The Laghima Siddhi Mantra is a sacred formula for attaining laghima, one of the eight classical siddhis (supernatural powers) described in yogic and tantric traditions. Laghima is the power to make the body weightless, enabling levitation and flight. This mantra is primarily associated with Hanuman, who is renowned for his ability to fly and assume any form, and with Shiva, the supreme yogi who embodies all siddhis. The textual origin of the concept of laghima is found in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (3.45), where it is listed among the vibhutis (powers) attained through samyama on the five elements. The Puranas, such as the Shiva Purana and the Bhagavata Purana, also describe laghima as a power attained by great yogis and devotees.
The mantra itself is a beej (seed) mantra, typically chanted as 'Om Laghimne Namah' or variations thereof. The bija 'Om' represents the primordial sound and the unity of existence, while 'Laghimne' is the dative form of 'laghima', invoking the power of lightness. The phoneme 'la' is associated with the earth element (prithvi) and stability, yet when combined with 'ghima', it transforms into a vibration that transcends gravity. Traditionally, this mantra is chanted for the attainment of levitation, lightness of body, and mastery over gravity. It is also used to overcome physical heaviness, lethargy, and attachment to the material body.
Recommended chanting context includes early morning or during meditation, with a count of 108 repetitions per session, ideally for 40 days. Ritual setting may involve sitting in a comfortable asana, focusing on the navel or the space between the eyebrows, and visualizing the body becoming as light as a feather. Cautions: This mantra is considered powerful and should be chanted with reverence and under the guidance of a qualified guru. It is not recommended for those seeking mere entertainment or for those with unstable minds, as the siddhi can be disruptive if misused. The mantra is best practiced by advanced sadhakas who have purified their minds and bodies through preliminary disciplines.
Salutations to the power of lightness.
The mantra contains the seed-syllable 'Oṁ' (primordial sound). 'Laghimne' is not a standard beej but derives from 'laghima' (lightness).