Annapurna Stotram

Annapurna is the goddess of food and nourishment. She is a form of Parvati, the inseparable shakti of Lord Shiva. The first part of the goddess’s name, anna, is translated as “food” and “grains,” and the final part, purna, means “full” or “complete.” Annapurna Devi holds in one hand a jeweled bowl full of grains and in the other a golden ladle, both symbolizing the abundant nourishment she gives to all. She is the Mother Goddess, the sustainer of all life.

The Annapurna Stotram is an exquisite hymn in praise of this goddess. The hymn is said to have been written by Adi Shankaracharya, a greatly respected philosopher and theologian who lived in India from the late eighth century to the early ninth century and who consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta.