The phrase “Utthisthata, Jagrata, Prapyavaran Nibodhata” is from the Katha Upanishad, one of the ancient Hindu scriptures. It is a verse found in the first section of the Upanishad.
The verse can be translated as “Arise, Awake, And Stop Not Till The Goal Is Reached.” It is a call to action and a reminder to be vigilant and persistent in the pursuit of one’s goals and spiritual enlightenment.
The Katha Upanishad contains a dialogue between a young boy named Nachiketa and the Hindu god of death, Yama. The verse you mentioned is part of the teachings imparted by Yama to Nachiketa, emphasizing the importance of determination and unwavering effort in the spiritual journey.
This verse has become popular and is often quoted to inspire individuals to stay focused, motivated, and persistent in their endeavors, be it spiritual, personal, or professional.

Katha Upanishad is indeed considered one of the major Upanishads. The Upanishads are a collection of ancient Hindu texts that form the philosophical and mystical foundation of Hinduism. They are considered to be the culmination of the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism.
There are traditionally said to be 108 Upanishads, but among them, there are ten Upanishads that are considered the principal or major Upanishads. These ten Upanishads are often referred to as the “Dashopanishads” or the “Ten Principal Upanishads.”
The ten major Upanishads, as commonly recognized, are:
- Isha Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Kena Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Katha Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Prashna Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Mundaka Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Mandukya Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Taittiriya Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Aitareya Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Chandogya Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
- Brihadaranyaka Upanishad – SHORT ESSENCE IN A RHYME
These Upanishads explore various philosophical and spiritual concepts, including the nature of reality, the self (Atman), the ultimate truth (Brahman), and the paths to spiritual liberation (Moksha). They are highly revered and studied by scholars, philosophers, and spiritual seekers in Hinduism.