What the tradition says
Recitation of the 700-verse Devi-mahatmya from the Markandeya Purana, addressed to the goddess Durga. Traditional texts pair it with offerings of red flowers and the navavarana-puja. The canonical Shakta protection rite, often performed across the nine nights of Navaratri.
What it addresses
- Mars
- Ketu
Traditional timing
- Sharadiya Navaratri (Ashwina-shukla 1–9) and Chaitra Navaratri are canonical.
- Each of the nine days targets a specific aspect of the goddess.
- Ashtami and Navami are emphasised as the culminating days.
Source
Devi-mahatmya (Markandeya Purana ch. 81–93)
Common questions
- What is Durga-saptashati-paath?
- Recitation of the 700-verse Devi-mahatmya from the Markandeya Purana, addressed to the goddess Durga. Traditional texts pair it with offerings of red flowers and the navavarana-puja. The canonical Shakta protection rite, often performed across the nine nights of Navaratri.
- What does Durga-saptashati-paath address?
- Traditionally associated with Mars, Ketu.
- When is Durga-saptashati-paath traditionally performed?
- Sharadiya Navaratri (Ashwina-shukla 1–9) and Chaitra Navaratri are canonical. Each of the nine days targets a specific aspect of the goddess. Ashtami and Navami are emphasised as the culminating days.
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