The Kanakadhara Stotra () is a Hindu hymn (stotram) attributed by tradition to Adi Shankara.
Etymology means "the stream () of gold ()", and the hymn is called by this name since legend has it that when Adi Shankara recited it, the goddess Lakshmi showered a stream of gold within the hut of his poor Brahmana benefactor.
Description
The hymn is attributed to Adi Shankara. According to tradition, as a young boy, Adi Shankara was out seeking alms to prepare his lunch and happened upon the doorstep of a very poor Brahmana woman. Having nothing edible in her home, the lady frantically searched her house, only to find a single gooseberry fruit, which she then offered to Shankara. Shankara was so moved by the incredible selflessness of this woman that he burst forth into poetry and sang 22 stanzas in praise of the goddess Lakshmi. Pleased by the beauty of the hymn, the goddess instantly showered the lady's house with gooseberries made of pure gold.
Hymn The first hymn of the Kanakadhara Stotra is as follows:
See also
Ashtalakshmi Stotra Sri Stuti Sri Sukta
References
External links Kanakadhara Storam, translated by P. R. Ramachander Learn Sri Kanakadhara Stotram Where to read the Kankdhara Stotra