Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण
The Maha Mantra, a sixteen-word chant central to Gaudiya Vaishnavism and the Hare Krishna movement.
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Meaning of Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Known as the Maha Mantra ('great mantra'), this sixteen-word chant repeats the names Krishna, Rama, and Hare. It is central to Gaudiya Vaishnavism and became widely known internationally through the Hare Krishna movement (ISKCON) from the 20th century onward.
How to Chant Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Traditionally chanted in rounds of 108 using a mala, often aloud or in a group (kirtan), though silent or individual chanting is also common. Many practitioners set a daily target number of rounds as part of a regular sadhana (spiritual practice).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Hare' mean in this mantra?
Hare is a vocative form addressing the divine energy (Hara), and appears throughout the mantra alongside the names Krishna and Rama.
Is chanting this mantra silently effective?
Different traditions hold different views on spoken versus silent chanting. This site doesn't take a position on that — use whichever approach fits your practice.