“Eight divine powers that transcend the limits of the human body and mind — gifts reserved for the truly devoted.”
Have you ever read about saints who could appear in two places at once, become lighter than air, or instantly obtain what they wished for? In Hinduism, such abilities are described as Ashta Siddhi — the eight extraordinary powers said to be granted to great yogis and devotees through unwavering faith, self-discipline, and spiritual mastery.
In this post, we’ll explore what Ashta Siddhi means, their origins in Hindu scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, and why these powers are as much about inner transformation as they are about the supernatural.
What Are Ashta Siddhi?
The term Ashta Siddhi comes from Sanskrit:
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Ashta = Eight
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Siddhi = Attainment, accomplishment, or perfection
In Hindu philosophy, Siddhis are special abilities acquired through deep meditation (dhyana), spiritual discipline (sadhana), and the grace of the Divine. While many types of Siddhis are described in different yogic and tantric traditions, Ashta Siddhi refers specifically to the eight major powers most often linked to supreme saints and deities.
These are not just random magical skills — they symbolize mastery over the self and alignment with universal consciousness.
Origins of Ashta Siddhi in Hindu Scriptures
References to Siddhis can be found across Hindu texts:
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Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 11 & 18) – Krishna mentions the greatness of devotion over powers, yet acknowledges such powers can arise through yoga.
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Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (Vibhuti Pada) – Details different Siddhis and the yogic practices to attain them.
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Puranas – Describe saints, sages, and avatars demonstrating Siddhis to serve dharma.
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Hanuman Chalisa – In the famous verse, “Ashta Siddhi Nava Nidhi ke Daata”, Hanuman is praised as the giver of the eight Siddhis and nine treasures.
Historically, these references served to inspire devotion and remind seekers of the boundless potential of spiritual practice.
The Eight Powers Explained
Here’s a breakdown of each Ashta Siddhi, both in its supernatural sense and symbolic meaning:
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Anima – Becoming as small as an atom
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Literal: The ability to shrink to a microscopic size.
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Symbolic: Humility and ego-dissolution.
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Mahima – Becoming infinitely large
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Literal: Expanding to an immense size.
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Symbolic: Broad-mindedness and cosmic consciousness.
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Garima – Becoming infinitely heavy
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Literal: Attaining massive weight regardless of body mass.
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Symbolic: Stability in principles and unshakable resolve.
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Laghima – Becoming almost weightless
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Literal: Defying gravity or floating in air.
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Symbolic: Lightness of heart and detachment from burdens.
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Prāpti – Instant access to any place or object
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Literal: Teleportation or acquiring any desired thing.
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Symbolic: Attainment of knowledge and truth without obstacles.
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Prākāmya – Fulfillment of any desire
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Literal: Willpower strong enough to make any wish reality.
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Symbolic: Alignment of will with dharma so desires serve the greater good.
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Īśitva – Supreme authority over nature
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Literal: Commanding natural forces.
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Symbolic: Mastery over one’s own mind and senses.
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Vaśitva – Ability to control others or elements
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Literal: Influencing thoughts, actions, or events.
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Symbolic: Guiding and inspiring others towards righteousness.
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Ashta Siddhi in the Bhagavad Gita and Hanuman Chalisa
While Bhagavad Gita does not list the Siddhis one by one, Krishna implies that such powers can arise naturally for advanced yogis. Yet, he warns that clinging to them can be a distraction from the ultimate goal — liberation (moksha).
In the Hanuman Chalisa, Tulsidas writes:
"Ashta Siddhi Nava Nidhi ke Daata, As Var Deen Janki Mata"
Meaning Hanuman, with the blessings of Sita, grants these eight powers and nine treasures to his devotees. This is why Hanuman is revered not just as a symbol of strength, but of divine service and selflessness.
Symbolic and Spiritual Meaning of Each Siddhi
It’s tempting to think of Siddhis as magical tricks, but saints and gurus often interpret them as metaphors for spiritual qualities:
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Anima = Becoming humble in the vast universe.
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Mahima = Expanding compassion beyond personal circles.
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Garima = Staying grounded in values despite challenges.
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Laghima = Letting go of grudges and worries.
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Prāpti = Reaching inner wisdom regardless of external chaos.
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Prākāmya = Channeling desire into purpose-driven action.
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Īśitva = Mastering impulses instead of being ruled by them.
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Vaśitva = Inspiring change without force.
Modern-Day Lessons from Ashta Siddhi
While most of us won’t literally float or teleport, the principles behind the Siddhis are incredibly relevant:
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Personal Growth – Aim for mental flexibility (laghima) and moral firmness (garima).
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Mind Mastery – Just like Īśitva, develop the ability to pause before reacting.
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Purpose-Driven Desire – Like Prākāmya, align goals with a higher mission.
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Humility in Success – Remember Anima when achievements tempt arrogance.
Cautions About Siddhi-Seeking
Ancient yogis often cautioned against actively chasing Siddhis:
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They can inflate the ego.
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They may distract from the ultimate goal — self-realization.
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Misuse can lead to spiritual downfall.
As Krishna said in the Gita, devotion outweighs supernatural power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can anyone attain Ashta Siddhi?
Yes, but only through extreme discipline, deep meditation, and divine grace.
Q: Are Siddhis real or symbolic?
Interpretations vary — some take them literally, others see them as metaphors for spiritual qualities.
Q: Why is Hanuman linked to Ashta Siddhi?
He’s considered the epitome of devotion, strength, and service, embodying all eight Siddhis.
Final Thoughts
The Ashta Siddhi are far more than mystical tales — they’re a roadmap to inner mastery, balance, and service. Whether you believe in their supernatural reality or see them as symbols, they inspire the same lesson: true power is in humility, wisdom, and devotion.
Next time you hear the phrase “Ashta Siddhi Nava Nidhi ke Daata”, remember it’s not just about miraculous powers — it’s about living with purpose, selflessness, and divine connection.