In the vast ocean of Sanatan Dharma, Bhakti—devotion—is the gentle current that carries the soul to God. But Bhakti isn’t one-size-fits-all. The beauty of the Navadha Bhakti system lies in its understanding that each soul expresses love for the Divine in a unique way.
Navadha Bhakti means the Nine Forms of Devotion, each offering a different path to reach the same goal: union with God through love. These were described by Lord Rama in the Ramcharitmanas and elaborated in various scriptures, including the Bhagavata Purana.
So, which form of Bhakti is closest to your heart?
1. Shravanam – Listening to the Glories of the Divine
Example: King Parikshit attained liberation by listening to Sage Shukadeva narrate the Bhagavatam.
This is the devotion of the ears—absorbing the stories, qualities, and teachings of God. Listening with faith purifies the heart and inspires remembrance.
✔️ Ideal for: Seekers who enjoy discourses, satsangs, and spiritual podcasts.
2. Kirtanam – Singing or Chanting the Divine Name
Example: Sage Narada attained divine realization through continuous singing of God’s praises.
Chanting bhajans, mantras, or the holy name is a heart-centered path that invokes joy and emotional connection to the Divine.
✔️ Ideal for: Those who love music, rhythm, and group singing.
3. Smaranam – Remembering the Divine Constantly
Example: Prahlada, even as a child, remembered Lord Vishnu in all circumstances—even under threat.
Smaranam is the quiet, internal repetition and awareness of God’s presence. It transforms everyday moments into worship.
✔️ Ideal for: Meditative and inward-focused individuals.
4. Padasevanam – Serving the Lord’s Feet (or in temples)
Example: Lakshmi Devi, the goddess of wealth, serves at the feet of Lord Vishnu.
This form includes offering physical service at temples or symbolic surrender at the Divine feet, expressing humility and devotion.
✔️ Ideal for: Those who find peace in physical acts of service or seva.
5. Archanam – Worship and Ritual Offerings
Example: King Prithu worshipped the Lord through ritual and offerings with great devotion.
Performing daily puja, offering flowers, incense, or food to the deity is a direct expression of love through action.
✔️ Ideal for: Traditionalists who connect deeply with rituals and sacred spaces.
6. Vandanam – Prayers and Prostrations
Example: Akrura, the devotee of Krishna, expressed devotion through heartfelt prayers.
Offering sincere prayers, expressing gratitude, or bowing in surrender are all forms of Vandanam.
✔️ Ideal for: Those who express devotion through words, poetry, and silent prayer.
7. Dasyam – Serving the Divine as a Loyal Servant
Example: Hanuman, the greatest example of selfless service to Lord Rama.
Dasyam is about serving the Lord with loyalty, seeing oneself as an instrument in His hands.
✔️ Ideal for: Doers, helpers, and those who find purpose in service.
8. Sakhyam – Being a Friend to the Divine
Example: Arjuna, who had a deep friendship with Lord Krishna.
This form of Bhakti involves treating the Lord as a close companion, sharing your life, joys, and sorrows.
✔️ Ideal for: Those who seek intimacy and a personal connection with God.
9. Atma Nivedanam – Complete Self-Surrender
Example: Bali Maharaj, who offered everything, including his ego, to Lord Vishnu.
The highest form of devotion—surrendering the self, ego, and all desires to the will of the Divine.
✔️ Ideal for: Mature seekers ready to merge completely with the Divine will.
