Sharadiya Navratri 2025 began on October 22nd, and during these nine sacred days, devotees worship the nine forms of Maa Durga with deep devotion and discipline. Among the various rituals, reciting the Durga Saptashati is considered one of the most powerful ways to seek the blessings of the Goddess. This scripture, divided into 13 chapters, describes the divine victories of Maa Durga over demons, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
It is believed that properly reciting the Durga Saptashati can remove sorrows, obstacles, and bring peace, prosperity, and happiness. However, if mistakes are made during its recitation, the devotee may not receive the complete benefits.
Let’s understand the rules and mistakes to avoid while reciting Durga Saptashati:
Rules for Reciting Durga Saptashati
1. Purification and Dress Code
Before beginning the recitation, the devotee should:
Take a bath and wear clean red or yellow clothes, as these colors are considered auspicious during Navratri.
Sprinkle Ganga Jal (holy water) in the puja space to purify the environment.
Meditate on Goddess Durga with sincerity and devotion.
2. Begin with Mantras, Not Direct Recitation
Never start Durga Saptashati directly after meditation.
First chant the purifying mantra:
“Om apavitrah pavitro va sarvavastham gato’pi va. Yah smaret pundarikaksham sa bahyabhyantarah shuchih.”
This invocation ensures purity of mind, body, and surroundings before reciting the text.
3. Importance of Kavach, Keelak, and Argala
The recitation must begin with Durga Kavach, Keelak Stotra, and Argala Stotra.
These verses act as spiritual shields, unlocking the full power of the Durga Saptashati.
Without them, simply reading the 13 chapters does not yield complete results.
4. Recitation Method (All 13 Chapters Together)
The scriptures recommend reciting all 13 chapters in a single sitting for the most auspicious results.
If that is not possible, the recitation can be divided into three parts:
First session: Chapter 1
Second session: Chapters 2–4
Third session: Chapters 5–13
This ensures the complete cycle of devotion and blessings.
5. Alternative Method (During Navratri)
If a devotee cannot recite in one or three sittings:
They must first take a pledge before Maa Durga to complete all 13 chapters within the nine days of Navratri.
This way, the vrat (fast) and sadhana still remain fruitful, and the blessings of the Goddess are received.
6. Closing the Recitation
After completing the 13 chapters:
Always pray for forgiveness for any errors made during the recitation.
Recite the Ratri Suktam at the end to conclude the ritual in a proper manner.
Benefits of Proper Durga Saptashati Recitation
Removes sorrows and negativity from life.
Grants peace, happiness, and prosperity.
Brings divine blessings for the well-being and longevity of children.
Strengthens spiritual discipline and devotion during Navratri.
