Prathamam Shailputri cha Dvitayam Brahmacharini
The phrase “Prathamam Shaiputri cha Dvitayam Brahmacharini” is part of the Durga Saptashati, a
Hindu scripture that narrates the glory and exploits of Goddess Durga. It’s a part of a longer
invocation from Hindu scriptures related to the nine different forms of the Goddess Durga,
worshipped during the nine-day festival called Navratri.
This particular line refers to the first two forms or aspects of Goddess Durga.
- Shaiputri: This means the first form or aspect is known as “Shaiputri.
Meaning: Daughter of the Mountains (Shail means mountain)
Appearance: Often depicted wearing white, holding a lotus flower and riding a bull.
Qualities: Represents knowledge, wisdom, and purity. - Brahmacharini: The second form or aspect is called “Brahmacharini”.
Meaning: One who practices austerity (Brahmacharya)
Appearance: Often depicted wearing red, holding a trident, and standing barefoot.
Qualities: Represents perseverance, dedication, and spiritual discipline.
Chanting this verse during Navratri is believed to invoke her blessings for knowledge, strength, and
spiritual growth.
- Devotional Connection: Chanting this mantra helps establish a devotional connection with
Goddess Durga. Devotees believe that expressing reverence through chanting can bring spiritual
fulfilment and a sense of closeness to the divine. - Spiritual Protection: Devotees often turn to Goddess Durga for protection from negative energies,
obstacles, and challenges. Chanting this mantra is believed to invoke the protective energy of the
goddess. - Clarity of Mind: Mantras are considered powerful tools for calming the mind and enhancing
mental clarity. Regular chanting is believed to bring focus, reduce stress, and promote a sense of
inner peace. - Strength and Courage: The recitation of Durga mantras, including those from the Durga
Saptashati, is thought to in still strength and courage. Devotees seek the goddess’s blessings to
overcome difficulties and face challenges with determination. - Spiritual Progress: Mantras are seen as a means of spiritual growth and evolution. Chanting
regularly is believed to purify the mind, body, and soul, facilitating spiritual progress on the path of
self-realization.
Therefore, the phrase celebrates the two initial aspects of Goddess Durga, emphasizing her
multifaceted nature and the different qualities she embodies.