്വേശ
വിദ്യാമാശു പ്രയശ്ചമേ
Om Krishna Krishna Hare Krishna
Sarvagnyathvam Praseedame
Ramaaramana Vishwasha
Vidyaamaashu Prayashchame

Before going out of the house (Ganesha Ekavimshathi):

This shloka includes 21 names of Ganesha. This is to be recited before beginning work or starting out of the house for anything. We request the remover of obstacles to assist us in all our endeavors.

ഗണംജയോ ഗണപതിർ ഹേരംബോ ധരണീധര:
മഹാഗണപതിർ ലക്ഷപ്രദ: ക്ഷിപ്രപ്രസാദന:
അമോഘസിദ് ധിരമിതൊ മന്ത്രശ് ചിന്താമണിർനിധി:
സുമംഗളോ ബീജമാശാപൂരകോ   വരദശ് ശിവ:
കാശ്യപോ നന്ദനോ വാചാസിദ്ധോഢുഠഢിവിനായക:
മോദകൈരെഭിരത്രൈക വിംശ്യത്യാനാമഭി: പുമാൻ
യ:സ്തൌതി മദ്ഗതമനോ: മദാരാധനതത്പര:
സ്തുതോ നാമ് നാം സഹസ്രേണ
തേനാഹം നാത്ര സംശയ:
നമോ നമ: സുരവര പൂജിതാംഘ്രയേ
നമോ നമോ നിരുപമമംഗളാത് മനേ
നമോ നമോ വിപുലപദൈകസിദ്ധയേ
നമോ നമ: കരി കലഭാനനായ തേ
Ganamjayo Ganapathir Herambho Dharaneedharah
Mahaganapathir Lakshapradah Kshipraprasadanah
Amokhasidh Dhiramitho Manthrash Chintamanir Nidhi
Sumangalo Beejamaashaapoorako Varadash Shiva
Kaashyapo Nandano Vaachasidhdhodumdi Vinayaka
Modakairebhirathraika Vimshyathyaanamabhipuman
Yahsthauthi Matgathamano Madaaradhana Thatparah
Stutho NaamNaam Sahasrena
Thenaaham Naathra Samshayah
Namo Namah Suravara PoojithaamKhraye
Namo Namo Nirupama Mangalaath Mane
Namo Namo Vipulapadaika Sidhaye
Namo Namah Kari Kalabhananaaya The

Before sleeping:

This shloka is assumed to have the power to ward off fearful dreams. It lists the ten names of Arjuna. This is the Malayalam version, so I haven't included the Devanagiri script.
അർജുനൻ ഫൽഗുണൻ പാർഥൻ വിജയനും 

വിശ്രുതമായ പേർ പിന്നെ കിരീടിയും 

ശ്വേതവാഹനൻ ധനഞ്ജയൻ ജിഷ്ണുവും 

ഭീതിഹരം സവ്യസാചി ഭീഭൽസുവും 

പത്തു നാമങ്ങളും ഭക്ത്യാ ജപിക്കിലോ 

നിത്യ ഭയങ്ങൾ അകന്നുപോം നിശ്ചയം 

Arjunan Phalgunan Paarthan Vijayanum
Vishruthamaayaper Pinee Kireetiyum
Shwetavahanan Dhananjayan Jishnuvum
Bheetheeharam Savyasaachi Bheebhalsuvum
Pathu Naamangalum Bhakthyaa Japikkilo
Nithya Bhayangal Akannupom Nischayam

Just before sleeping, we beg forgiveness for any wrongdoings, knowingly or unknowingly brought about.
കരചരണകൃതം  വാ കായജം കർമജം വാ 

ശ്രവണനയനജം വാ മാനസം വാ പരാധം 

വിഹിതമവിഹിതം വാ സർവമേതത് ക്ഷമസ്വ 

ജയ ജയ കരുണാബ്ധെ ശ്രീ മഹാദേവ ശംഭോ
करचरणकृतं वा कायजं कर्मजं वा

श्रवण नयनजं वा मानसं वापराधं 

विहितमविहितं वा सर्वमेतत क्षमस्व 

जय जय करुणाब्धे श्री महादेव शंभो 

Karacharanana Kritham Vaa Kaayajam Karmajam Vaa
Shravana Nayanajam Vaa Maanasam Vaa Paraadham
Vihitamavihitam Vaa Sarvametath Kshamaswa
Jaya Jaya Karunaabdhe Shree Mahaadeva Shambho

As always, do leave your comments.

Malayalam Tharattu Paattu - Omana Thingal Kidaavo

My little girl's favorite thaarattu paattu is Omana Thingal Kidavo. I think it is a favorite of many mallu kids all over the world.

It was composed renowned poet Shri Irayimman Thampi for putting the young Swati Thirunal to sleep. One interesting fact I cam across regarding this evergreen lullaby is that not even once do the lyrics ask the little one to go to sleep. The words reflect the happiness and gratitude of the family as his birth rescued the royal family from the threat of being annexed into British India for want of a male heir.

This lullaby is easily found all over the net, and yet... this song means much to my family and so I am adding it here. Hope you find it useful...

ഓമന തിങ്കള്‍ കിടാവോ- നല്ല കോമളത്താമാരപ്പൂവോ

പൂവില്‍ നിറഞ്ഞ മധുവോ- പരി പൂര്‍ണേന്ദു തന്‍റെ നിലാവോ

പുത്തന്‍ പവിഴക്കൊടിയോ- ചെറു തത്തകള്‍ കൊഞ്ചും മൊഴിയോ

ചാഞ്ചാടിയാടും മയിലോ - മൃദു പഞ്ചമം പാടും കുയിലോ

തുള്ളുമിളമാന്‍ കിടാവോ - ശോഭ കൊള്ളുന്നോരന്നക്കൊടിയോ

ഈശ്വരന്‍ തന്ന നിധിയോ - പരമേശ്വരിയേന്തും കിളിയോ

പാരിജാതത്തിന്‍ തളിരോ - എന്‍റെ ഭാഗ്യ ദ്രുമത്തിന്‍ ഫലമോ

വാത്സല്യ രത്നത്തെ വയ്പ്പാന്‍ - മമ വാച്ചോരു കാഞ്ചനച്ചെപ്പോ

ദ്രിഷ്ടിക്കു വച്ചൊരമൃതോ - കൂരിരുട്ടത്തു വച്ച വിളക്കോ

കീര്‍ത്തി ലതയ്ക്കുള്ള വിത്തോ - എന്നും കേടു വരാതുള്ള മുത്തോ

ആര്‍ത്തി തിമിരം കളവാന്‍ - ഉള്ള മാര്‍ത്താണ്ട ദേവ പ്രഭയോ

സുക്തിയില്‍ കണ്ട പൊരുളോ - അതി സൂക്ഷ്മമാം വീണാരവമോ

വമ്പിച്ച സന്തോഷവല്ലി - തന്‍റെ കൊമ്പത്തു പൂത്ത പൂവല്ലി 

പിച്ചകത്തിന്‍ മലര്‍ച്ചെണ്ടോ - നാവിനിച്ചനല്‍കുന്ന കല്‍ക്കണ്ടോ

കസ്തൂരി തന്റെ മണമോ - പേർത്തും സത്തുകൾക്കുള്ള ഗുണമോ

പൂമണമേറ്റൊരു കാറ്റോ - ഏറ്റം പൊന്നില്‍ തെളിഞ്ഞുള്ള മാറ്റോ

കാച്ചിക്കുറുക്കിയ പാലോ - നല്ല ഗന്ധമെഴും പനിനീരോ

നന്മ വിളയും നിലമോ - ബഹുധര്‍മങ്ങള്‍ വാഴും ഗൃഹമോ

ദാഹം കളയും ജലമോ - മാര്‍ഗഖേദം കളയും തണലോ

വാടാത്ത മല്ലികപ്പൂവോ - ഞാനും തെടിവച്ചുള്ള ധനമോ

കണ്ണിനു നല്ല കണിയോ - മമ കൈവന്ന ചിന്താമണിയോ

ലാവണ്യ പുണ്യ നദിയോ - ഉണ്ണി ക്കാര്‍വര്‍ണ്ണന്‍ തന്‍റെ കളിയോ

ലക്ഷ്മി ഭഗവതി തന്‍റെ - തിരു നെറ്റിയിലിട്ട കുറിയോ

എന്നുണ്ണിക്കൃഷ്ണന്‍ ജനിച്ചോ - പാരിലിങ്ങനെ വേഷം ധരിച്ചോ

പദ്മനാഭന്‍ തന്‍ കൃപയോ - ഇനി ഭാഗ്യം വരുന്ന വഴിയോ

Sree Krishna Stuthi - Sandhyanaamam contd...

In continuation to the Sandhyanaamam series, I usually wind up with my favorite Sree Krishna stutis. Here they are...


കണ്ണനെ കാണണം കണ്ണനെ കാണണം 

കണ്ണനെൻ കണ്ണിനു കർപ്പൂരമാകണം 

അഞ്ജനലേപന രഞ്ജിത്തചഞ്ചല 

മഞ്ജുള ലൊചനന്തന്മുഖം കാണണം 

താവിയ പുഞ്ചിരി മായാതെ മിന്നുമാ 

മാധവൻതന്നുടെ ചെഞ്ചുണ്ടു കാണണം 

കണ്ണനെ കാണണം കണ്ണനെ കാണണം 

കണ്ണനെൻ കണ്ണിനു കർപ്പൂരമാകണം 

Kannane Kaananam Kannane Kaananam
Kannanen Kanninu Karpooramaakanam
Anjanalepana Ranjitha Chanchala
Manjulalochanan Thanmukham Kaananam
Thaaviya Punchiri Maayathe Minnumaa
Maadhavan Thannude Chenchundu Kaananam
Kannane Kaananam Kannane Kaananam
Kannanen Kanninu Karpooramaakanam...

New!
Sree Krishna Sandhyanaamam 

Jayajanardhana Krishna Radhikapadhe
Janavimochana Krishna Janmamochana
Garudavahana Krishna Gopikapadhe
Nayanamohana Krishna Neerajekshana
Sujanabaandhava Krishna Sundarakrithe
Madanakomala Krishna Madhavahare
Vasumatipathe Krishna Vasavanuja
Varagunakara Krishna Vaishnavakrithe
Suruchiranana Krishna Shauryavaridhe
Muraharavibho Krishna Mukthidayaka
Vimalapalaka Krishna Vallaveepadhe
Kamalalochana Krishna Kamadayaka
Vimalagathraka Krishna Bhakthavalsala
Charanapallavam Krishna Karunakomalam
Kuvalayekshana Krishna Komalakrithe
Thavapadaambhujam Krishna Sharanamekane
Bhuvananaayaka Krishna Pavanakrithe
Gunaganojwala Krishna Nalinalochana
Pranayavaridhe Krishna Gunaganakara
Ramasodara Krishna Deenavalsala
Kamasundara Krishna Pahisarvada
Narakanashana Krishna Narasakhajaya
Devakisutha Krishna Karunyambudhe
Kamsanashana Krishna Dwarakavasin
Bhasuratmaja Krishna Dehimangalam
Trippadambhujam Krishna Kamakomalam
Bhakthadasanaam Krishna Adiyanesadaa
Kaathukollane Krishna Sarvadavibho

ജയജനാർധനാ കൃഷ്ണാ രാധികാപതേ
ജനവിമോചനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ജന്മമോചനാ
ഗരുഡവാഹനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ഗോപികാപതേ
നയനമോഹനാ കൃഷ്ണാ നീരജേക്ഷണാ
സുജന ബാന്ധവാ കൃഷ്ണാ സുന്ദരാകൃതേ
മദനകോമളാ  കൃഷ്ണാ മാധവാഹരേ
വസുമതീ പതേ കൃഷ്ണാ വാസവാനുജാ
വരഗുണാകരാ കൃഷ്ണാ വൈഷ്ണവാകൃതേ
സുരുചിരാനനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ശൌര്യവാരിധേ
മുരഹരാവിഭോ കൃഷ്ണാ മുക്തിദായകാ
വിമലപാലകാ കൃഷ്ണാ വല്ലവീപതേ
കമലലോചനാ കൃഷ്ണാ കാമദായകാ
വിമലഗാത്രകാ കൃഷ്ണാ ഭക്തവത്സലാ
ചരണപല്ലവം കൃഷ്ണാ കരുണകോമളം
കുവലയേക്ഷണാ കൃഷ്ണാ കൊമളാകൃതേ

തവപദാംബുജം കൃഷ്ണാ ശരണമേകണേ 

ഭുവനനായകാ കൃഷ്ണാ പാവനാകൃതേ 
ഗുണഗണോജ്വലാ കൃഷ്ണാ നളിനലോചനാ 
പ്രണയവാരിധേ കൃഷ്ണാ ഗുണഗണാകരാ 
രാമസോദരാ കൃഷ്ണാ ദീനവത്സലാ 
കാമസുന്ദരാ കൃഷ്ണാ പാഹി സർവ്വദാ 
നരകനാശനാ കൃഷ്ണാ നരസഖാ ജയാ 
 ദേവകീസുതാ കൃഷ്ണാ കാരുണ്യാംബുധേ 
കംസനാശനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ദ്വാരകാവാസിൻ 
ഭാസുരാത്മജാ കൃഷ്ണാ ദേഹി മംഗളം 
ത്രിപ്പദാംബുജം കൃഷ്ണാ കാമകോമളം 
ഭക്തദാസനാം കൃഷ്ണാ അടിയനെ സദാ 
കാത്തുകൊള്ളണേ കൃഷ്ണാ സർവ്വദാ വിഭോ 

Anjana Sreedhara

The first stuti is Anjana Sreedhara by the famed Krishna devotee Poonthaanam. Note that every line begins with the syllables അ ആ ഇ ഈ ഉ ഊ...

അഞ്ജനശ്രീധര ചാരുമൂർത്തേ കൃഷ്ണ അഞ്ജലികുപ്പി വണങ്ങീടുന്നേൻ ...

ആനന്ദലങ്കാര വാസുദേവ കൃഷ്ണ ആതംഗമെല്ലാം അകറ്റീടെണേ...

ഇന്ദിരാനാഥ ജഗന്നിവാസാ കൃഷ്ണ ഇന്നെൻറെ മുന്നിൽ വിളങ്ങീടെണേ ...

ഈരെഴുലകിനും ഏകനാഥാ കൃഷ്ണ ഈരഞ്ചുദിക്കും നിറഞ്ഞരൂപാ ...

ഉണ്ണിഗോപാല കമലനേത്രാ കൃഷ്ണ ഉള്ളിൽ നീ വന്നു വസിച്ചീടെണേ ...

ഊഴിയിൽ വന്നു പിറന്ന നാഥാ കൃഷ്ണ ഊനം കൂടാതെ തുണച്ചീടെണേ ...

എന്നുളിൽ ഉള്ളൊരു താപമെല്ലാം കൃഷ്ണ എന്നുണ്ണി കണ്ണാ ശമിപ്പിക്കണേ ...

ഏടലർ ബാണനു തുല്യമൂർത്തെ കൃഷ്ണ ഏറിയ മോദേന കൈ തൊഴുന്നേൻ ...

ഐഹികമാകും സുഖത്തിലഹോ കൃഷ്ണ അയ്യോ നമുക്കൊരു മോഹമില്ലേ ...

ഒട്ടല്ല കൌതുകമന്തരംഗേ  കൃഷ്ണ ഓമൽ തിരുമേനി ഭംഗികാണ്മാൻ ...

ഓടക്കുഴൽ വിളി മേളമോടെ കൃഷ്ണ ഓടിവരികെൻറെ ഗോപബാലാ ...

ഔദാര്യ കോമള കേളിശീലാ കൃഷ്ണ ഔപമ്യമില്ല ഗുണങ്ങൾകേതും ...

അംബുജലോചന നിൻപാദപങ്കജ--മംബോടു ഞാൻ ഇദാ കൂമ്പിടുന്നേൻ ...

അത്യന്ദ സുന്ദരാ നന്ദസൂനോ കൃഷ്ണ അത്തൽ കളഞെന്നെ പാലിക്കണേ ...

കൃഷ്ണ മുകിൽവർണാ വൃഷ്ണികുലേശ്വരാ കൃഷ്ണാമ്പുജെക്ഷിണാ കൈ തൊഴുന്നേൻ ...

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ...

Anjana Sreedhara Charumoorthe Krishna Anjali Koopi Vanangidunnen.
Aananda Alangara Vaasudeva Krishna Aathangam Ellam Akattidene.
Indiranadha Jagannivasa Krishna, Innende Munnil Vilangidene.
Erezhulaginum Ekanaadha Krishna, Eeranju Dikkum Niranja Roopa.
Unni Gopala Kamalanethra Krishna, Ullil Nee Vannu Vilangidene.
Oozhiyil Vannu Piranna Naadha Krishna, Oonam Koodathe Thunachidene.
Ennulilulloru Taapamellam Krishna, Ennunikanna Shamipickene.
Edalalar Banannu Thulyamurthe Krishna, Ereeyamodhena Kaithozhunnen.
Aithikamaakum Sukhathilaho Krishna. Ayyo Enikkoru Mohamille.
Ottalla Kauthugamantharange Krishna. Omalthirumeni Bhangikaanaan.
Odakkuzhalvili Melamode Krishna, Odivarigende Gopabaala.
Oudharyakomala Kelisheela Krishna, Oupamyamilla Gunangalkethum.
Ambujalochana Ninpaada Pankajam, Ambodu Njaanidaa Koombidunnen.
Athyanda Sundara Nandasuno Krishna, Atthal Kalanjenne Paalikkene.
Krishna Mukilvarna, Vrushnee Kuleshwara, Krishnambujekshana Kaithozhunnen.
Krishna hare jaya, Krishna hare jaya, Krishna hare jaya, Krishna hare...


Its translation has been given by P R Ramachander (click here for the link) as follows:

Hey, pretty Krishna, who is black and who carries Lakshmi,
Salutations to you with folded hands,
Hey happy Krishna, who is decorated and who is Vasudeva,
Be pleased to remove all my sorrows.

Hey Krishna who lives all over the world and who is consort of Lakshmi,
Please come and appear before me,
Hey Krishna who is the only lord of fourteen worlds,
Hey God who fills all the ten directions fully,

Oh lotus eyed Krishna, who is the baby cowherd,
Be pleased to come and live inside me,
Oh Krishna who has taken birth on this earth,
Please help me to live without any problems.

Oh Krishna, you should put out the raging,
Problems of my heart, oh my baby Krishna,
Oh Krishna who is equal to the formidable Banasura,
I salute you with greatest happiness.

Oh Krishna I do not have any desire,
And alas I do not have any desire,
And Oh Krishna the curiosity with in me is great,
To see the beauty of your body, Oh Krishna.

Oh Krishna, along with the music of your flute with drum beats,
Oh Lad of the cowherds, please come running to me,
Oh pretty and charitable Krishna, who is playful,
There is no comparison at all for your qualities.

I salute your lotus like feet with love for  you,
Oh Lord with lotus like eyes,
Oh most pretty one, Ok Krishna ,oh  son of Nanda,
Please drive away my problems and take care of me.

Oh cloud coloured Krishna, Oh star of the clan of Vrushnees,
Oh Krishna with lotus like eyes, I salute you,
Victory to Krishna who is hari, Victory to Krishna who is Hari,
Victory to Krishna who is Hari, Krishna who is Hari.

Karimukil Varnante

I could not find much about this second stuti online. I found it originally in an old naamapustakam years back and learned it back then. Note that every line begins with the syllables ക കാ കി കീ കു കൂ ...

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ 
കരിമുകിൽവർണന്റെ തിരുവുടലെന്നുടെ അരികിൽവന്നെപ്പോഴും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കാലിൽ ചിലമ്പും കിലുക്കി നടക്കുന്ന ബാലഗോപാലനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കിങ്ങിണിയും വളമോതിരവും ചാർത്തി ഭംഗിയോടെൻ മുന്നിൽ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കീർത്തിയേറീടും ഗുരുവായൂർ വാഴുന്നോരാർത്തീഹരൻ തന്നെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കുഞ്ഞികൈ രണ്ടിലും വെണ്ണ കൊടുത്തമ്മ രഞ്ജിപ്പിക്കുന്നതും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൂത്താടീടും പശുക്കുട്ടികളുമായി ഒത്തുകളിപ്പതും  കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കെട്ടിയിട്ടീടുമുരലും വലിചങ്ങു മുട്ടുകുത്തുന്നതും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കേകീകളെപോലെ നൃത്തമാടീടുന്ന ബാലഗോപാലനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൈകളിൽ ചന്ദ്രനെ മെല്ലെവരുത്തിയ ലോകൈകനാഥനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൊഞ്ചി കൊണ്ടോരോരോ വാക്കരുലീടുന്ന ചഞ്ചലനേത്രനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കോലും കുഴലും എടുത്തു വനത്തിൽപ്പോയ് കാലിമേക്കുന്നതും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൗതുകമേറുന്നോരുണ്ണി ശ്രീകൃഷ്ണന്റെ ചേതോഹര രൂപം കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കംസ സഹോദരി തന്നിൽ പിറന്നൊരു വാസുദേവൻ തന്നെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ 

Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare.
Karimukil Varnante Thiruvudalennude Arikil Vannepozhum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kaalil Chilambum Kilucki Nadackunna Baala Gopaalane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kinginiyum Vala Mothiravum Chaarti Bhangiyodenmunnil Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Keerthiyereedum Guruvaayoor Vaazhunnoraarthiharan Thanne Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kunjikai Randilum Venna Koduthamma Renjippickunnathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Koothaadeedum Pashukuttikalumaayi Othukalipathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kettiyitteedum Uralum Valichangu Muttu Kuthunnathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kekikaleppole Nrithamaadeedunna Bala Gopalane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kaikalil Chandrane Melle Varuthiya Lokaikanaadhane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Konchikkondororo Vaakkaruleedunna Chanchala Nethrane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kolum Kuzhalum Eduthu Vanathilpoy Kaali Mekkunnathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kauthukamerunnorunni Sreekrishnante Chethohararoopam Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kamsa Sahodari Thannil Pirannoru Vaasudevan Thanne Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare.


Also see http://randomwritez.blogspot.in/2013/04/sandhyanaamam-hindu-evening-prayers.html for the complete naamajapams that we recite before Sree Krishna Stutis.

Neethisaaram - Part 4

continued...

6. One can never change the nature of the beast!

Garlic, even if planted  in camphor pot, fertilized with aromatic herbs and sprinkled with rose water, still retains its stinking smell.

The actual text talks about planting garlic in karpooram, fertilizing it with kasturi, and sprinkling it with panineer... Can that make any difference to the overpowering stench of the bulb? Surely not!

A parallel would be the story of the blue fox. A fox falls into a tub of blue and emerges as a blue fox. All the animals of the forest are intimidated by the fox, and he eventually becomes their king. But as luck would have it, one full moon night, when all the other foxes started howling, the blue fox could not help howling along with the other. Its true colors revealed, the fox was forced to run for its life. The essence of the text is that a leopard cannot hide its spots. Truth will always out!

7. A student's knowledge comes from 1/4 Teacher, 1/4 Self, 1/4 Peers, 1/4 Time.

A student obtains a quarter of his knowledge from his guru, a quarter from his own self, another  quarter from his classmates and the last quarter over time.

Learning has several dimensions. Knowledge can be imbibed from several quarters. One's parents, teachers, friends, the society itself, the nature outside - all these elements contribute to the teaching of an individual.

One learns foremost from the guru or teacher. The specialized knowledge that an expert can provide cannot be matched by any other source. In traditional Indian way of schooling, the student lodges with the Guru and his family for the duration of his studies. This enables the teacher to inculcate good habits, attitudes and learning to his ward.

Students discussing lessons is a common sight in school corridors during exam time. In addition, friends are often privy to problems plaguing young minds, more often so than the parents concerned. In one's life, one's peers and friends highly influence one's experiences and attitudes.

It is very common to blame circumstances for one's shortcomings. But it is well to remember that many who come from humble beginnings have managed to overcome their difficulties and rise to glorious heights. Nature of an individual can triumph over the debilitating effects of nurture and circumstances. It is always the personal convictions of the person that determine his/her future.

Time is not only the greatest healer; time is the greatest teacher too. It is one's experiences in life over time which teaches lessons that truly sink in.

I wholeheartedly agree!






You can find a copy of Neethisaaram here at http://en.sreyas.in/malayalam-spiritual-ebooks-download. Be warned, the text is in Malayalam though.

Sandhyanaamam - Hindu Evening Prayers

New!!!

This work was always meant to be a work in  progress, too. As my little girl has grown, so have the sandhya naamams that she is capable of reciting. This is the updated version of the sandhyanamam that she chants these days. If your child is yet a little toddler, please ignore the additions made and stick to the simpler shlokas. Feel free to add the newer ones as they get older...

Sandhyanaamam is an integral part of the daily ritual of the Hindu households of Kerala. In earlier days, every family had one or two grandparents, who were well versed in these matters and they encouraged, even insisted, that the youngsters follow these daily routines without fail. However nowadays, with most of the families going nuclear and parents too exhausted by evening, these routines are gradually being ignored and hence forgotten.

The shastras say that Eeshwara-naama-japam whether done knowingly or unknowingly, with knowledge or without it, correctly or incorrectly, will achieve the desired results when performed with true devotion and complete faith. Regular naama japam brings about peace and contentment to all devotees. 

It is believed that at dusk, one should bathe and purify oneself and light the nilavilakku. Clear all disturbing thoughts from one's mind before beginning Eeshwara-naama-japam. It is considered that no other task undertaken during this hour will be fulfilled; hence no food must be partaken during this time, and sleeping is similarly forbidden as is every other activity. 

There is a method to chanting the evening prayers correctly. This article is all about the manner, contents and correct rendering of sandhyanaamam. 

Lighting the lamp:

Children must wash their hands and feet to purify themselves before lighting the nilavilakku. It is customary to entwine two wicks (thiri / തിരി ) together such that it forms a single flame (deepam / ദീപം ). Ghee or sesame oil ( നല്ലെണ്ണ ) may be used in the nilavilakku.

In the morning, the nilavilakku should have a single deepam towards the east. In the evening, the nilavilakku should ideally have two lighted flames, one pointing to the east and one to the west. The directions of the wick are presumed to offer the following benefits:

• Eastern wick - eliminates all unhappiness 
• Western wick - eliminates debt and grahakopam
• Northern wick - brings good fortune and knowledge

The shastras prohibit lighting wicks towards the south.

In case there are more than two wicks, the lighting should begin from the northern side and continue clockwise. We should return in the same direction without completing the circle. Then the wick used to light the nilavilakku should be extinguished. 

The following shloka may be recited while lighting the lamp...
ദീപം ജ്യോതി: പരബ്രഹ്മ ദീപോജ്യോതിർ ജനാർദ്ദന 

ദീപോ ഹരതുമേ പാപം സന്ധ്യാദീപം നമോസ്തുതേ 

दीपं ज्योति: परब्रह्मा दीपोज्योतिर जनार्धना 

दीपो हरतुमे पापं संध्यदीपं नमोस्तुते |

Deepam Jyoti Parabrahma Deepojyotir Janardhana
Deepo Harathume Paapam Sandhyadeepam Namostuthe
Meaning:
I fold my hands before the light that brings prosperity, auspiciousness, good health, abundance of wealth and destruction of the enemy's intellect.
New! 
I have now added the following shloka to this:
ശുഭം കരോതി കല്യാണം ആരോഗ്യം ധനസമ്പദാ 

ശത്രു ബുദ്ധി വിനാശായ ദീപ ജ്യോതിർ നമോസ്തുതേ 

शुभं करोति कल्याणं आरोग्यं धनसंपदा

शत्रु बुधि विनाशाय दीपज्योतिर नंमोस्तुते |

Shubham Karothi Kalyaanam Aarogyam Dhana Sampatha
Shatrubudhi Vinaashaaya Deepajyotir Namostuthe

Sandhya Naamam:

Sandhyanaamam always begins by obeisance with a prayer to the guru...
ഗുരൂർബ്രഹ്മ ഗുരൂർവിഷ്ണു  ഗുരൂർദേവൊ മഹേശ്വര:

ഗുരു സാക്ഷാൽ പരബ്രഹ്മ തസ്മൈ ശ്രീ ഗുരവേ നമ:

गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णु गुरूर्देवो महेश्वरः 

गुरुसाक्षाल परःब्रह्म तस्मै श्री गुरवे नमः ||

Gururbrahma Gururvishnu Gururdevo Maheshvarah

Gurusaakshaal Parahbrahma Tasmai Shree Gurave Namah

Meaning:

The Guru is Brahma, the Guru is Vishnu, the Guru Deva is Maheswara (Shiva). The Guru is Verily the Para-Brahman (Supreme Brahman); Salutations to that Guru.

This is to be followed by a declaration that the Supreme being means everything to oneself...
ത്വമേവ മാതാ ച പിതാ ത്വമേവ, ത്വമേവ ബന്ദൂശ്ച്ച സഖാ ത്വമേവ 
ത്വമേവ വിദ്യാ ദ്രവിണം ത്വമേവ, ത്വമേവ സർവ്വം മമ ദേവ ദേവ 
त्वमेव माता च पिता त्वमेव, त्वमेव बन्ढूश्चा सखा त्वमेव 

त्वमेव विध्या द्रविणं त्वमेव, त्वमेव सर्वं मम देव देव ||

Tvameva Maataa Cha Pitaa Tvameva, Tvameva Bandhushcha Sakhaa Tvameva 

Tvameva Vidyaa Dravinam Tvameva, Tvameva Sarvam Mama Deva Deva

Meaning:

You truly are my Mother and you truly are my Father. You truly are my relative and you truly are my Friend. You truly are my Knowledge and you truly are my Wealth. You truly are my All, my God of Gods.

This is to be followed by a prayer to Ganapathi, the remover of obstacles...

ഓം ഗം ഗണപതയേ നമ: (21)
എകദന്തം മഹാകായം തപ്തകാഞ്ചന സന്നിഭം 

ലമ്പോദരം വിശാലാക്ഷം വന്ദേഹം ഗണനായകം 

ॐ गम गणपतये नमः || (21)

एकदन्तं महाकायं तप्त काञ्चन सन्निभम 

लम्बोदरं विशालक्षं वन्देहं गणनायकं ||

Om Gam Ganapataye Namah! (21)

Ekadantam Mahaakaayam Taptakaanchana Sannibham

Lambodaram Vishaalaksham Vandeham Gananaayakam

Meaning:

O single tusked Lord, One with a mighty body as if made of molten gold, One with a very large tummy and One with large eyes, I bow down to you, O leader of the Ganaas.
New! 
I had erroneously typed in "Sarvakoti Samaprabha...". The correct word is "Sooryakoti Samaprabha...".
വക്രതുണ്ട മഹാകായ സൂര്യകോട്ടി സമപ്രഭ 

നിർവിഘ്നം കുരുമേ ദേവ സർവ കാര്യേഷു സർവദ 

वक्रतुण्ड महाकाय सूर्यकोटि समप्रभ 

निर्विघ्नं कुरुमे देव सर्व कार्येषु सर्वदा ||

Vakratunda Mahakaya, Sooryakoti Samaprabha

Nirvighnam Kurumey Deva, Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada

Meaning: 

O Lord with curved trunk and massive appearance whose splendor is equal to that of a billion suns. Please bless me such that I do not face any obstacles in any of my endeavors, anytime.

New! 

I had previously added this shloka as a Vishnu shloka. I was wrong. Even though the word Vishnu appears in these lines, they refer to Ganesha as a protector. Oops!!

ശുക്ലാം ഭരധരം വിഷ്ണും ശശിവർണം ചതുർഭുജം 

പ്രസന്ന വദനം ധ്യായേത് സർവ വിഘ്നോപ ശാന്തയേ 

शुक्लां भरधरं विष्णुं शशिवर्णं चतुर्भुजं 

प्रसन्न वदनं ध्यायेत् सर्व विघ्नोप शान्तये ||

Shuklaam Bharadharam Vishnum Shashivarnam Chaturbhujam

Prasanna Vadanam Dhyaayeth Sarva Vighnopa Shaantaye

Meaning:

I meditate on the glorious protector (Here Ganesha is referred to as Vishnu - the one who protects), clad in sparkling white robes, omnipresent, endowed with four arms and a benign smiling face to ward off all impediments.

The goddess of knowledge, Goddess Saraswati is then remembered...
സരസ്വതി നമസ്തുഭ്യം വരദേ കാമരൂപിണി 

വിദ്യാരംഭം കരിഷ്യാമി സിദ്ധിർ ഭവതുമേ സദാ 

सरस्वती नमस्तुभ्यं वरदे कामरूपिणी 

विध्यारंभं करिष्यामि सिद्धिर्भवतुमे सदा ||

Saraswati Namastubhyam Varade Kaamroopini

Vidyaarambham Karishyaami Siddhirbhavathume Sadaa

Meaning:

O Saraswati, salutations for you, O Giver of boons, O Giver of form to desire, 

I am going to start studying; May success be mine, always.

New! 
I have now added the remainder of the shlokas too.
പത്മപത്ര  വിശാലാക്ഷി പത്മകേസര വർണിനി 
നിത്യം പത്മാലയാ ദേവി സാമാം പാദു സരസ്വതി 
അപർണാം നാമരൂപേണ ത്രിവർണാം പ്രണവാത്മികാം 

ലിപ്യാത്മനൈക പഞ്ചാശധ്യർണാം   വന്ദേ സരസ്വതി

മുദ്രാപുസ്തക ഹസ്താഭ്യാം ഭദ്രാസന ഹൃദിസ്ഥിതേ

പുരസ്സതേ  സദാ ദേവി സരസ്വതി നമോസ്തുതേ 

വന്ദേ സരസ്വതീം ദേവീം ഭുവനത്രയമാതരം 

യൽ പ്രസാദാധ്രിതേ നിത്യം ജിഹ്വാന പരിവർത്തതേ 

पत्मपत्र विशालाक्षि पत्मकेसर वर्णिनी 

नित्यं पत्मालया देवी सा मां पादु सरस्वती |

अपर्णां नामरूपेण त्रिवर्णां प्राणवात्मिकां 

लिप्यात्मनैक पञ्चाशद्यर्णां वन्दे सरस्वती ||

मुद्रापुस्तक हस्ताभ्यां भद्रासन ह्रिदिस्थिते 

पुरस्सते सदा देवी सरस्वती नमोस्तुते |

वन्दे सरस्वतीम् देवीम् भुवनत्रय मातरं 

यल् प्रसादाद्रिदे नित्यं जिह्वान परिवर्तते ||

Padmapatra Vishaalaskhi Padmakesara Varnini
Nithyam Padmalaya Devi Samaam Paadu Saraswati
Aparnaam Naamaroopena Trivarnaam Pranavaatmikaam
Lipyatmanaika Panchaashadyarnam Vande Saraswati
Mudraapustaka Hastaabhyam Bhadraasana Hridisthithe
Purassathe Sadaa Devi Saraswati Namostute
Vande Saraswatim Devim Bhuvanatraya Maataram
Yal Prasaadadride Nithyam Jihwana Parivartate

Next we pray to Subramanya Swami…
ഷടാനനം ചന്ദന ലേപിതാംഗം  മഹോരസം ദിവ്യ മയൂരവാഹനം 

രുദ്രസ്യ സൂനം സുരലോക നാഥം ബ്രഹ്മണ്യ ദേവം ശരണം പ്രപദ്യേ 

षडाननं चन्दन लेपिताङ्गं महोरसं दिव्य मयूरवाहनं 

रुद्रस्य सूनं सुरलोक नाधं ब्रह्मण्य ब्रह्मण्य देवं शरणं प्रपध्ये ||

Shadananam Chandana lepithangam, Mahorasam Divya mayoora vahanam,

Rudrasya soonum Suraloka nadham, Brahmanya devam sharanam prapadye
Meaning:

O God, who has six faces, whose body is coated with sandalwood, Who is the behind everything, who rides on the holy peacock, Who is the son of Lord Shiva, And who is the leader of all Suras, Who is God of the Devas. I seek refuge in you.

This is followed by a prayer to the Kaliyugavaradan and Bhakthavalsalan, Lord Dharmashaastaavu…

ഭൂതനാഥ സദാനന്ദ സർവഭൂത ദയാപര 

രക്ഷ രക്ഷ മഹാബാഹോ ശാസ്ത്രേ തുഭ്യം നമോ നമ 

भूतनाध सदानन्द सर्वभूत दयापरः 

रक्ष रक्ष महाबाहो शास्त्रे तुभ्यं नमो नमः ||

Bhootanaadha Sadaananda Sarvabhoota Dayaapara

Raksha Raksha Mahaabaaho Shaastre Tubhyam Namoh Namah

Meaning:

Salutations and salutations to thee Sastha, who is the lord of all beings, who is perennially ever happy, who shows mercy towards all beings, and I pray, protect me great hero.

We salute Lord Shiva....
ഓം നമ ശിവായ:

ശിവം ശിവകരം ശാന്തം ശിവാത്മാനം ശിവോത്തമം 

ശിവമാർഗ പ്രണേതാരം പ്രണതോസ്മി സദാശിവം 

ॐ नमः शिवायः ||

शिवं शिवकरं शान्तं शिवात्मानं शिवोत्तमं 

शिवमार्ग प्रणेतारं प्रणतोस्मि सदाशिवं ||

Om Namah Shivayah!

Shivam Shivakaram Shaantam Shivaatmaanam Shivottamam

Shiva Maarga Pranetaaram Pranatosmi Sadaashivam

Meaning:

Salutations to the God who is peaceful, Who lives in peace, Who creates peace, Who is peace itself,

Who is the soul of peace, Who is greatest peace, And who shows the path of Peace.

The omnipotent Mrityunjaya Mantra is then recited…

ഓം ത്രയംബകം യജാമഹേ സുഗന്ധിം പുഷ്ടിവർധനം 

ഉരുവാരുകമിവ ബന്ധനാൻ മൃതോർ മുക്ഷീയമാമൃതാത് 

ॐ त्रयंबकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् 

उर्वारुकमिव भन्दनान म्र्त्योमुक्षीयमाम्रतात ||

Om Trayambakam Yajaamahe Sungandhim Pushtivardhanam

Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaan Mrtyormuksheeya Maamrtaat 

Meaning:

I worship the Three-eyed One (Shiva), who is fragrant and who nourishes all beings; please liberate me from (the fear of) death and lead me towards immortality, even as a ripe cucumber is severed from the bondage of the creeper.
New! 
ശങ്കരായ ശങ്കരായ ശങ്കരായ മംഗളം 

ശങ്കരീമനോഹരായ ശാശ്വതായ മംഗളം 

സുന്ദരേശ മംഗളം സനാതനായ മംഗളം 

ചിന്മയായ സന്മയായ തന്മയായ മംഗളം 

അനന്തരൂപ മംഗളം ചിരന്തനായ മംഗളം 

നിരഞ്ജനായ മംഗളം പുരന്ജനായ മംഗളം 

അചഞ്ചലായ മംഗളം അകിഞ്ചനായ മംഗളം 

ജഗത്ശിവായ മംഗളം നമ:ശിവായ മംഗളം 

शंकराय शंकराय शंकराय मंगलं

शंकरी मनोहराय शाश्वताय मंगलं

सुन्दरेश मंगलं सनातनाय मंगलं

चिन्मयाय सन्मयाय तन्मयाय मंगलं

अनंतरूपा मंगलं चिरन्तनाय मंगलं

निरंजनाय मंगलं पुरंजनाया मंगलं

अचंचालाय मंगलं अकिंचनाय मंगलं

जगत शिवाय मंगलं नमः शिवाय मंगलं

Shankaraaya Shankaraaya Shankaraaya Mangalam
Shankaree Manoharaaya Shashwataaya Mangalam
Sundaresha Mangalam Sanaathanaaya Mangalam
Chinmayaaya Sanmayaaya Thanmayaaya Mangalam
Anantharoopa Mangalam Chiranthanaaya Mangalam
Niranjanaaya Mangalam Puranjanaaya Mangalam
Achanchalaaya Mangalam Akinchanaaya Mangalam
Jagatshivaaya Mangalam Namah Shivaaya Mangalam

A prayer to Lord Shiva is followed up with a prayer to Devi Parvathi....
സർവ മംഗള മംഗല്യേ ശിവേ സർവാർഥ സാധികേ 

ശരണ്യേ ത്രയംബകേ ഗൌരി നാരായണീ നമോസ്തുതേ 

सर्वमङ्गल मङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थ साधिके

शरण्ये त्रयंबके गौरी नारायणी नमोस्तुते ||

Sarvamangala Mangalye Shive Sarvaartha Saadhike

Sharanye Trayambake Gauri Naarayanee Namostute

Meaning:

The one who is the auspiciousness of all that is auspicious, the consort of Siva, who is the means of accomplishing all desires, who is the refuge of all, the three eyed one,the fair complexioned one, Salutations to you, O Narayani.

New! 
I am not including the Devanagiri script because I think this is a Malayalam mantra...
അമ്മേ നാരായണ ദേവി നാരായണ ലക്ഷ്മി നാരായണ ഭദ്രേ നാരായണ (3)
Amme Narayana Devi Narayana Lakshmi Narayana Bhadre Narayana (3)

Next we salute the parents of the Prithvi - Shiva and Shakthi, together...
കർപൂരഗൗരം കരുണാവതാരം സംസാരസാരം ഭുജഗേന്ദ്രഹാരം 

സദാ വസന്തം ഹൃദയാരവിന്ദെ ഭവം ഭവാനി സഹിതം നവാമി 

कर्पूरगौरं करुणावतारं संसारसारं भुजगेन्द्रहारं 

सदा वसन्तं हृदयारविन्दे भवं भवानि सहितं नवामि ||

Karpoora Gauram Karunaavathaaram, Samsaarasaaram Bhujagendrahaaram

Sadaa Vasantam Hridayaravinde, Bhavam Bhavaani Shahitam Navaami

Meaning:

Pure white like camphor, an incarnation of compassion, the essence of worldly existence, whose garland is the King of Serpents, always dwelling inside the lotus of the Heart. I bow to Shiva and Shakti together.

A prayer to Lord Vishnu, the Preserver follows....
ഓം നമോ നാരായണായ 

ॐ नमोः नारायणायः ||
Om Namoh Naraayanaayah!

ശാന്താകാരം ഭുജഗശയനം പത്മനാഭം സുരേശം 

വിശ്വാധാരം ഗഗനസദ്രിശം  മേഘവർണം ശുഭാംഗം 

ലക്ഷ്മീകാന്തം കമലനയനം യോഗി ഹ്രിദ്യാനഗമ്യം 

വന്ദേ വിഷ്ണും ഭവഭയഹരം സർവ ലോകൈക നാഥം 

शान्ताकारं भुजगशयनं पत्मनाभं सुरेशं 

विश्वाधारम् गगनसदृशं मेघवर्णं शुभाङ्गम् ||

लक्ष्मीकान्तं कमलनयनं योगि हृद्द्यानगम्यं 

वन्दे विष्णुं भव भयहरं सर्वलोकैक नाधं ||

Shaantaakaaram Bhujagashayanam Patmanaabham Suresham

Vishwaadhaaram Gaganasadhrisham Megha varnam Shubangam

Lakshmeekaantam Kamala Nayanam Yogi Hriddyaana Gamyam

Vande Vishnum Bhava Bhayaharam Sarva Lokaika Naadham

Meaning: 

I bow before the God Vishnu, Who is personification of peace, Who sleeps on his folded arms, Who has a lotus on his belly, Who is the God of gods, Who is the basis of earth, Who is similar to the sky, Who is of the color of the cloud, Who has beautiful limbs, Who is the consort of Lakshmi, Who has lotus like eyes, Who is seen by saints through thought, Who kills all worries and fears, And who is the lord of all the worlds.

This is to be followed by a prayer to Goddess Lakshmi, the companion of Lord Vishnu, to bestow good fortunes upon her devotee...
നമസ്തേസ്തു മഹാമായേ ശ്രീ പീഡെ സുരപൂജിതേ 

ശങ്ഖച്ചക്ര ഗദാഹസ്തേ മഹാലക്ഷ്മീ നമോസ്തുതേ 

नमस्तेस्तु महामाये श्रीपीढे सुरपूजिते 

शङ्खचक्र गदाहस्ते महालक्ष्मी नमोस्तुते ||

Namastestu Mahaamaaye Shreepeedhe Surapoojite

Shankhachakra Gadaahaste Mahaalakshmee Namostute

Meaning:

I salute the Mahamaya, the abode of fortune who is worshiped by the Devas, the wielder of conch, disc and mace. I salute thee, Goddess Mahalakshmi.

To perform one’s duties in this world with courage and conviction, we pray to Lord Krishna…
ഓം നമോ ഭഗവതേ വാസുദേവായ 

കൃഷ്ണായ വാസുദേവായ ദേവകീ നന്ദനായ ച 

നന്ദഗോപ കുമാരായ ഗോവിന്ദായ നമോ നമ 

ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवायः ||

कृष्णाय वासुदेवाय देवकी नन्दनायच 

नन्दगोप कुमाराय गोविन्दाय नमो नमः ||

Om Namo Bhagavate Vaasudevaaya!

Krishnaaya Vaasudevaaya Devaki Nandanaayacha

Nandagopa Kumaaraaya Govindaaya Namo Namah

Meaning:

For Krishna, for the son of Vasudeva, for the [source of] joy of Devaki, for the boy of the cowherd [chief] Nanda, for the benefactor of cattle (cows), Salutations!
New! 
നന്ദനം വസുദേവസ്യ നന്ദഗോപസ്യ നന്ദനം 

യശോദാനന്ദനം വന്ദേ! ദേവകീനന്ദനം സദാ 

नन्दनं वसुदेवस्य नन्दगोपस्य नन्दनं

यशोदानन्दनं वन्दे! देवकीनन्दनं सदा |

Nandanam Vaasudevasya Nandagopasya Nandanam
Yashodaanandanam Vande! Devakeenandanam Sadaa

This is to be followed by a prayer to Lord Rama, the Purushottaman....
രാമായ രാമ ഭദ്രായ രാമചന്ദ്രായ വേധസേ 

രഘുനാധായ നാഥായ സീതായ പതയേ നമ 

रामाय रामभद्राय रामचन्द्राय वेधसे 

रघुनाधाय नाधाय सीतायपतये नमः ||

Raamaaya Raama Bhadraaya Raamachandraaya Vedhase

Raghunaadhaaya Naadhaaya Seetaaya Pataye Namah

Meaning:

To Rama, Ramabhadra, Ramachandra, Raghunatha, the Lord, the consort of Sita, our salutations! 
രാമ രാമ രാമ രാമ രാമ രാമ പാഹിമാം 

രാമ കൃഷ്ണ വാസുദേവ രാമ രാമ പാഹിമാം 

ജാനകി മനോഹരാ മുകുന്ദ രാമ പാഹിമാം 

രാമ രാമ രാമ രാമ രാമ രാമ പാഹിമാം 

राम राम राम राम राम राम पाहिमाम 

राम कृष्ण वासुदेव राम राम पाहिमाम |

जानकी मनोहरा मुकुन्द राम पाहिमाम 

राम राम राम राम राम राम पाहिमाम ||

Raama Raama Raama Raama Raama Raama Paahimaam
Raama Krishna Vaasudeva Raama Raama Paahimaam
Jaanakee Manohara Mukunda Raama Paahimaam
Raama Raama Raama Raama Raama Raama Paahimaam
ശ്രീ രാമ രാമ രാമേതി രമേ രാമേ മനോരമേ 

സഹസ്രനാമ തത് തുല്യം രാമ നാമ വരാനനെ 

श्री राम राम रामेति रमे रामे मनोरमे 

सहस्र नाम तत्तुल्यं राम नाम वरानने ||

Sree Rama Rama Rameti Rame Raame Manorame

Sahasra Naama Tat Tulyam Rama Naama Varanane

Meaning:

Lord Shiva tells Devi Parvathi: To meditate upon Sri Ram as Sri Rama Rama Rama, the thrice recital of Rama's name is equal to recitation of the thousand names of Lord Vishnu. 

Whenever Lord Rama is remembered, Lord Hanuman is also to be propitiated...
മനോജവം മാരുതതുല്യവേഗം ജിതെന്ദ്രീയം ബുദ്ധിമതാം വരിഷ്ടം 

വാതത്മജം വാനരയൂധമുഖ്യം ശ്രീരാമദൂതം ശരണം പ്രപദ്യേ 

मनोजवं मारुततुल्यवेगं जितेन्द्रीयं बुधिमतां वरिष्टं 

वातत्मजं वानरयूतमुख्यं श्री रामदूतं शरणं प्रपध्ये ||

Manojavam Maarutatulyavegam Jitendriyam Budhi-mataam Varishtam

Vaatatmajam Vaanara-yoota-mukhyam Sri Ramadootam Sharanam Prapadye

Meaning:

I surrender to Hanuman, the messenger of Lord Rama, whose speed is as swift as the mind and as swift as the wind, who has controlled his sense organs and is the most intelligent among the intelligent ones; who is the son of Vayu and the chief of the army of monkeys.

We pray to the Nagas...
അനന്തം വാസുകിം ശേഷം പത്മനാഭം ച കംബലം 

സശംഖപാലം ധർതരാഷ്ട്രം  തക്ഷകം കാളിയം തഥാ 

ഏതാനി നവ നാമാനി നാഗാനാം ച  മഹാത്മനം 
സായംകാലേ പതേ നിത്യം പ്രാത:കാലേ വിശേഷത 

തസ്മൈ വിഷഭയം നാസ്തി സർവത്ര വിജയീ ഭവേത് 

अनन्तं वासुकिं शेषं पद्मनाभं च कम्बलं 

सशनखपालम धर्ताराष्ट्रम तक्षकं कालियं तथा 

एतानि नव नामानि नागानं च महत्मनम 
सायंकाले पथेनित्यम प्रातः काले विशेषत:

तस्मै विषभयं नास्ति सर्वत्र विजयी भवेत ||

Anantham Vasukim Shesham Padmanaabham Cha Kambalam
Sashankhapaalam Dhartarashtram Takshakam Kaaliyam Thadha
Ethaani Nava Naamaani Nagaanam Cha Mahaatmanam
Saayamkaale Pathenityam Praatahkale Viseshataha
Tasmai Vishabhayam Naasthi Sarvatra Vijayee Bhaveth

We pray for universal peace with the Shanti Mantras from Vedas and Upanishads...
ഓം അസതോമ സദ്‌ഗമയാ തമസോമാ ജ്യോതിർഗമയാ 

മ്ര്ത്യോമാ അമൃതം ഗമയാ ഓം ശാന്തി ശാന്തി ശാന്തി:

ॐ असतोमा सद्गमया तमसोमा ज्योतिर्गमया 

मृत्योमा अमृतं गमया ॐ शान्ति शान्ति शान्तिः ||

Om Asatomaa Sadgamayaa, Taamasomaa Jyotirgamayaa

Mrityomaa Amrutam Gamayaa, Om Shanti Shanti Shantih

Meaning:

Om! Lead us from unreality (of transitory existence) to the reality (of self). Lead us from the darkness (of ignorance) to the light (of spiritual knowledge). Lead us from the fear of death to the knowledge of immortality. Om Peace, Peace, Peace.
ഓം പൂർണമദ: പൂർണമിദം പൂർണാത്പ്പൂർണം ഉദച്യതേ 

പൂർണശ്യ പൂർണമാദായ പൂർണമേവ വശിഷ്യതെ 

ഓം ശാന്തി ശാന്തി ശാന്തി:

ॐ पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदं पूर्णात्पूर्णं उदच्यते 

पूर्णश्य पूर्णमादाय पूर्णमेव वशिष्यते  ||

ॐ शान्ति शान्ति शान्तिः ||

Om Poornamadah Poornamidam Poornaatpoornam Udachyate

Poornashya Poornamaadaaya Poornameva Vashishyate

Om Shanti Shanti Shantih
Meaning:

Om! That is full, this also is full; from fullness comes that fullness. Taking fullness from fullness, fullness indeed remains. Om Peace, Peace, Peace.
ഓം സഹനാവവതു സഹനൗ ഭുനക്തു സഹ വീര്യം കരവാവഹൈ 

തേജസ്വിനാവധീ നമസ്തു മാ വിധവിശാവഹൈ 

ഓം ശാന്തി ശാന്തി ശാന്തി:

ॐ सहनाववतु सहनौभुनक्तु सहवीर्यं करवावहै

तेजस्विनावधी तमस्तु माविध्विशावहै 

ॐ शान्ति शान्ति शान्तिः ||

Om Saha Navavatu Saha Nau Bhunaktu  Saha Veeryam Karavavahai

Tejasvi Navadhee Tamastu Maa Vidhvishaavahai

Om Shanti Shanti Shantih 

Meaning:

Om! May God protect us both (the Teacher and the Student). May God nourish us both. May we work together with energy and vigor  May our study be enlightening, not giving rise to hostility. Om, Peace, Peace, Peace.
ഓം സർവേ ഭവന്തു സുഖിന: സർവേ സന്തു നിരാമയ:

സർവേ ഭദ്രാണി പശ്യന്തു മാ കശ്ചിദ് ദുഃഖഭാഗ്ഭവേത് 

ഓം ശാന്തി ശാന്തി ശാന്തി:

ॐ सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः 

सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु मा कश्चिद् दुःखभाग्भवेत ||

ॐ शान्ति शान्ति शान्तिः ||

Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah

Sarve Santu Niraamayaah

Sarve Bhadraanni Pashyantu

Maa Kashchid Duhkhabhaag Bhavet

Om Shanti Shanti Shantih

Meaning:

Om! May all become happy. May all be free from illness. May all see what is auspicious. May no one suffer. Om Peace, Peace, Peace.
ഓം സർവേശാം സ്വസ്തിർഭവതു 

സർവേശാം ശാന്തിർഭവതു 

സർവേശാം പൂർണംഭവതു 

സർവേശാം മംഗളം ഭവതു 

ഓം ശാന്തി ശാന്തി ശാന്തി:

ॐ सर्वेशां स्वस्तिर्भवतु सर्वेशां शान्तिर्भवतु 

सर्वेशां पूर्णंभवतु सर्वेशां मन्गलंभवतु ||

ॐ शान्ति शान्ति शान्तिः ||

Om Sarveshaam Svastirbhavatu

Sarveshaam Shaantirbhavatu 

Sarveshaam Poornambhavatu

Sarveshaam Mangalambhavatu 

Om Shanti Shanti Saantih

Meaning:

May there be well-being in all. May there be peace in all. May there be fulfillment in all. May there be auspiciousness in all. Om Peace, Peace, Peace.

We then recite the Samarpana manthra...
കായേന വാചാ മനസെന്ദ്രിയൈർവ 

ബുദ്ധ്യാത്മനാ വാ പ്രകൃതെ സ്വഭാവാത് 

കരോമി യദ്യത് സകലം പരസ്മൈ 

നാരായണയേതി സമർപയാമി 

कायेनवाचा मनसेन्द्रियैर्वा बुध्यात्मना वा प्रकृते स्वभावात् 

करोमि यद्यत सकलं परस्मै नारायण येति समर्पयामि |

Kaayenavaacha Manasendriyairva
Budhyathmana Vaa Prakruthe Swabhavat
Karomi Yadyat Sakalam Parasmai
Narayana Yethi Samarpayaami
Meaning:
I dedicate to Narayana all actions that I do (in my reach) and everything beyond me (out of my reach or actions by us that happen out of our control).

We conclude with the following shloka to beg forgiveness for all lapses…
ഹരേ രാമ ഹരേ രാമ രാമ രാമ ഹരേ ഹരേ 

ഹരേ കൃഷ്ണ ഹരേ കൃഷ്ണ കൃഷ്ണ കൃഷ്ണ ഹരേ ഹരേ 

हरे राम हरे राम राम राम हरे हरे 

हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण कृष्ण कृष्ण हरे हरे ||

Hare Raama Hare Raama Raama Raama Hare Hare!

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare!

Meaning:

This is a prayer to God for taking away all the sorrows, pains and shortcomings.

Extinguishing the nilavilakku

Never blow on the nilavilakku to extinguish the flame. Pull the wick back into the oil or pour a little oil over the wick or cover with a tulasi leaf to extinguish it. According to tradition, the flame should not smoke and self-extinguish in the nilavilakku. 



Follow this link to get the Malayalam text for Sandhyanaamam.

See http://randomwritez.blogspot.in/2013/05/sree-krishna-stuthi-sandhyanaamam-contd.html for Sree Krishna Stutis, which I usually follow up with.

This article is a summary review inspired by the book titled Sandhyanaamam Japikkendathengane by Sri. Radhakrishnan Pottakkal. The shloka selections have been slightly modified in some cases.

I am highly indebted to the following sites for the meanings of the mantras and shlokas without which this article would have been quite incomplete: Green Message, Vedanta Spiritual Library