Devi Saptashati: The Timeless Collection of Hymns Honoring Goddess Durga

The story of Devi Saptashati revolves around the fierce battle between the Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura.

Mahishasura was a powerful demon who had obtained a boon from Lord Brahma, which made him invincible against all male beings. This made Mahishasura arrogant, and he started wreaking havoc on the earth and heaven.

The gods were terrified of Mahishasura and they approached Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva for help. The two gods decided to combine their powers and created a female goddess, Durga, who was endowed with the powers of all the gods. Durga fought a fierce battle with Mahishasura for nine days and nights and ultimately defeated him.

The Devi Saptashati describes in detail the various forms that Durga takes during her battle with Mahishasura, such as Kali, Chamunda, and Ambika.

The first form of Durga described in the text is known as Kushmanda, which means “the creator of the universe.” She is said to have created the universe by her divine smile. This form of Durga is worshiped on the fourth day of Navratri.

The second form of Durga is called Brahmacharini, which means “one who practices devout austerity.” She is depicted as a pious and devoted ascetic who is always engaged in penance and meditation. This form of Durga is worshiped on the second day of Navratri.

The third form of Durga is known as Chandraghanta, which means “one who has a half-moon-shaped bell.” She is depicted with a bell-shaped mark on her forehead and is worshiped on the third day of Navratri.

The fourth form of Durga is called Kushmanda, which means “the creator of the universe.” She is depicted as a fierce warrior who is riding a lion and holding weapons in her hands. This form of Durga is worshiped on the fifth day of Navratri.

The fifth form of Durga is known as Skandamata, which means “the mother of Skanda.” Skanda is another name for the god Kartikeya, who is the son of Durga. In this form, Durga is depicted as holding her son Skanda on her lap. She is worshiped on the sixth day of Navratri.

The sixth form of Durga is called Katyayani, which means “daughter of the sage Katyayana.” She is depicted as a warrior goddess who has four arms and rides a lion. This form of Durga is worshiped on the seventh day of Navratri.

The seventh and final form of Durga is known as Kalaratri, which means “the black night.” She is depicted as a fierce and terrifying goddess who destroys all evil. This form of Durga is worshiped on the eighth day of Navratri.

In addition to these forms, the Devi Saptashati also describes the various weapons and powers that Durga wields during her battle with Mahishasura. These include the trishul (trident), the chakra (discus), the sword, and the bow and arrow. She is also said to have the power to create and destroy the universe at will.

The text is divided into 13 chapters, each of which contains several hymns that glorify the various aspects of the Goddess. The hymns are written in Sanskrit and are often recited during religious ceremonies and festivals dedicated to Durga.