Garbh Sanskar mantra
Garbha Raksha Ambika Stotram (Garbh Raksha Stotra) for pregnancy
Garbh Raksha Stotra (Garbha Raksha Ambika Stotram) for a safe pregnancy — Devanagari text, transliteration, meaning and how to recite it.
Reviewed by Garbh Katha editorial team · updated
Versions of this stotram differ slightly between families and temples. Follow the text your family uses if you have one.
In Devanagari
वापीतटे वामभागे वामदेवस्य देवस्य देवि स्थिता त्वम् । मान्या वरेण्या वदान्या पाहि गर्भस्थजन्तून् तथा भक्तलोकान् ॥ श्रीमाधवीकाननस्थे गर्भरक्षाम्बिके पाहि भक्तां स्तुवन्तीम् ॥
Transliteration
Vapi-tate vama-bhage vamadevasya devasya devi sthita tvam, manya varenya vadanya pahi garbhastha-jantun tatha bhakta-lokan. Shri-madhavi-kananasthe garbharakshambike pahi bhaktam stuvantim.
Meaning
O Devi, you who stand by the sacred tank at the left side of Lord Vamadeva (Shiva) — honoured, most worthy, most generous — protect the little ones in the womb and all your devotees. O Garbharakshambika, mother who protects the womb, dwelling in the grove of madhavi creepers, protect this devotee who sings your praise.
The Garbha Raksha Ambika Stotram is a Sanskrit hymn to Garbharakshambika, the goddess of the Thirukarugavur temple in Tamil Nadu, revered as the protector of pregnant women and unborn babies. Each verse ends with the refrain asking her to protect the mother who sings. Wording varies slightly between family and temple versions; we show the opening verse and refrain.
When and how to chant in pregnancy
Many mothers recite it daily from early pregnancy, often in the morning after a bath or before the evening story. Reciting the refrain alone, slowly, is a complete practice on tired days. Sit comfortably, keep your voice soft, and let the exhale be long. Comfort matters more than the count — stop if you feel breathless.
Garbha Raksha Ambika Stotram (Garbh Raksha Stotra): common questions
What is the Garbh Raksha Stotra?
A hymn to Garbharakshambika, 'the mother who protects the womb', worshipped at Thirukarugavur in Tamil Nadu. It is recited as a prayer for a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby.
When should I start reciting the Garbh Raksha Stotra?
Families often begin as soon as the pregnancy is confirmed and continue through birth. There is no strict rule — begin when it feels right for you.
Does reciting it replace medical care?
No. It is a spiritual practice that many mothers find calming. Keep all your antenatal appointments and call your doctor about any concern.
Related reading
Stories to pair with it
Mantras by purpose
More mantras
Meanings are general renderings for understanding. Chanting is a spiritual and relaxation practice, not medical treatment or medical advice.