Did you know that one of the most powerful hymns praising Lord Shiva was written by the Asura or demon king Ravana? Even though he was the antagonist of Valmiki’s Ramayana, Ravana was an ardent Shiva devotee. He dedicated his entire soul at the foot of the Lord. There is a profound story behind the creation of Shiv Tandav Stotram that every Shiva devotee must know. In fact, if you learn this great and poetic Stotram by-heart and chant it daily, the benefits that you will receive are boundless. In this article, we will cover everything that you need to know about Shiv Tandav Stotram.



The Origin Story of Shiv Tandav Stotram





In fact, using his humongous strength Ravana even managed to shake Shiva’s heavenly adobe. For a moment, he forgot the basic truth that arrogance and recklessness don’t represent the path of a true devotee. Disturbed by Ravana’s mischief, Lord Shiva pressed the ground with his little toe. As a result, Ravana got trapped underneath Mount Kailasha.



Suddenly a moment of realisation dawned inside the heart of the ten-headed king. With intense devotion Ravana spontaneously created a deeply poetic hymn praising the Lord, requesting to liberate him. This is the origin story of the beautiful Shiv Tandav Stotram. Pleased by the intense faith and dedication of Ravana, Lord Shiva blessed him with great power and gifted him the sacred sword Chandrahasa. However, as we all know, Ravana’s immense pride and underlying ego led to his downfall eventually.



Benefits of Chanting Shiv Tandav Stotram


Shiv Mahima Stotra or Shiva Tandav Stotram contain within it magnificent rhythmic flow. It has been reported that just listening to it in itself can transport our minds into a transcendental state of profound inner peace. Once you begin chanting this high vibration hymn consistently, you will start receiving the blessings the Lord Shiva. Some of the benefits that it provides include increased prosperity, happiness, mental and emotional strength, good fortune and heightened personal power.



If you have guilt in your mind about some past mistakes, Shiv Tandav Stotram can gift you forgiveness. Shiva is the Lord of destruction and the first Yogi in the world. Any obstacle or misfortune can be conquered with his blessing. Additionally, the stotra also removes the impurities or negative energies that we have accumulated from interactions with the outside world. Along with offering spiritual upliftment, this powerful hymn will equip you with the fortitude to overcome anxieties.



Timing for Shiva Tandav Stotram


It has been said that Shiv Tandav Stotram has no exact timings and anyone irrespective of caste, creed or religion can chant it. However, religious experts have given us some recommendations for making the best use of this hymn.



During Eclipse- Even though eclipses are rare in an year, it has been believed that chanting Om Namah Shivaya or Shiva Tandav Stotram during this period is hundred times more impactful. Astrology points out that when we chant, pray or even meditate during this time, the ill effects of our planets will get reduced.



The Brahma Muhurta- Whatever activities that you do during this period will be more effective. Furthermore, for spiritual engagements this time is considered as one of the best. Indeed, Pradosh Kaal or 1 hour before and after sunset is also an apt time for chanting this hymn. Traditionally, Pradosh Kaal or ‘end of the day’ is recommended as the time that is greatly favourable for worshipping Lord Shiva. Ravana also chanted the hymn during this time.



Shiva is one of the most divine and potent deities of Hinduism. There are no greater fortunes in life than receiving his blessings. His love can save you throughout a lifetime. Therefore, become disciplined and start chanting Shiv Tandav Stotram from today onwards.



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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did Ravana worship Shiva?
Ravana worshipped Shiva mainly to achieve protection, power and boons. He used to perform ardent Tapasya to please the Lord.

How many years did Ravana pray for Shiva?
After being trapped under Mount Kailash, Ravana prayed to Shiva for thousands of years. It was during this period he composed and sang Shiv Tandav Stotram.

Who is the greatest devotee of shiva?
Kannappa Nayanar or Kannappa is revered as the ultimate devotee of Lord Shiva. His universally known for his selfless devotion and he famously plucked out his own eyes to replace the bleeding eyes of a Shiva Lingam.