Bhakti Virtual Seva Portal
Your Digital Spiritual Companion
This humble Digital Seva Initiative has been created to support your Vaiyaktika Sadhana throughout the year. While it serves to inspire, guide, and strengthen your spiritual journey every single day.May this humble offering inspire regularity, deepen devotion, strengthen faith, and bring peace, joy, and spiritual progress to every Sadhaka. May your spiritual journey continue with Shraddha and Niyam
Navarātri Sādhana
Nine Days of Prayer, Reflection and Inner Transformation
Navarātri is a sacred opportunity to turn towards the Divine Mother through prayer, devotion and self-reflection. Through this nine-day Sādhana, BVSP invites you to engage with the traditional prayers of the Devī Māhātmya and reflect on their relevance to our everyday lives. Each day focuses on a prayer and a simple theme—protection and courage, faith and sincerity, overcoming inner obstacles, perseverance, gratitude and forgiveness. Through these reflections, we seek to understand how the spirit of prayer can guide our thoughts, influence our actions and bring greater steadiness to our lives.
How to Practise
Each day's Sādhana follows a simple structure:
Prayer: Read the traditional prayer in Sanskrit, along with its transliteration.
Understanding: Explore the day's theme and the significance of the prayer.
Life Application: Reflect on how its message relates to everyday experiences.
Today's Action: Choose one small, practical step.
Reflection: Pause and contemplate a question.
Summary Audio: Listen to a short devotional reflection to conclude the day's practice.
You may spend a few quiet minutes with the day's Sādhana at a time convenient to you. There is no need to hurry. Read with attention, reflect with sincerity, and carry one meaningful thought into your day.
The Spirit of This Sādhana - The purpose is not merely to complete nine days of prayer, but to allow prayer to inspire a more thoughtful way of living.
Let us begin this journey with devotion, continue with awareness, and conclude with gratitude—carrying the inspiration of Navarātri into our everyday lives.
One Prayer • One Reflection • One Step Towards Inner Growth
May the grace of the Divine Mother guide our thoughts and actions.
Darshan & Contemplation
Navarātri Sādhana
An Invitation to Sādhana
Navratri is an opportunity to turn towards the Divine Mother with devotion, humility and faith. We begin our nine-day journey with Devī Kavacham, the traditional hymn of protection. The word kavacham means armour. Through this prayer, the devotee seeks the grace and protection of the Divine Mother in every direction and throughout every aspect of life. As we begin, let us set aside our everyday concerns for a few moments and turn our attention towards the Divine. We may not be able to control every circumstance in our lives. But we can pray for the strength to face them with courage, patience and wisdom.Let us begin this journey with a quiet mind and a sincere heart.
Day One - Devī Kavacham
DAY ONE THEME - PROTECTION, COURAGE & INNER STEADINESS
॥ अथ श्री देव्याः कवचम् ॥
ॐ अस्य श्रीचण्डीकवचस्यब्रह्मा ऋषिः, अनुष्टुप् छन्दः,
चामुण्डा देवता, अङ्गन्यासोक्तमातरोबीजम्, दिग्बन्धदेवतास्तत्त्वम्,
श्रीजगदम्बाप्रीत्यर्थे सप्तशतीपाठाङ्गत्वेनजपे विनियोगः।
ॐ नमश्चण्डिकायै॥
मार्कण्डेय उवाच
ॐ यद्गुह्यं परमं लोकेसर्वरक्षाकरं नृणाम्।
यन्न कस्यचिदाख्यातंतन्मे ब्रूहि पितामह॥1॥
ब्रह्मोवाच
अस्ति गुह्यतमं विप्र सर्वभूतोपकारकम्।
देव्यास्तु कवचं पुण्यं तच्छृणुष्व महामुने॥2॥
प्रथमं शैलपुत्री च द्वितीयं ब्रह्मचारिणी।
तृतीयं चन्द्रघण्टेति कूष्माण्डेति चतुर्थकम्॥3॥
पञ्चमं स्कन्दमातेति षष्ठं कात्यायनीति च।
सप्तमं कालरात्रीति महागौरीति चाष्टमम्॥4॥
नवमं सिद्धिदात्री च नवदुर्गाः प्रकीर्तिताः।
उक्तान्येतानि नामानि ब्रह्मणैव महात्मना॥5॥
अग्निना दह्यमानस्तु शत्रुमध्ये गतो रणे।
विषमे दुर्गमे चैव भयार्ताः शरणं गताः॥6॥
न तेषां जायते किञ्चिदशुभं रणसङ्कटे।
नापदं तस्य पश्यामि शोकदुःखभयं न हि॥7॥
यैस्तु भक्त्या स्मृता नूनं तेषां वृद्धिः प्रजायते।
ये त्वां स्मरन्ति देवेशि रक्षसे तान्न संशयः॥8॥
प्रेतसंस्था तु चामुण्डा वाराही महिषासना।
ऐन्द्री गजसमारुढा वैष्णवी गरुडासना॥9॥
माहेश्वरी वृषारुढा कौमारी शिखिवाहना।
लक्ष्मीः पद्मासना देवी पद्महस्ता हरिप्रिया॥10॥
श्वेतरूपधरा देवी ईश्वरी वृषवाहना।
ब्राह्मी हंससमारुढा सर्वाभरणभूषिता॥11॥
इत्येता मातरः सर्वाः सर्वयोगसमन्विताः।
नानाभरणशोभाढ्या नानारत्नोपशोभिताः॥12॥
दृश्यन्ते रथमारुढा देव्यः क्रोधसमाकुलाः।
शङ्खं चक्रं गदां शक्तिं हलं च मुसलायुधम्॥13॥
खेटकं तोमरं चैव परशुं पाशमेव च।
कुन्तायुधं त्रिशूलं च शार्ङ्गमायुधमुत्तमम्॥14॥
दैत्यानां देहनाशाय भक्तानामभयाय च।
धारयन्त्यायुधानीत्थं देवानां च हिताय वै॥15॥
नमस्तेऽस्तु महारौद्रे महाघोरपराक्रमे।
महाबले महोत्साहे महाभयविनाशिनि॥16॥
त्राहि मां देवि दुष्प्रेक्ष्ये शत्रूणां भयवर्धिनि।
प्राच्यां रक्षतु मामैन्द्री आग्नेय्यामग्निदेवता॥17॥
दक्षिणेऽवतु वाराही नैर्ऋत्यां खड्गधारिणी।
प्रतीच्यां वारुणी रक्षेद् वायव्यां मृगवाहिनी॥18॥
उदीच्यां पातु कौमारी ऐशान्यां शूलधारिणी।
ऊर्ध्वं ब्रह्माणि मे रक्षेदधस्ताद् वैष्णवी तथा॥19॥
एवं दश दिशो रक्षेच्चामुण्डा शववाहना।
जया मे चाग्रतः पातु विजया पातु पृष्ठतः॥20॥
अजिता वामपार्श्वे तु दक्षिणे चापराजिता।
शिखामुद्योतिनि रक्षेदुमा मूर्ध्नि व्यवस्थिता॥21॥
मालाधरी ललाटे च भ्रुवौ रक्षेद् यशस्विनी।
त्रिनेत्रा च भ्रुवोर्मध्ये यमघण्टा च नासिके॥22॥
शङ्खिनी चक्षुषोर्मध्ये श्रोत्रयोर्द्वारवासिनी।
कपोलौ कालिका रक्षेत्कर्णमूले तु शाङ्करी॥23॥
नासिकायां सुगन्धा च उत्तरोष्ठे च चर्चिका।
अधरे चामृतकला जिह्वायां च सरस्वती॥24॥
दन्तान् रक्षतु कौमारी कण्ठदेशे तु चण्डिका।
घण्टिकां चित्रघण्टा च महामाया च तालुके॥25॥
कामाक्षी चिबुकं रक्षेद् वाचं मे सर्वमङ्गला।
ग्रीवायां भद्रकाली च पृष्ठवंशे धनुर्धरी॥26॥
नीलग्रीवा बहिःकण्ठे नलिकां नलकूबरी।
स्कन्धयोः खङ्गिनी रक्षेद् बाहू मे वज्रधारिणी॥27॥
हस्तयोर्दण्डिनी रक्षेदम्बिका चाङ्गुलीषु च।
नखाञ्छूलेश्वरी रक्षेत्कुक्षौ रक्षेत्कुलेश्वरी॥28॥
स्तनौ रक्षेन्महादेवी मनः शोकविनाशिनी।
हृदये ललिता देवी उदरे शूलधारिणी॥29॥
नाभौ च कामिनी रक्षेद् गुह्यं गुह्येश्वरी तथा।
पूतना कामिका मेढ्रं गुदे महिषवाहिनी॥30॥
कट्यां भगवती रक्षेज्जानुनी विन्ध्यवासिनी।
जङ्घे महाबला रक्षेत्सर्वकामप्रदायिनी॥31॥
गुल्फयोर्नारसिंही च पादपृष्ठे तु तैजसी।
पादाङ्गुलीषु श्री रक्षेत्पादाधस्तलवासिनी॥32॥
नखान् दंष्ट्राकराली च केशांश्चैवोर्ध्वकेशिनी।
रोमकूपेषु कौबेरी त्वचं वागीश्वरी तथा॥33॥
रक्तमज्जावसामांसान्यस्थिमेदांसि पार्वती।
अन्त्राणि कालरात्रिश्च पित्तं च मुकुटेश्वरी॥34॥
पद्मावती पद्मकोशे कफे चूडामणिस्तथा।
ज्वालामुखी नखज्वालामभेद्या सर्वसन्धिषु॥35॥
शुक्रं ब्रह्माणि मे रक्षेच्छायां छत्रेश्वरी तथा।
अहङ्कारं मनो बुद्धिं रक्षेन्मे धर्मधारिणी॥36॥
प्राणापानौ तथा व्यानमुदानं च समानकम्।
वज्रहस्ता च मे रक्षेत्प्राणं कल्याणशोभना॥37॥
रसे रूपे च गन्धे च शब्दे स्पर्शे च योगिनी।
सत्त्वं रजस्तमश्चैव रक्षेन्नारायणी सदा॥38॥
आयू रक्षतु वाराही धर्मं रक्षतु वैष्णवी।
यशः कीर्तिं च लक्ष्मीं च धनं विद्यां च चक्रिणी॥39॥
गोत्रमिन्द्राणि मे रक्षेत्पशून्मे रक्ष चण्डिके।
पुत्रान् रक्षेन्महालक्ष्मीर्भार्यां रक्षतु भैरवी॥40॥
पन्थानं सुपथा रक्षेन्मार्गं क्षेमकरी तथा।
राजद्वारे महालक्ष्मीर्विजया सर्वतः स्थिता॥41॥
रक्षाहीनं तु यत्स्थानं वर्जितं कवचेन तु।
तत्सर्वं रक्ष मे देवि जयन्ती पापनाशिनी॥42॥
पदमेकं न गच्छेत्तु यदीच्छेच्छुभमात्मनः।
कवचेनावृतो नित्यं यत्र यत्रैव गच्छति॥43॥
तत्र तत्रार्थलाभश्च विजयः सार्वकामिकः।
यं यं चिन्तयते कामं तं तं प्राप्नोति निश्चितम्।
परमैश्वर्यमतुलं प्राप्स्यते भूतले पुमान्॥44॥
निर्भयो जायते मर्त्यः सङ्ग्रामेष्वपराजितः।
त्रैलोक्ये तु भवेत्पूज्यः कवचेनावृतः पुमान्॥45॥
इदं तु देव्याः कवचं देवानामपि दुर्लभम्।
यः पठेत्प्रयतो नित्यं त्रिसन्ध्यं श्रद्धयान्वितः॥46॥
दैवी कला भवेत्तस्य त्रैलोक्येष्वपराजितः।
जीवेद् वर्षशतं साग्रमपमृत्युविवर्जितः॥47॥
नश्यन्ति व्याधयः सर्वे लूताविस्फोटकादयः।
स्थावरं जङ्गमं चैव कृत्रिमं चापि यद्विषम्॥48॥
अभिचाराणि सर्वाणि मन्त्रयन्त्राणि भूतले।
भूचराः खेचराश्चैव जलजाश्चोपदेशिकाः॥49॥
सहजा कुलजा माला डाकिनी शाकिनी तथा।
अन्तरिक्षचरा घोरा डाकिन्यश्च महाबलाः॥50॥
ग्रहभूतपिशाचाश्च यक्षगन्धर्वराक्षसाः।
ब्रह्मराक्षसवेतालाः कूष्माण्डा भैरवादयः॥51॥
नश्यन्ति दर्शनात्तस्य कवचे हृदि संस्थिते।
मानोन्नतिर्भवेद् राज्ञस्तेजोवृद्धिकरं परम्॥52॥
यशसा वर्धते सोऽपि कीर्तिमण्डितभूतले।
जपेत्सप्तशतीं चण्डीं कृत्वा तु कवचं पुरा॥53॥
यावद्भूमण्डलं धत्ते सशैलवनकाननम्।
तावत्तिष्ठति मेदिन्यां संततिः पुत्रपौत्रिकी॥54॥
देहान्ते परमं स्थानं यत्सुरैरपि दुर्लभम्।
प्राप्नोति पुरुषो नित्यं महामायाप्रसादतः॥55॥
लभते परमं रूपं शिवेन सह मोदते॥ॐ॥56॥
॥ इति देव्याः कवचं सम्पूर्णम् ॥
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
DAY ONE THEME - PROTECTION, COURAGE & INNER STEADINESS
Devī Kavacham invokes the Divine Mother in her many forms and seeks her protection over the directions, the body and the different aspects of life. The prayer presents the Divine Mother as a source of strength, refuge and grace. Her many forms remind the devotee that divine protection encompasses different dimensions of existence. For our sādhana today, let us contemplate the spirit of seeking refuge in the Divine Mother. Protection need not mean that difficulties will never arise. Prayer can help us meet difficulties with a steadier mind, greater courage and a renewed sense of faith.
LIFE APPLICATION
We all encounter moments when the future seems uncertain. A family concern, a responsibility at work, a difficult decision or an unexpected challenge can occupy our minds and disturb our peace.
At such times, we may become so absorbed in worry that we lose sight of what we can actually do. Devī Kavacham invites us to pause, pray and gather our thoughts. We can seek the Divine Mother's grace while continuing to fulfil our responsibilities. We can acknowledge our fears without allowing them to dictate every action. We can do what is within our capacity and accept that some things remain beyond our control.
Faith does not require us to avoid life's challenges.
It can help us face them with courage and clarity.
INSPIRATION
The image of the Kavacham — the protective armour — gives us a thought to carry through the day. Let devotion strengthen us when fear arises. Let prayer remind us to pause before reacting. Let faith help us continue doing what is right, even when the outcome is uncertain. The outer circumstances of life may not always be in our hands. The sincerity with which we meet them can become part of our sādhana.
TODAY'S ACTION
Today, identify one concern that has been occupying your mind.
After completing the prayer:
Sit quietly for a few moments.
Offer that concern inwardly to the Divine Mother.
Ask yourself: What is the right and courageous step I can take now?
Take that step with sincerity, without allowing worry about the outcome to overwhelm you. Leave what lies beyond your control to the Divine.
Let this small practice bring prayer into everyday life.
REFLECTION
Where in my life do I need greater courage, steadiness and faith? Sit quietly with this question for a few moments. There is no need to force an answer. Allow the prayer to settle within you. Carry its spirit into your thoughts, words and actions today.
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 2 — Argala Stotram
Theme: Seeking Grace and Removing Inner Obstacles
Today, let us continue our Navratri journey with Argala Stotram. We all seek happiness, peace and well-being. As we offer this prayer to the Divine Mother, let us also become aware of the obstacles within us that prevent us from experiencing these qualities. May our prayer help us cultivate clarity, humility and the willingness to improve ourselves.
Argala Stotram
॥ अथार्गलास्तोत्रम् ॥
ॐ अस्य श्रीअर्गलास्तोत्रमन्त्रस्य विष्णुर्ऋषिः,अनुष्टुप् छन्दः,
श्रीमहालक्ष्मीर्देवता, श्रीजगदम्बाप्रीतयेसप्तशतीपाठाङ्गत्वेन जपे विनियोगः॥
ॐ नमश्चण्डिकायै॥
मार्कण्डेय उवाच
ॐ जयन्ती मङ्गला काली भद्रकाली कपालिनी।
दुर्गा क्षमा शिवा धात्री स्वाहा स्वधा नमोऽस्तु ते॥1॥
जय त्वं देवि चामुण्डे जय भूतार्तिहारिणि।
जय सर्वगते देवि कालरात्रि नमोऽस्तु ते॥2॥
मधुकैटभविद्राविविधातृवरदे नमः।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥3॥
महिषासुरनिर्णाशि भक्तानां सुखदे नमः।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥4॥
रक्तबीजवधे देवि चण्डमुण्डविनाशिनि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥5॥
शुम्भस्यैव निशुम्भस्य धूम्राक्षस्य च मर्दिनि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥6॥
वन्दिताङ्घ्रियुगे देवि सर्वसौभाग्यदायिनि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥7॥
अचिन्त्यरूपचरिते सर्वशत्रुविनाशिनि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥8॥
नतेभ्यः सर्वदा भक्त्या चण्डिके दुरितापहे।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥9॥
स्तुवद्भ्यो भक्तिपूर्वं त्वां चण्डिके व्याधिनाशिनि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥10॥
चण्डिके सततं ये त्वामर्चयन्तीह भक्तितः।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥11॥
देहि सौभाग्यमारोग्यं देहि मे परमं सुखम्।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥12॥
विधेहि द्विषतां नाशं विधेहि बलमुच्चकैः।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥13॥
विधेहि देवि कल्याणं विधेहि परमां श्रियम्।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥14॥
सुरासुरशिरोरत्ननिघृष्टचरणेऽम्बिके।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥15॥
विद्यावन्तं यशस्वन्तं लक्ष्मीवन्तं जनं कुरु।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥16॥
प्रचण्डदैत्यदर्पघ्ने चण्डिके प्रणताय मे।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥17॥
चतुर्भुजे चतुर्वक्त्रसंस्तुते परमेश्वरि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥18॥
कृष्णेन संस्तुते देवि शश्वद्भक्त्या सदाम्बिके।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥19॥
हिमाचलसुतानाथसंस्तुते परमेश्वरि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥20॥
इन्द्राणीपतिसद्भावपूजिते परमेश्वरि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥21॥
देवि प्रचण्डदोर्दण्डदैत्यदर्पविनाशिनि।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥22॥
देवि भक्तजनोद्दामदत्तानन्दोदयेऽम्बिके।
रूपं देहि जयं देहि यशो देहि द्विषो जहि॥23॥
पत्नीं मनोरमां देहि मनोवृत्तानुसारिणीम्।
तारिणीं दुर्गसंसारसागरस्य कुलोद्भवाम्॥24॥
इदं स्तोत्रं पठित्वा तु महास्तोत्रं पठेन्नरः।
स तु सप्तशतीसङ्ख्यावरमाप्नोति सम्पदाम्॥25॥॥
इति देव्या अर्गलास्तोत्रं सम्पूर्णम् ॥
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
Argala Stotram is part of the traditional Devī Māhātmya recitation. Through its verses, the devotee seeks the Divine Mother's blessings and grace.In sādhana, seeking grace and making personal effort can go together. We pray with humility, while also recognising where our own thoughts, habits and actions need correction.
LIFE APPLICATION
When a problem persists, we may focus entirely on other people or circumstances. Sometimes, however, our own impatience, expectations or unwillingness to listen makes the situation more difficult.Today, let us look inward before reacting outwardly. We may not be able to change every situation, but we can begin by changing our response.
INSPIRATION
Prayer becomes a deeper practice when we are willing to let it transform not only our circumstances, but also ourselves.
TODAY'S ACTION
Identify one inner obstacle that has troubled you recently—perhaps impatience, worry or resentment. When it arises today, pause before reacting and consciously choose a wiser response.
REFLECTION
What inner obstacle can I begin to overcome with the help of prayer and sincere effort?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 3 — Kīlakastotram
Theme: Faith, Sincerity and Wholehearted Prayer
Today, our Navratri journey brings us to Kilakam. Let us approach our prayer without haste. For a few moments, put aside the distractions of the day and bring your attention to the practice itself. May our sādhana become more than a daily routine. May it be an expression of faith, sincerity and a willing heart
Kīlakastotram
॥ अथ कीलकम् ॥
ॐ अस्य श्रीकीलकमन्त्रस्य शिव ऋषिः,अनुष्टुप् छन्दः,
श्रीमहासरस्वती देवता,श्रीजगदम्बाप्रीत्यर्थं सप्तशतीपाठाङ्गत्वेन जपे विनियोगः।
ॐ नमश्चण्डिकायै॥
मार्कण्डेय उवाच
ॐ विशुद्धज्ञानदेहाय त्रिवेदीदिव्यचक्षुषे।
श्रेयःप्राप्तिनिमित्ताय नमः सोमार्धधारिणे॥1॥
सर्वमेतद्विजानीयान्मन्त्राणामभिकीलकम्।
सोऽपि क्षेममवाप्नोति सततं जाप्यतत्परः॥2॥
सिद्ध्यन्त्युच्चाटनादीनि वस्तूनि सकलान्यपि।
एतेन स्तुवतां देवी स्तोत्रमात्रेण सिद्ध्यति॥3॥
न मन्त्रो नौषधं तत्र न किञ्चिदपि विद्यते।
विना जाप्येन सिद्ध्येत सर्वमुच्चाटनादिकम्॥4॥
समग्राण्यपि सिद्ध्यन्ति लोकशङ्कामिमां हरः।
कृत्वा निमन्त्रयामास सर्वमेवमिदं शुभम्॥5॥
स्तोत्रं वै चण्डिकायास्तु तच्च गुप्तं चकार सः।
समाप्तिर्न च पुण्यस्य तां यथावन्नियन्त्रणाम्॥6॥
सोऽपि क्षेममवाप्नोति सर्वमेवं न संशयः।
कृष्णायां वा चतुर्दश्यामष्टम्यां वा समाहितः॥7॥
ददाति प्रतिगृह्णाति नान्यथैषा प्रसीदति।
इत्थंरुपेण कीलेन महादेवेन कीलितम्॥8॥
यो निष्कीलां विधायैनां नित्यं जपति संस्फुटम्।
स सिद्धः स गणः सोऽपि गन्धर्वो जायते नरः॥9॥
न चैवाप्यटतस्तस्य भयं क्वापीह जायते।
नापमृत्युवशं याति मृतो मोक्षमवाप्नुयात्॥10॥
ज्ञात्वा प्रारभ्य कुर्वीत न कुर्वाणो विनश्यति।
ततो ज्ञात्वैव सम्पन्नमिदं प्रारभ्यते बुधैः॥11॥
सौभाग्यादि च यत्किञ्चिद् दृश्यते ललनाजने।
तत्सर्वं तत्प्रसादेन तेन जाप्यमिदं शुभम्॥12॥
शनैस्तु जप्यमानेऽस्मिन् स्तोत्रे सम्पत्तिरुच्चकैः।
भवत्येव समग्रापि ततः प्रारभ्यमेव तत्॥13॥
ऐश्वर्यं यत्प्रसादेन सौभाग्यारोग्यसम्पदः।
शत्रुहानिःपरो मोक्षः स्तूयते सा न किं जनैः॥14॥
॥ इति देव्याः कीलकस्तोत्रं सम्पूर्णम् ॥
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
Kīlakam is traditionally recited as part of the preparatory hymns associated with the Devī Māhātmya. It has a specific place within the traditional recitation and should be approached with respect for its context. For our daily reflection, we can consider the importance of sincerity. Sādhana is not about appearing spiritual or completing a task for its own sake. It is an opportunity to turn our attention towards the Divine with humility and steadiness.
LIFE APPLICATION
In everyday life, we may perform many tasks out of habit. We can also approach prayer in the same way, allowing the words to pass without attention. Today, let us slow down. Even if we have only a few minutes, let us give those minutes our full attention rather than measuring the value of our practice by its length.
INSPIRATION
A few moments of sincere attention can be more meaningful than a long practice performed without awareness.
TODAY'S ACTION
Set aside a few quiet minutes for today's prayer. Put away distractions, read attentively, and allow yourself to be fully present without rushing to finish.
REFLECTION
Am I approaching my sādhana with attention and sincerity, or merely completing a routine?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 4 — Tantroktam Rātri Sūktam
Theme: Recognising the Divine Presence in the Mystery of Life
Today, we continue with Tantroktam Rātri Sūktam.Night reminds us that there are times when we cannot see the entire path ahead. Let us approach today's prayer with humility and reflect on how we meet uncertainty in our own lives. May this sādhana help us become more patient, attentive and receptive to the Divine presence
Recognising the Divine Presence in the Mystery of Life
The Rātri Sūktam in the Devī Māhātmya tradition praises the Divine power associated with night. Life, too, has periods of clarity and periods of uncertainty. When we cannot see the whole path, we can still remain attentive, act responsibly and meet the unknown with humility and faith.
Tantroktam Rātri Sūktam
॥ अथ तन्त्रोक्तं रात्रिसूक्तम् ॥
ॐ विश्वेश्वरीं जगद्धात्रीं स्थितिसंहारकारिणीम्।
निद्रां भगवतीं विष्णोरतुलां तेजसः प्रभुः॥1॥
ब्रह्मोवाचत्वं स्वाहा त्वं स्वधा त्वं हि वषट्कारः स्वरात्मिका।
सुधा त्वमक्षरे नित्ये त्रिधा मात्रात्मिका स्थिता॥2॥
अर्धमात्रास्थिता नित्या यानुच्चार्या विशेषतः।
त्वमेव सन्ध्या सावित्री त्वं देवि जननी परा॥3॥
त्वयैतद्धार्यते विश्वं त्वयैतत्सृज्यते जगत्।
त्वयैतत्पाल्यते देवि त्वमत्स्यन्ते च सर्वदा॥4॥
विसृष्टौ सृष्टिरुपा त्वं स्थितिरूपा च पालने।
तथा संहृतिरूपान्ते जगतोऽस्य जगन्मये॥5॥
महाविद्या महामाया महामेधा महास्मृतिः।
महामोहा च भवती महादेवी महासुरी॥6॥
प्रकृतिस्त्वं च सर्वस्य गुणत्रयविभाविनी।
कालरात्रिर्महारात्रिर्मोहरात्रिश्च दारुणा॥7॥
त्वं श्रीस्त्वमीश्वरी त्वं ह्रीस्त्वं बुद्धिर्बोधलक्षणा।
लज्जा पुष्टिस्तथा तुष्टिस्त्वं शान्तिः क्षान्तिरेव च॥8॥
खड्गिनी शूलिनी घोरा गदिनी चक्रिणी तथा।
शङ्खिनी चापिनी बाणभुशुण्डीपरिघायुधा॥9॥
सौम्या सौम्यतराशेषसौम्येभ्यस्त्वतिसुन्दरी।
परापराणां परमा त्वमेव परमेश्वरी॥10॥
यच्च किञ्चित् क्वचिद्वस्तु सदसद्वाखिलात्मिके।
तस्य सर्वस्य या शक्तिः सा त्वं किं स्तूयसे तदा॥11॥
यया त्वया जगत्स्रष्टा जगत्पात्यत्ति यो जगत्।
सोऽपि निद्रावशं नीतः कस्त्वां स्तोतुमिहेश्वरः॥12॥
विष्णुः शरीरग्रहणमहमीशान एव च।
कारितास्ते यतोऽतस्त्वां कः स्तोतुं शक्तिमान् भवेत्॥13॥
सा त्वमित्थं प्रभावैः स्वैरुदारैर्देवि संस्तुता।
मोहयैतौ दुराधर्षावसुरौ मधुकैटभौ॥14॥
प्रबोधं च जगत्स्वामी नीयतामच्युतो लघु।
बोधश्च क्रियतामस्य हन्तुमेतौ महासुरौ॥15॥॥
इति रात्रिसूक्तम् ॥
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
The traditional hymn reveres Rātri, the Divine power associated with night. Rather than seeing darkness only as something to fear, we can use this prayer as an invitation to contemplate the mysteries of existence and the limits of our own understanding. Spiritual reflection does not require us to have an answer to every question.
It encourages us to remain humble, attentive and receptive even when certainty is absent.
LIFE APPLICATION
There are times when a decision is difficult, the future is unclear, or a personal situation has no immediate solution. We may respond by worrying endlessly or trying to control everything. Today, let us practise accepting what we do not yet understand while continuing to fulfil the responsibilities that are within our reach.
INSPIRATION
We may not always see the whole path, but we can still take the next step with care, faith and discernment.
TODAY'S ACTION
Think of one situation in your life that remains uncertain. Instead of repeatedly worrying about it, identify one constructive action you can take today and leave what is beyond your control for now.
REFLECTION
Can I remain patient and faithful even when I do not have all the answers?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 5 — Mahiṣāntakarī Sūktam
Theme: Overcoming Inner Negativity
Today, let us reflect on the strength of the Divine Mother and the victory of good over destructive forces. As we offer our prayer, let us also turn our attention inward. What thoughts, habits or tendencies disturb our peace and affect the way we treat others?May today's sādhana give us the courage to recognise our shortcomings and the determination to improve
The Divine Mother's victory over Mahishasura is a powerful image of the triumph of divine strength over destructive forces. In our own lives, the struggle may take the form of anger, arrogance, jealousy or uncontrolled desires. Recognising these tendencies honestly is the first step towards overcoming them.
Mahiṣāntakarī Sūktam
॥ महिषान्तकरी सूक्तम् (शक्रादि स्तुति) ॥
शक्रादयः सुरगणा निहतेऽतिवीर्ये ।
तस्मिन्दुरात्मनि सुरारि बले च देव्या ॥
ताङ्प्रणता नतिनम्र शिरोधरांसा ।
वाग्भिः प्रहर्षपुलकोद्गम चारुदेहाः ॥ १ ॥
देव्या यया ततमिदं जगदात्मशक्त्या ।
निःशेषदेवगणशक्तिसमूहमूर्त्या ॥
तामम्बिकामखिलदेवमहर्षिपूज्याम् ।
भक्त्या नताः स्म विदधातु शुभानि सा नः ॥ २ ॥
यस्याः प्रभावमतुलं भगवाननन्तो ।
ब्रह्मा हरश्च न हि वक्तुमलं बलं च ॥
सा चण्डिकाखिलजगत्परिपालनाय ।
नाशाय चाशुभभयस्य मतिं करोतु ॥ ३ ॥
या श्रीः स्वयं suकृतिनां भवनेष्वलक्ष्मीः ।
पापात्मनां कृतधियां हृदयेषु बुद्धिः ॥
श्रद्धा सतां कुलजनप्रभवस्य लज्जा ।
तां त्वां नताः स्म परिपालय देवि विश्वम् ॥ ४ ॥
किं वर्णयाम तव रूपमचिन्त्यमेतत् ।
किञ्चातिवीर्यमसुरक्षयकारि भूरि ॥
किञ्चाहवेषु चरितानि तवाद्भुतानि ।
सर्वेषु देव्यसुरदेवगणेषु च ॥ ५ ॥
हेतुः समस्तजगतां त्रिगुणापि दोषैः ।
न ज्ञायसे हरिरिहादिभिरप्यपारा ॥
सर्वाश्रयाखिलमिदं जगदंशभूतम् ।
अव्याकृता हि परमा प्रकृतिस्त्वमाद्या ॥ ६ ॥
यस्याः समस्तसुरता समुदीरणेन ।
तृप्तिं प्रयाति सकलेषु मखेषु देवि ॥
स्वाहासि वै पितृगणस्य च तृप्तिहेतुः ।
उच्चार्यसे त्वमत एव जनैः स्वधा च ॥ ७ ॥
या मुक्तिहेतुरविचिन्त्यमहाव्रता त्वम् ।
अभ्यस्यसे सुनियतेन्द्रियतत्त्वसारैः ॥
मोक्षार्थिभिर्मुनिभिरस्तसमस्तदोषैः ।
विद्यासि सा भगवती परमा हि देवि ॥ ८ ॥
शब्दात्मिका सुविमलर्ग्यजुषां निधानम् ।
उद्गीथरम्यपदपाठवतां च साम्नाम् ॥
देवी त्रयी भगवती भवभावनाय ।
वार्ता च सर्वजगतां परमार्तिहन्त्री ॥ ९ ॥
मेधासि देवि विदिताखिलशास्त्रसारा ।
दुर्गासि दुर्गभवसागरनौरसङ्गा
॥श्रीः कैटभारिहृदयैककृताधिवासा ।
गौरी त्वमेव शशिमौलिकृतप्रतिष्ठा ॥ १० ॥
ईषत्सहासममलं परिपूर्णचन्द्र ।
बिम्बानुकारि कनकलोत्तमकान्तिकान्तम् ॥
विस्मयनीयमहो समरं विलोक्य ।
वक्त्रं रुषा चशभृतं सहसाभिजघ्ने ॥ ११ ॥
दृष्ट्वा च देवि कुपितं भ्रुकुटीकरालम् ।
उद्यच्छशाङ्कसदृशच्छवि यन्न सद्यः ॥
प्राणान् मुमोच महिषस्तदतीव चित्रम् ।
कैर्जीव्यते हि कुपितान्तकदर्शनेन ॥ १२ ॥
देवि प्रसीद पर माभवती भवाय ।
सद्यो विनाशयसि कोपवती कुलानि ॥
विज्ञातमेतदधुनैव यदस्तमेतद् ।
बलं सुविपुलं महिषासुरस्य ॥ १३ ॥
ते सम्मता जनपदेषु धनानि तेषाम् ।
तेषां यशांसि न च सीदति बन्धुवर्गः ॥
धन्यास्त एव निभृतात्मजभृत्यदारा ।
yeषां सदाभ्युदयदा भवती प्रसन्ना ॥ १४ ॥
धर्माणि देवि सकलानि सदैव कर्मा ।
ण्यभ्यस्यति प्रतिदिनं सुकृती कृतार्थः ॥
स्वर्गं प्रयाति च ततो भवतीप्रसादात् ।
लोकत्रयेऽपि फलदा ननु देवि तेन ॥ १५ ॥
दुर्गे स्मृता हरसि भीतिमशेषजन्तोः ।
स्वस्थैः स्मृता मतिमतीव शुभां ददासि ॥
दारिद्र्यदुःखभयहारिणि का त्वदन्या ।
सर्वोपकारकरणाय सदार्द्रचित्ता ॥ १६ ॥
एतैर्हतैर्जगदुपैति सुखं तथैते ।
कुर्वन्तु नाम नरकाय चिराय पापम् ॥
संग्राममृत्यमधिगम्य दिवं प्रयान्तु ।
मत्वेति नूनममुरान् विनिहंसि देवि ॥ १७ ॥
दृष्ट्वैव किं न भवती प्रकरोति भस्म ।
सर्वासुरानरिषु यत्प्रहिणोषि शस्त्रम् ॥
लोकान्प्रयान्तु रिपवोऽपि हि शस्त्रपूता ।
इत्थं मतिर्भवति तेष्वपि तेऽतिसाध्वी ॥ १८ ॥
खड्गप्रभानिकरविस्फुरणैस्तथोग्रैः ।
शूलाग्रकान्तिनिवहेन दृशोऽसुराणाम् ॥
यन्नाभवन्विशरणानि विलोकयन्त्यः ।
तद्रूपमिन्दुशकलप्रभमाननं यत् ॥ १९ ॥
दुर्वृत्तवृत्तशमनं तव देवि शीलं ।
रूपं तथैतदविचिन्त्यमतुल्यमन्यैः ॥
वीर्यं च हन्तृ हृतदेवपराक्रमाणां ।
वैरिष्वपि प्रकटीकृतैव दया त्वया ॥ २० ॥
केनोपमा त्वदस्य पराक्रमस्य ।
रूपं च शत्रुभयकार्यतिहारि कुत्र ॥
चित्ते कृपा समरनिष्ठुरता च दृष्टा ।
त्वय्येव देवि भुवनेषु वरप्रदासु ॥ २१ ॥
त्रैलोक्यमेतदखिलं रिपुनाशनेन ।
त्रातं त्वया समरमूर्धनि तेऽपि हत्वा ॥
नीता दिवं रिपुगणा भयमध्यपास्तम् ।
अस्माकमुन्मदसुरारिभवं नमस्ते ॥ २२ ॥
शूलेन पाहि नो देवि पाहि खड्गेन चाम्बिके ।
घण्टास्वनेन नः पाहि चापज्यानिस्वनेन च ॥ २३ ॥
प्राच्यां रक्ष प्रतीच्यां च चण्डिके रक्ष दक्षिणे ।
भ्रामणेनात्मशूलस्य उत्तरस्यां तथेश्वरि ॥ २४ ॥
सौम्यानि यानि रूपाणि त्रैलोक्ये विचरन्ति ते ।
यानि चात्यन्तघोराणि तैद्रक्षास्मांस्तथा भुवम् ॥ २५॥
खड्गशूलगदादीनि यानि चास्त्राणि तेऽम्बिके ।
करपल्लवसङ्गीनि तैरस्मान्रक्ष सर्वतः ॥ २६ ॥
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
The victory of the Divine Mother reminds us that destructive forces need not have the final word. The story can also prompt us to examine the tendencies within ourselves that create conflict and suffering. This is not an invitation to judge ourselves harshly. It is an invitation to recognise our weaknesses honestly and seek the strength to overcome them through awareness, prayer and sustained effort.
LIFE APPLICATION
Anger can lead us to speak harshly. Pride can prevent us from admitting a mistake. Jealousy can prevent us from appreciating another person's success.When these tendencies arise, we often justify them instead of examining them. Sādhana gives us an opportunity to pause and choose differently.
INSPIRATION
The first victory is not over another person. It is over the tendency within us that prevents us from acting wisely.
TODAY'S ACTION
Notice one negative tendency when it arises today. Do not immediately justify or condemn it. Pause, recognise it, and consciously choose a more constructive response.
REFLECTION
Which tendency within me most needs awareness and transformation?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 6 — Aparājitā Stotram
Theme: Perseverance and the Strength to Face Challenges
Today, our Navratri journey brings us to Aparājitā Stotram.Every life has challenges. Some are temporary, while others require patience and sustained effort. Let us offer our prayer with faith and reflect on the strength needed to continue our journey with courage and wisdom.May we learn to face difficulties without losing hope or our sense of responsibility.
Perseverance and the Strength to Face Challenges
The name Aparājitā conveys the sense of the unconquered or invincible Divine. Courage does not mean that we never experience fear or difficulty. It means that we continue to face life's challenges with discernment, perseverance and faith.
Aparājitā Stotram
॥ अथ अपराजितास्तोत्रम् ॥
देवा ऊचुः
नमो देव्यै महा देव्यै शिवायै सततं नमः।
नमः प्रकृत्यै भद्रायै नियताः प्रणताः स्म ताम्॥ १॥
रौद्रायै नमो नित्यायै गौर्यै धात्र्यै नमो नमः।
ज्योत्स्नायै चेन्दुरूपिण्यै सुखायै सततं नमः॥ २॥
कल्याण्यै प्रणतां वृद्धयै सिद्धयै कुर्मो नमो नमः।
नरक्रत्यै भूभृतां लक्ष्म्यै शर्वाण्यै ते नमो नमः॥ ३॥
दुर्गायै दुर्गपारायै सारायै सर्वकारिण्यै।
ख्यात्यै तथैव कृष्णायै धूम्रायै सततं नमः॥ ४॥
अतिसौम्यातिरौद्रायै नतास्तस्यै नमो नमः।
नमो जगत्प्रतिष्ठायै देव्यै कृत्यै नमो नमः॥ ५॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु विष्णुमायेति शब्दिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ ६॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु चेतनेत्यभिधीयते।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ ७॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु बुद्धिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ ८॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु निद्रारूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ ९॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु क्षुधारूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १०॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु छायारूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ ११॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्तिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १२॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु तृष्णारूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १३॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु क्षान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १४॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु जातिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १५॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु लज्जारूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १६॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १७॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु श्रद्धारूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १८॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु कान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ १९॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु लक्ष्मीरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २०॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु वृत्तिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २१॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु स्मृतिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २२॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु दयारूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २३॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु तुष्टिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २४॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु मातृरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २५॥
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु भ्रान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २६॥
इन्द्रियाणामधिष्ठात्री भूतानां चाखिलेषु या।
भूतेषु सततं तस्यै व्याप्तिदेव्यै नमो नमः॥ २७॥
चितिरूपेण या कृत्स्नमेतद् व्याप्य स्थिता जगत्।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ २८॥
स्तुता सुरैः पूर्वमभीष्टसंश्रया-
त्तथा सुरेन्द्रेण दिनेषु सेविता।
करोतु सा नः शुभहेतुरीश्वरी
शुभानि भद्राण्यभिहन्तु चापदः॥ २९॥
या साम्प्रतं चोद्धतदैत्यतापितै-
रस्माभिरीशा च सुरैर्नमस्यते।
या च स्मृता तत्क्षणमेव हन्ति नः
सर्वापदो भक्तिविनम्रमूर्तिभिः॥ ३०॥
(श्री दुर्गासप्तशती पञ्चमोऽध्यायतः)
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
Aparājitā evokes the strength that is not easily overcome. In our spiritual journey, this can remind us to remain steady when circumstances become difficult. Perseverance does not mean stubbornly continuing in the wrong direction. It means having the patience to continue what is worthwhile, the wisdom to change our approach when necessary, and the humility to seek help when needed.
LIFE APPLICATION
A difficult responsibility, a personal setback or a long-pending task can gradually weaken our motivation. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the entire challenge, we can break it into smaller steps. Faith gives us encouragement; thoughtful effort turns that encouragement into action.
INSPIRATION
We may not be able to overcome every challenge in one day, but we can choose not to give up on the next right step.
TODAY'S ACTION
Identify one responsibility or constructive task you have been postponing. Take one practical step towards completing it today, however small.
REFLECTION
When I face difficulty, do I respond with discouragement, avoidance or thoughtful perseverance?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 7 — Nārāyaṇī Sūktam
Theme: Reverence for the Divine Mother
As we enter the seventh day of our Navratri journey, let us turn towards the Divine Mother with reverence and gratitude. Today, let us look beyond the habit of asking for what we need and spend a few moments appreciating the grace, support and opportunities that are already present in our lives. May our prayer deepen our humility and express itself through kindness towards others.
Reverence for the Divine Mother
Nārāyaṇī Sūktam is associated with praise and reverence for the Divine Mother. Reverence is more than an expression of devotion during prayer. It can also be reflected in gratitude, humility and respect for the lives and responsibilities entrusted to us.
Nārāyaṇī Sūktam
॥ अथ नारायणीसूक्तम् ॥
ॐ ऋषिरुवाच
देव्या हते तत्र महासुरेन्द्रे
सेन्द्राः सुरा वह्निपुरोगमास्ताम्।
कात्यायनीं तुष्टुवुरिष्टलाभाद्
विकाशिवक्त्राब्जविकाशिताशाः ॥ १॥
देवि प्रपन्नार्तिहरे प्रसीद
प्रसीद मातर्जगतोऽखिलस्य।
प्रसीद विश्वेश्वरि पाहि विश्वं
त्वमीश्वरी देवि चराचरस्य ॥ २॥
आधारभूता जगतस्त्वमेका
महीस्वरूपेण यतः स्थितासि।
अपां स्वरूपस्थितया त्वयैत-
दाप्यायते कृत्स्नमलङ्घ्यवीर्ये ॥ ३॥
त्वं वैष्णवी शक्तिरनन्तवीर्या
विश्वस्य बीजं परमासि माया।
सम्मोहितं देवि समस्तमेतत्
त्वं वै प्रसन्ना भुवि मुक्तिहेतुः ॥ ४॥
विद्याः समस्तास्तव देवि भेदाः
स्त्रियः समस्ताः सकला जगत्सु।
त्वयैकया पूरितमम्बयैतत्
का ते स्तुतिः स्तव्यपरा परोक्तिः ॥ ५॥
सर्वभूता यदा देवी स्वर्गमुक्तिप्रदायिनी।
त्वं स्तुता स्तुतये का वा भवन्तु परमोक्तयः ॥ ६॥
सर्वस्य बुद्धिरूपेण जनस्य हृदि संस्थिते।
स्वर्गापवर्गदे देवि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ ७॥
कलाकाष्ठादिरूपेण परिणामप्रदायिनि।
विश्वस्योपरतौ शक्ते नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ ८॥
सर्वमङ्गलमाङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके।
शरण्ये त्र्यम्बके गौरि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ ९॥
सृष्टिस्थितिविनाशानां शक्तिभूते सनातनि।
गुणाश्रये गुणमये नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १०॥
शरणागतदीनार्तपरित्राणपरायणे।
सर्वस्यार्तिहरे देवि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ ११॥
हंसयुक्तविमानस्थे ब्रह्माणीरूपधारिणि।
कौशाम्भःक्षरिके देवि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १२॥
त्रिशूलचन्द्राहिधरे महावृषभवाहिनि।
माहेश्वरीस्वरूपेण नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १३॥
मयूरकुक्कुटवृते महाशक्तिधरेऽनघे।
कौमारीरूपसंस्थाने नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १४॥
शङ्खचक्रगदाशार्ङ्गगृहीतपरमायुधे।
प्रसीद वैष्णवीरूपे नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १५॥
गृहीतोग्रमहाचक्रे दंष्ट्रोद्धृतवसुन्धरे।
वराहरूपिणि शिवे नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १६॥
नृसिंहरूपेणोग्रेण हन्तुं दैत्यान् कृतोद्यमे।
त्रैलोक्यत्राणसहिते नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १७॥
किरीटिनि महावज्रे सहस्रनयनोज्ज्वले।
वृत्रप्राणहरे चैन्द्रि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १८॥
शिवदूतीस्वरूपेण हतदैत्यमहाबले।
घोररूपे महारावे नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ १९॥
दंष्ट्राकरालवदने शिरोमालाविभूषणे।
चामुण्डे मुण्डमथने नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ २०॥
लक्ष्मि लज्जे महाविद्ये श्रद्धे पुष्टिस्वधे ध्रुवे।
महारात्रि महामाये नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ २१॥
मेधे सरस्वति वरे भूति बाभ्रवि तामसि।
नियते त्वं प्रसीदेशे नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ २२॥
सर्वस्वरूपे सर्वेशे सर्वशक्तिसमन्विते।
भयेभ्यस्त्राहि नो देवि दुर्गे देवि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ २३॥
एतत्ते वदनं सौम्यं लोचनत्रयभूषितम्।
पातु नः सर्वभीतिभ्यः कात्यायनि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ २४॥
ज्वालाकरालमत्युग्रमशेषासुरसूदनम्।
त्रिशूलं पातु नो भीतेर्भद्रकालि नमोऽस्तु ते ॥ २५॥
हिनस्ति दैत्यतेजांसि स्वनेनापूर्य या जगत्।
सा घण्टा पातु नो देवि पापेभ्योऽस्मान् सुतानिव ॥ २६॥
असुरासृग्वसापङ्कचर्चितस्ते करोज्ज्वलः।
शुभाय खड्गो भवतु चण्डिके त्वां नता वयम् ॥ २७॥
रोगानशेषानपहंसि तुष्टा
रुष्टा तु कामान् सकलानभीष्टान्।
त्वामाश्रितानां न विपन्नराणां
त्वामाश्रिता ह्याश्रयतां प्रयान्ति ॥ २८॥
एतत्कृतं यत्कदनं त्वयाद्य
धर्मद्विषां देवि महासुराणाम्।
रूपैरनेकैर्बहुधात्ममूर्तिं
कृत्वाम्बिके तत्प्रकरोति कान्या ॥ २९॥
विद्यासु शास्त्रेषु विवेकदीपेष्वाद्येषु
वाक्येषु च का त्वदन्या।
ममत्वगर्तेऽतिमहान्धकारे
विश्रामयत्येतदतीव विश्वम् ॥ ३०॥
रक्षांसि यत्रोग्रविषाश्च नागा
यत्रारयो दस्युबलानि यत्र।
दावानलो यत्र तथाब्धिमध्ये
तत्र स्थिता त्वं परिपासि विश्वम् ॥ ३१॥
विश्वेश्वरि त्वं परिपासि विश्वं
विश्वात्मिका धारयसीति विश्वम्।
विश्वेशवन्द्या भवती भवन्ति
विश्वाश्रया ये त्वयि भक्तिनम्राः ॥ ३२॥
देवि प्रसीद परिपालय नोऽरिभीते-
र्नित्यं यथासुरवधादधुनैव सद्यः।
पापानि सर्वजगतां प्रशमं नयाशु
उत्पातपाकजनितांश्च महोपसर्गान् ॥ ३३॥
प्रणतानां प्रसीद त्वं देवि विश्वार्तिहारिणि।
त्रैलोक्यवासिनामीड्ये लोकानां वरदा भव ॥ ३४॥
देव्युवाचवरदाहं सुरगणा वरं यन्मनसेच्छथ।
तं वृणुध्वं प्रयच्छामि जगतामुपकारकम् ॥ ३५॥
देवा ऊचुःसर्वाबाधाप्रशमनं त्रैलोक्यस्याखिलेश्वरि।
एवमेव त्वया कार्यमस्मद्वैरिविनाशनम् ॥ ३६॥
(श्री दुर्गासप्तशती एकादशोऽध्यायतः)
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
The prayer expresses reverence towards the Divine Mother and invites the devotee to recognise divine greatness with humility. Devotion need not be limited to asking for favours or relief from difficulties. It can also be an expression of gratitude and an acknowledgement that much of what sustains our lives comes through sources beyond our individual effort.
LIFE APPLICATION
We often notice what is missing from our lives more readily than what we have received. We may overlook the support of family, the kindness of others, the opportunity to learn or the simple gift of another day. A grateful mind does not deny life's difficulties. It learns to recognise goodness alongside them.
INSPIRATION
Gratitude transforms devotion from a request for blessings into an appreciation of the grace already present in our lives.
TODAY'S ACTION
Think of three things for which you are grateful today. If one of them involves another person, express your appreciation to that person.
REFLECTION
How can I express my reverence for the Divine Mother through gratitude and the way I treat others?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 8 — Devyaparādha Kṣamāpana Stotram
Theme: Humility, Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness
Today, we approach the Divine Mother through Devyaparādha Kṣamāpana Stotram, a prayer seeking forgiveness.As we pray, let us allow ourselves to look back honestly at our shortcomings without becoming trapped in regret. May we find the humility to acknowledge our mistakes, the courage to seek forgiveness where needed, and the resolve to do better.Let this day's sādhana become an opportunity for a sincere new beginning.
Humility, Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness
None of us is free from mistakes. This prayer expresses the humility of a devotee who acknowledges shortcomings and seeks the Divine Mother's forgiveness. Such humility can also guide us in our relationships: to admit when we are wrong, make amends where possible, and learn from our actions.
Devyaparādha Kṣamāpana Stotram
देव्यपराधक्षमापनस्तोत्रम
न मन्त्रं नो यन्त्रं तदपि च न जाने स्तुतिमहो
न चाह्वानं ध्यानं तदपि च न जाने स्तुतिकथाः ।
न जाने मुद्रास्ते तदपि च न जाने विलपनं
परं जाने मातस्त्वदनुसरणं क्लेशहरणम् ॥१॥
विधेरज्ञानेन द्रविणविरहेणालसतया
विधेयाशक्यत्वात् तव चरणयोर्या च्युतिरभूत् ।
तदेतत्क्षन्तव्यं जननि सकलोद्धारिणि शिवे
कुपुत्रो जायेत क्वचिदपि कुमाता न भवति ॥२॥
पृथिव्यां पुत्रास्ते जननि बहवः सन्ति सरलाः
परं तेषां मध्ये विरलतरलोऽहं तव सुतः ।
मदीयोऽयं त्यागः समुचितमिदं नो तव शिवे
कुपुत्रो जायेत क्वचिदपि कुमाता न भवति ॥३॥
जगन्मातर्मातस्तव चरणसेवा न रचिता
न वा दत्तं देवि द्रविणमपि भूयस्तव मया ।
तथापि त्वं स्नेहं मयि निरुपमं यत्प्रकुरुषे
कुपुत्रो जायेत क्वचिदपि कुमाता न भवति ॥४॥
परित्यक्त्वा देवान् विविधविधसेवाकुलतया
मया पञ्चाशीतिरधिकमपनीते तु वयसि ।
इदानीं चेन्मातस्तव यदि कृपा नापि भविता
निरालम्बो लम्बोदरजननि कं यामि शरणम् ॥५॥
श्वपाको जल्पाको भवति मधुपाकोपमगिरा
निरातङ्को रङ्को विहरति चिरं कोटिकनकैः ।
तवापर्णे कर्णे विशति मनुवर्णे फलमिदं
जनः को जानीते जननि जपनीयं जपविधौ ॥६॥
चिताभस्मालेपो गरलमशनं दिक्पटधरो
जटाधारी कण्ठे भुजगपतिहारी पशुपतिः ।
कपाली भूतेशो भजति जगदीशैकपदवीं
भवानि त्वत्पाणिग्रहणपरिपाटीफलमिदम् ॥७॥
न मोक्षस्याकाङ्क्षा भवविभववाञ्छापि च न मे
न विज्ञानापेक्षा शशिमुखि सुखेच्छापि न पुनः ।
अतस्त्वां संयाचे जननि जननं यातु मम वै
मृडानी रुद्राणी शिव शिव भवानीति जपतः ॥८॥
नाराधितासि विधिना विविधोपचारैः
किं रुक्षचिन्तनपरैर्न कृतं वचोभिः ।
श्यामे त्वमेव यदि किञ्चन मय्यनाथे
धत्से कृपामुचितमम्ब परं तवैव ॥९॥
आपत्सु मग्नः स्मरणं त्वदीयं करोमि दुर्गे करुणार्णवेशिवे ।
नैतच्छठत्वं मम भावयेथाः क्षुधातृषार्ता जननीं स्मरन्ति ॥१०॥
जगदम्ब विचित्रमत्र किं परिपूर्णा करुणास्ति चेन्मयि ।
अपराधपरम्परावृतं न हि माता समुपेक्षते सुतम् ॥११॥
मत्समः पातकी नास्ति पापघ्नी त्वत्समा न हि ।
एवं ज्ञात्वा महादेवि यथा योग्यं तथा कुरु ॥१२॥
॥ इति श्रीशङ्कराचार्यविरचितं देव्यपराधक्षमापनस्तोत्रं सम्पूर्णम् ॥
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
The hymn expresses a devotee's humility and appeal for the Divine Mother's forgiveness, acknowledging personal limitations and shortcomings. Seeking forgiveness is not simply about wishing away the discomfort of a mistake. It is about becoming honest enough to acknowledge our limitations and sincere enough to learn from them. When we recognise a mistake, we have an opportunity to begin again with greater awareness.
LIFE APPLICATION
Sometimes, pride prevents us from apologising. At other times, we continue blaming ourselves long after we have understood what went wrong. A balanced response is to acknowledge the mistake, apologise where appropriate, make amends if possible, and take practical steps to avoid repeating it. We can learn from the past without allowing it to define our future.
INSPIRATION
Humility does not make us smaller. It gives us the strength to acknowledge our mistakes and the freedom to grow beyond them.
TODAY'S ACTION
Think of one situation in which you may have hurt someone, acted unfairly or neglected a responsibility. If appropriate, take one sincere step towards correcting it or seeking forgiveness.
REFLECTION
Is there something I need to acknowledge, correct or seek forgiveness for so that I can move forward with a lighter heart?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
An Invitation to Sādhana
Day 9 — Navratri Sādhana Conclusion
Theme: Gratitude, Surrender and Carrying Sādhana Forward
Today, we come to the concluding day of our Navratri Sādhana. Over the past eight days, we have turned towards the Divine Mother through traditional prayers and reflected on courage, faith, humility, perseverance, gratitude and the willingness to improve ourselves. Today, let us bring these reflections together through the complete Nityapāṭha. As we pray, let us offer our gratitude for the opportunity to undertake this journey. May the devotion cultivated during these days find expression in our thoughts, our actions and our relationships. Let us conclude this Navratri journey with a quiet mind, a grateful heart and a sincere resolve to continue our daily sādhana.
Gratitude, Surrender and Carrying Sādhana Forward A spiritual practice becomes meaningful when it gradually influences the way we live. The prayers of Navratri have invited us to seek protection, overcome inner obstacles, cultivate faith, face challenges and acknowledge our shortcomings.Today, we reflect on how these qualities can become part of our everyday lives. Gratitude helps us recognise the grace we receive, surrender teaches us to accept what is beyond our control, and sincere effort reminds us to fulfil the responsibilities that are ours.The conclusion of this Navratri journey is also an invitation to continue.
Complete Navratri NityapāṭhaToday, let us undertake the complete traditional Nityapāṭha, following the established sequence of prayers in the chosen edition.The page should contain:The complete Sanskrit text in Devanāgarī.The corresponding transliteration.Clear divisions between the traditional sections, preserving their original order.The traditional prayer should remain unchanged. As decided for BVSP, there will be no separate recitation audio.
UNDERSTANDING THE PRAYER
The Nityapāṭha brings together prayers of devotion, reverence and surrender to the Divine Mother. As we undertake the complete prayer today, we can look back on the themes that have accompanied us through Navratri.
Devī Kavacham reminded us to seek courage and inner steadiness.
Argala Stotram invited us to recognise our inner obstacles.
Kīlakam encouraged sincerity in prayer.
The subsequent prayers guided us towards faith in uncertainty, overcoming negative tendencies, perseverance, reverence and forgiveness. Together, these reflections point towards a simple understanding: devotion is not limited to the time we spend in prayer. It can shape the way we meet difficulties, respond to others, acknowledge our mistakes and fulfil our duties. Let the complete Nityapāṭha be an expression of our gratitude and our renewed commitment to live with greater awareness.
LIFE APPLICATION
As we return to our daily routines after Navratri, we can carry forward the spirit of this sādhana in small, practical ways. When worry arises, pause and respond with greater steadiness. When an obstacle appears, examine our own contribution before placing blame. When facing difficulty, persevere with patience and discernment. When someone helps us, express genuine gratitude. When we make a mistake, acknowledge it and make an effort to correct it. We do not need to transform every aspect of our lives at once. One sincere change, practised consistently, can become the beginning of meaningful inner growth.
INSPIRATION
Let our prayer become a way of living.May the faith we bring to the Divine Mother become courage in difficult moments, humility in our interactions, gratitude for what we receive and sincerity in the duties we perform. The Navratri journey concludes today, but the opportunity for sādhana continues every day.
TODAY'S ACTION
Choose one quality from our Navratri journey that you wish to carry forward—courage, patience, faith, humility, gratitude or forgiveness. Make a conscious effort to practise that quality in one situation today. Before the day ends, take a moment to reflect on how you applied it and what you learnt.Let this be your personal resolve as you conclude the Navratri Sādhana.
REFLECTION
What is one quality from this Navratri journey that I will consciously carry into my everyday life?
SUMMARY AUDIO OF THE DAY
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle
into your heart.”
Navaratri NityapāṭhaVijayadashami — The Journey Continues
Theme: Gratitude • Surrender • Everyday Sādhana
A Moment of Gratitude
As we complete the Navaratri Nityapāṭha, let us pause with gratitude for the opportunity to pray, reflect and turn our attention towards the Divine Mother. Through these prayers, we have contemplated courage, faith, sincerity, perseverance, reverence, forgiveness and the transformation of our inner lives.
1. The true value of prayer unfolds when these qualities gradually find expression in our thoughts, words and actions.
2. Carry the Sādhana Forward On this auspicious day of Vijayadashami, let us reflect:
Which quality from this sādhana do I wish to carry into my daily life?
How can I express that quality through one small, sincere action?
Can I continue to approach my daily duties with greater awareness, humility and devotion?
There is no need to make a grand resolution. One sincere step, practised consistently, can become a meaningful part of our spiritual journey.
3. Our Resolve: Let us offer our prayers with gratitude and continue our personal Vaiyaktika Sādhana with sincerity. May our daily practice help us grow in inner steadiness, discernment, compassion and devotion.
The prayer concludes, but the journey of sādhana continues.
May the blessings of the Divine Mother guide us in our thoughts, choices and actions.
ॐ श्री गुरुभ्यो नमः
“Close your eyes, put on your headphones, and let the wisdom of today’s Sādhana gently settle into your heart.”
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