The Kalpavriksha Mantra is a sacred invocation directed toward the celestial wish-fulfilling tree, known as Kalpavriksha or Kalpataru. This divine tree is first mentioned in the Rigveda (10.90.14) as part of the Purusha Sukta, where it is described as emerging from the cosmic sacrifice. In later Puranic literature, such as the Vishnu Purana (Book 1, Chapter 9), Kalpavriksha is enumerated among the fourteen ratnas (gems) churned from the Ocean of Milk, symbolizing divine abundance and the fulfillment of all desires. The tree is closely associated with the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity, and with Kubera, the lord of wealth, as noted in the Shaktisangama Tantra (Kali Khanda, Chapter 7), where it is described as a bestower of both material and spiritual riches. The mantra typically includes the bija (seed syllable) 'Shreem' (श्रीं), which is the primary beej-akshara of Lakshmi, representing auspiciousness, abundance, and creative energy.
The phoneme 'Shreem' combines the sibilant 'Sh' with the resonant 'Reem', invoking the goddess's grace. The mantra 'Om Kalpavrikshaya Namah' is a simple salutation, while 'Om Shreem Kalpatarave Swaha' incorporates the Lakshmi bija and the offering term 'Swaha', used in homa (fire rituals). Traditional purposes include the fulfillment of all righteous desires (dharma, artha, kama, moksha), material abundance, removal of poverty, and spiritual upliftment. The Devi Mahatmya (Chapter 11, verse 49) extols the Kalpavriksha as a symbol of the divine mother's boon-giving nature. Recommended chanting context: ideally at dawn or dusk, facing east, with a clear intention.
A count of 108 repetitions per session is standard, using a rudraksha or crystal mala. The mantra is especially potent on Akshaya Tritiya and Diwali, as these festivals are associated with prosperity and new beginnings. Ritual setting may include offering flowers, fruits, or coins to a picture or statue of the tree or Lakshmi. Cautions: the mantra should be chanted with pure intent; it is said to amplify both good and bad desires, so one should focus on selfless or dharmic wishes. According to the Mantra Mahodadhi (Chapter 5), the practitioner must maintain mental purity and avoid chanting during inauspicious times like eclipses without proper guidance.
Salutations to the wish-fulfilling tree.
The mantra optionally includes the seed syllable 'Śrīṃ' (श्रीं), the primary bīja of Lakṣmī, representing auspiciousness and abundance. 'Śrīṃ' combines the sibilant 'Ś' with the resonant 'rīṃ', invoking the goddess's grace.