Khatu ShyamAarti

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   What is an aarti?

   An aarti is a brief devotional song sung at specific times of day — usually with a small flame (a wick lit in ghee or camphor) being moved in a circular motion before the deity. The flame represents the offering of light, time, and self.

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   The Khatu Shyam Aarti

   The traditional Khatu Shyam Aarti is a folk-devotional composition in spoken Hindi. It opens with "Om Jai Shri Shyam Hare" — a melody familiar to Khatu devotees worldwide. The lyrics praise the deity's lineage, his presence at Khatu, and his role as the Hare ka Sahara.

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   Five aartis daily

   Shri Khatu Shyam Mandir conducts five aartis every day — Mangala (dawn), Shringar (morning), Bhog (midday), Sandhya (evening), and Shayan (night). Each marks a different relationship with the deity through the day.

1. Opening

   ॐ जय श्री श्याम हरे, स्वामी जय श्री श्याम हरे।

   Om — victory to Lord Shyam Hare, Master, victory to Lord Shyam Hare. The opening invocation, sung in extended notes, with the lamp flame circling the deity.

2. The promise

   खाटू धाम विराजत, अनुपम रूप हरे॥

   He resides at the abode of Khatu, in a form beyond comparison. A direct affirmation of where the deity has chosen to manifest in this age.

3. Hare ka Sahara

   हारे का सहारा बन कर, भक्तन उद्धार करे॥

   Becoming the refuge of the vanquished, he uplifts his devotees. The single line every Khatu devotee carries with them — this is the central name and promise of the deity.

Timings may vary on Ekadashi, Dwadashi, and during the Phalgun Mela. Verify with the official temple committee for special days.