How Lord Shiva’s stuti inspired Indian cricket team’s turnaround

In an era where analytics, tactics, and cutting-edge science dominate cricket, the Indian team discovered an unexpected source of strength in a timeless devotional chant during their dramatic, series-levelling victory over England at The Oval.

Across the five intense days of the series finale, the Indian dressing room resonated with the Shri Shiva Rudrashtakam Stuti.

India had been under pressure to square the series, especially after Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul fell early in the first innings. At that point, Raghavendra—affectionately known as Raghu—the team’s experienced throwdown specialist, decided to try something different. According to Dainik Jagran, he played the Rudrashtakam on the dressing room speakers. What began as a moment of calm amidst the tension soon turned into a treasured daily ritual.

From day one to day five, the Rudrashtakam remained a steady presence in the dressing room, offering peace and focus to players, coaches, and support staff through its soothing cadence and deep devotional energy.

“We didn’t plan it, but once it started, it became part of the atmosphere. It created a unique mix of calmness and intensity,” said one touring team member.

“We often play music before or after sessions—sometimes upbeat, sometimes devotional, like the Hanuman Chalisa during practice. But hearing the Rudrashtakam for five straight days in such a high-pressure Test was something else. I can’t say it won us the match, but it definitely gave us an energy boost,” added another player.