IND vs ENG: In a high-pressure setting at the Oval, where India faced a must-win situation to level the five-match Test series against England, the team
found an unusual but powerful source of inspiration - the Shri Shiva Rudrashtakam Stuti.
According to a report in Dainik Jagran, the 16th-century Sanskrit hymn, composed by Tulsidas in praise of Lord Shiva, became the Indian dressing room's constant companion throughout all five days of the series finale.
Trailing 1-2 in the series, the stakes couldn't have been higher. When the first innings began with early setbacks - Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul dismissed at just 38/2 - the mood in the camp dropped significantly. It was then that Raghavendra, the team's senior throwdown specialist, popularly called Raghu, decided to change the atmosphere.
As per the report, Raghu played the Shri Shiva Rudrashtakam over the dressing room speakers, allowing its steady chant to flow through the tense environment. "It wasn't something we planned. But once it started, it became part of our environment. It brought this strange mix of peace and energy," a touring squad member told Dainik Jagran.
The chant did not stop there. From the opening day to the final moments of the match, the Rudrashtakam echoed within the dressing room, creating a calming yet motivating backdrop. "We often play music before or after sessions. It could be something upbeat or devotional, even the Hanuman Chalisa during practice. But five straight days of Rudrashtakam in a high-stakes Test was something new," another player shared.
Traditionally, the hymn is believed to invoke spiritual strength, sharpen focus, and dispel negativity. Folklore says Lord Rama himself recited it at Rameswaram before his decisive battle against Ravana, seeking divine blessings for victory.
That blend of spirituality and cricket worked wonders. The players drew strength and composure from the constant recitation, which helped them stay focused under pressure. Even after securing the win, several cricketers reportedly kept listening to the hymn, carrying its sense of balance and determination beyond the match.
At the Oval, the Rudrashtakam was more than just a chant - it became India's silent twelfth man.
