Chaitra Navratri Special – Benefits of Different Chapters of Durga Saptashati

Navratri is the time for worshiping Goddess Durga. The most effective way to please her is through the recitation of Durga Saptashati. Among the Hindu scriptures, the Puranas hold great significance, and the Markandeya Purana is considered especially important. The Saptashati, which is a part of the Markandeya Purana, consists of 700 verses describing the compassionate, motherly, and courageous aspects of Goddess Durga. Reciting the Durga Saptashati is believed to fulfill all desires and provide benefits on physical, spiritual, and material levels. It is also said to eliminate inauspicious influences from one’s life. However, due to its length, many people prefer to recite specific chapters of the Saptashati.

Benefits of Reciting Durga Saptashati: Siddha Kunjika Stotra

According to the Rudrayamal Tantra, reciting the Siddha Kunjika Stotra also brings the same benefits as reciting Durga Saptashati. In some places, it is mentioned that reciting the fourth chapter alone offers the same benefits as completing the entire Saptashati. The scriptures say that reciting the fourth chapter helps one receive the blessings of Goddess Durga. This chapter removes many troubles from one’s life. If you prefer to recite only the Kunjika Stotra, make sure to do at least 108 recitations, followed by a Havan for the Goddess. After the Havan, offer prasad like kheer or halwa to the Goddess.

Benefits of Each Chapter of Durga Saptashati

First Chapter: Reciting the first chapter eliminates all worries.
Second Chapter: The second chapter removes enemy obstacles and brings success in legal matters.
Third Chapter: Reciting the third chapter eradicates opposition and enemies.
Fourth Chapter: The fourth chapter brings the fortune of having a vision of Goddess Durga.
Fifth Chapter: The fifth chapter fulfills one’s desires.
Sixth Chapter: Reciting the sixth chapter removes sorrow, poverty, and fear.
Seventh Chapter: The seventh chapter brings good fortune and ensures the success of endeavors.
Eighth Chapter: The eighth chapter fills your life with love and friendship.
Ninth Chapter: The ninth chapter enhances progeny and resolves various life problems.
Tenth Chapter: The tenth chapter invokes the special grace of Goddess Durga and increases wealth.
Eleventh Chapter: The eleventh chapter grants all material pleasures.
Twelfth Chapter: The twelfth chapter is believed to bring all types of benefits.
Thirteenth Chapter: The thirteenth chapter grants liberation (moksha).

Guidelines for Reciting Saptashati

There are some key points to keep in mind while reciting Durga Saptashati:
The recitation should be performed by someone who has established a Kalash in their home during Navratri.
Do not hold the Durga Saptashati book in your hand while reciting. Instead, place it on a clean cloth, preferably red, on a clean platform.
Perform a small puja with kumkum, rice, and flowers before starting the recitation.
Apply a tilak on your forehead before beginning the recitation.
Before and after completing the recitation, chant the “Nirvana Mantra” – “Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche”.
Your mind and body should be pure before reciting the Saptashati, so take a bath and wear clean clothes.
Ensure the pronunciation of each word is correct and clear. Do not recite in a loud voice, and if you find the Sanskrit difficult, you can recite it in Hindi.

By following these guidelines and reciting the Durga Saptashati with devotion, one can receive immense blessings from Goddess Durga.