Shri Pandurangashtakam Stotram

Shri Pandurangashtakam Stotram is an 8-verse devotional hymn composed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya in praise of Lord Panduranga (Lord Vitthala), worshipped at the sacred pilgrimage city of Pandharpur on the banks of river Bhima in Maharashtra.

The scriptural story behind Lord Vitthala's form is renowned. When Lord Krishna visited His great devotee Pundalika, the saint was busy serving his elderly parents with utmost filial devotion. Pundalika threw a brick (Eet) outside his house for Lord Krishna to stand on while he finished serving his parents. Lord Krishna stood on that brick with hands resting on His hips (Kati Nyasta Hastam), waiting patiently. Touched by Pundalika's devotion, the Lord stayed forever on that brick as Vitthala (literally "One standing on a brick").

Each verse concludes with the sacred refrain: "Para-Brahma-Liṅgaṃ Bhaje Pāṇḍuraṅgam" ("I bow to Lord Panduranga, the visible embodiment of Supreme Brahman!").

According to scriptural tradition and verse 9 of this stotram, daily recitation of Shri Pandurangashtakam grants the following blessings:

• Eradication of All Sins and Samsara Fear: Cleanses past karmas and frees the devotee from worldly anxiety.
• Grant of Filial Piety and Family Harmony: Inspires devotion towards parents and family peace.