Introduction

Narayaneeyam is a revered medieval Sanskrit devotional text composed by Melpathur Narayana Bhattathiri, a distinguished 16th-century poet from Kerala. This work is a poetic summary of the Bhagavata Purana, comprising 1,036 verses divided into 100 chapters called Dasakams. Narayaneeyam beautifully condenses the vast 18,000-verse Bhagavata Purana, focusing mainly on the praise and stories of Lord Krishna, especially in his manifestation as Guruvayurappan, the presiding deity of the Guruvayur temple in Kerala.

Melpathur Narayana Bhattathiri composed Narayaneeyam around 1587 CE. The composition has an inspiring origin story—Bhattathiri, afflicted by paralysis after ritualistically taking upon himself the ailment of his guru to save him, sought divine healing through devotion. Guided by the philosopher Thunjath Ezhuthachan, he began composing 10 verses a day in praise of Lord Krishna, starting with the Matsya (fish) avatar, the first of Vishnu's 10 incarnations. After 100 days of devotional chanting and writing, he was blessed with a vision of the Lord and cured of his paralysis.

Chanting or reciting Narayaneeyam is believed to bring numerous benefits. It is considered a divine tonic promoting longevity, health, and overall well-being. Devotees hold strong faith that the hymn has healing powers for physical and mental ailments, offers protection from danger and negativity, and helps overcome fear. It is also said to bestow fame, wealth, success, and spiritual salvation. Many turn to Narayaneeyam in times of illness or personal difficulties, seeking the grace and blessings of Lord Krishna through heartfelt devotional recitation.

Thus, Narayaneeyam is both a literary masterpiece and a spiritual remedy, fostering deep devotion while providing hope and healing to its devotees. It continues to be widely recited in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and beyond, cherished for its devotional fervor, philosophical depth, and therapeutic power.