“Agadham Bam Bagadham Baje Damru” is a bhajan which focuses on capturing the rhythmic, mystical energy (Tandava) of the song.

Agadham, Bagadham and Bam are onomatoepic (reverberating and repetitive) sounds representing the beat of Shiva’s Damru (power drum).

In the Vedic tradition these sounds are also seed syllables, (bijaaksharas) that symbolize the vibration of the universe.

Translation / Interpretation

Agadham Bam Bagadham Baje Damru—With a thunderous Bam, the mystical drum resounds.

Naache Sada Shiv Jagat Guru—Eternal Shiva, the teacher of the universe begins his dance.

Brahma Naache, Vishnu Naache—The Creator (Brahma) and the Preserver (Vishnu) join the rhythm.

Naache Mahadev—the Great God (Mahadev) is lost in the divine dance.

Khappar lekar Kali Naache—Carrying a skull bowl, Goddess Kali dances in ecstasy.

Har Har Mahadev—Victory to the Great God; let all obstacles be destroyed!

Let us understand the context.

The Damru: It is believed that the first sounds of the Sanskrit alphabet came from Shiva’s Damru. When the song says it “rings” (baje) it implies the awakening of consciousness or the beginning of a new cosmic cycle.

The Dance: it represents not just a physical movement but the Tandava—the dance of creation, preservation and ultimate dissolution.

The summary of the cosmic dance is that it invokes Shiva as the Jagat Guru (Guru Of the Universe). It highlights the participation of Brahma, Vishnu and Ma Kali. It has racy pace and embodies the joyous and intense energy of Shiva.

It is a very powerful bhajan, close your eyes and listen to it. Now that you can understand the meaning you will appreciate and dance to it.

Aim Hrim Klim