Hari

The name Hari (हरी) is one of the most sacred and widely used names of Lord Vishnu in Hindu tradition.

Meaning of Hari

• Remover of sins: In Sanskrit, Hari means “one who removes”. As Vishnu, he removes sins, distress, and ignorance.
• The green/ever-fresh one: Derived from harit (green), it also signifies freshness, life, and nature.
• The sustainer: Vishnu as Hari preserves the universe and protects beings from suffering.

Hari in Scriptures

• Frequently mentioned in the Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas as an epithet of Vishnu.
• The Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavata Purana praise Hari as the protector of devotees.
• Many mantras, like “Hare Rama, Hare Krishna”, use “Hari/Hare” to call upon the compassionate energy of Vishnu.

Common Interpretations

• Hari = One who takes away ignorance & sorrow.
• Hari = One who bestows liberation (moksha).
• Hari = One who is ever-present, all-pervading, and compassionate.

That’s why names like Harinarayan, Harikrishna, Hariprasad are popular in India — all connecting to Vishnu.