Hindu Devotional Songs
12 aartis · Hindi lyrics & English transliteration · All major deities
Jai Ambe Gauri
जय अम्बे गौरी
Goddess Durga
Om Jai Lakshmi Mata
ॐ जय लक्ष्मी माता
Goddess Lakshmi
Jai Saraswati Mata
जय सरस्वती माता
Goddess Saraswati
Om Jai Kali Mata
ॐ जय काली माता
Goddess Kali
Jai Santoshi Mata
जय संतोषी माता
Santoshi Mata
Aarti (आरती) is one of the sixteen steps of Hindu puja (Shodashopachara). The Sanskrit word comes from Aratrika — “the light that removes darkness”. The flame of the aarti lamp symbolises the removal of ignorance and the presence of divine light (knowledge). The rotating of the lamp in circular motion before the deity is called Nirajana, and the act of cupping the hands over the flame and touching them to one's eyes (Mangal Darshan) transfers the divine blessing to the devotee.
Devotional songs sung during this ritual are also called "aarti". The songs traditionally consist of verses praising the deity's form, qualities, and deeds, accompanied by instruments (dhol, ghanta, shankha). Most temples perform aarti five times daily, following the deity's daily schedule of waking, bathing, meals, and rest.
1. Mangal Aarti (Pratah Aarti)
4:30–5:00 AM
The earliest and most sacred aarti — performed at Brahma Muhurta (the divine hour before sunrise). The deity is awakened with hymns, bells, and the first lamp offering.
2. Shringar Aarti
7:00–8:00 AM
After the deity is bathed and adorned with fresh clothes, flowers, and sandalwood paste. This aarti celebrates the beauty and majesty of the divine.
3. Raj Bhog Aarti
12:00–1:00 PM
The midday aarti offered during the main food prasad offering (Raj Bhog). Often the most elaborate with full instrumental accompaniment.
4. Sandhya Aarti (Dhoop Aarti)
6:00–7:00 PM
Performed at sunset — the transitional time between day and night. Incense (dhoop) is prominently used during this aarti to purify the atmosphere.
5. Shayan Aarti
8:30–9:30 PM
The final aarti of the day. The deity is put to rest with gentle songs and the lamp is offered before the temple doors are closed for the night.
1. Prepare the lamp
Use a ghee/oil lamp (diya) or camphor (kapoor) aarti. Camphor burns completely without residue — symbolising the dissolution of ego.
2. Light incense first
Light agarbatti (incense sticks) to purify the atmosphere. Ring the bell (ghanta) to alert the deity and focus the mind.
3. Rotate the lamp 7 times
Hold the aarti tray (thali) and rotate the flame clockwise in front of the deity in circular motions — 7 complete circles for the face, 4 for the feet, 2 for the entire body.
4. Sing the aarti
Chant the aarti song specific to the deity. Clap hands or play instruments to maintain rhythm and help concentrate devotion.
5. Mangal Darshan
After the song, pass the aarti flame among all present. Cup your palms over the flame and touch both eyes — receiving the divine blessing.
6. Offer prasad
Distribute prasad (consecrated food) to all devotees. Breaking bread together after aarti strengthens community bonds.