Yudhishthira Krita Durga Stotram — Benefits & How to Chant
युधिष्ठिरकृत दुर्गा स्तोत्रम्
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Yudhishthira Krita Durga Stotram
Recited for divine protection during times of danger, concealment and difficulty
Invokes the Goddess as the slayer of demons and the guardian of the righteous
Said to deliver the devotee from sin and calamity, as it delivered the Pandavas
Bestows victory, courage and success in difficult and uncertain undertakings
A prayer of refuge (sharanagati) blessed by the protection granted to the Pandavas
Cultivates faith in the Mother as the unfailing shelter of those who remember her
How to Chant Yudhishthira Krita Durga Stotram
Instructions
As Yudhishthira did when entering Virata's city, recite the hymn with folded hands and a heart seeking the Mother's shelter and protection. It is especially suited to recitation before entering upon any difficult, hidden or dangerous task, or when one feels in need of refuge. Meditate on the Goddess bearing sword and shield, the sister of Krishna and the slayer of demons, and surrender to her as the giver of protection and victory.
Spiritual Significance
The Mahabharata relates that the Goddess, appearing before Yudhishthira, promised that by her grace the Pandavas would remain unrecognised in Virata's city and would soon regain their kingdom by vanquishing the Kauravas. Tradition holds that those who recite this hymn with faith receive the same protection — safe passage through danger and the Mother's shelter in their hour of need.
Origin & History
Source: Mahabharata, Virata Parva (Pandava-Pravesha Parva)
Author: Veda Vyasa (the hymn spoken by Yudhishthira)
Having completed twelve years of forest exile, the Pandavas were bound to spend a thirteenth year in concealment, during which their discovery would have cost them another twelve years of banishment. As they approached the city of King Virata to live there in disguise, Yudhishthira, the eldest and most righteous of the brothers, turned his mind to the Divine Mother and invoked the Goddess Durga for protection. He glorified her as the daughter born in the house of Nanda the cowherd, the sister of Krishna, the one who terrified Kamsa and slays the Asuras, the auspicious bearer of sword and shield, and the unfailing refuge who lifts her devotees from the mire of sin. Pleased with his devotion, the Goddess appeared before him, granted the Pandavas her protection through the difficult year, and assured them of final victory and the recovery of their kingdom.