Mahamrityunjaya mantra in pregnancy

The Mahamrityunjaya mantra comes from the Rig Veda (7.59.12). It praises Shiva, the three-eyed Lord, as 'pushti-vardhana', the one who nourishes and helps us grow. Some mothers hesitate because the name contains 'mrityu', death. But 'Mrityunjaya' means 'the one who conquers death', a name for Shiva, and this is not a frightening prayer. It asks to be set free from death's hold, the way a ripe cucumber comes away easily from its vine. Many families chant it for health and courage, and many mothers chant it all through pregnancy.

Chant slowly, 11 or 21 times, and never let yourself get breathless. Before meals, or when you take the tablets your doctor has given you, is a gentle time for it, and the whole family can join in at the table. Some families also see a birth picture here: a ripe fruit leaving the vine when its time is full. That is a reflection, not the classical meaning, but many mothers find it comforting. You don't need a long jaap of 108. If you like using a mala, sit with your back supported and stop whenever you feel tired.

This is a prayer of gratitude and hope. It does not replace your doctor's advice on food, iron and folic acid, or medicines. If anything feels wrong, call your doctor straight away. Read our disclaimer