Durga Chalisa in English – Lyrics, Meaning and Explanation

Chalisa Meaning

Your formless radiance spreads its light through all three worlds.

The moon-like forehead, vast face, red eyes, and arched brows reveal an awe-inspiring divine presence.

The Mother’s form is exceedingly beautiful, and those who behold it receive profound joy.

You brought forth the power that sustains the world and gave food and wealth for its nourishment.

As Annapurna you feed the world, and you are also the primordial youthful beauty.

At dissolution you end all things; as Gauri you are beloved of Shiva and Shankara.

Shiva, yogis, and sages sing your virtues, while Brahma and Vishnu meditate on you continually.

Taking the form of Saraswati, you grant right understanding and guide sages and seers.

As Narasimha’s power, O Mother, you manifested dramatically from the pillar.

You protected Prahlada and ended the tyranny of Hiranyakashipu, sending him from this world.

As Lakshmi you dwell in the world, inseparably united with Shri Narayana.

You delight in the ocean of milk; O ocean of compassion, fulfill the heart’s worthy hope.

At Hinglaj you are worshipped as Bhavani, and your immeasurable glory cannot be fully described.

You are Matangi, Dhumavati, Bhuvaneshwari, and Bagala, the mother who bestows well-being.

You are Bhairavi and Tara who carries the world across suffering, and Chhinnamasta who removes worldly sorrow.

Bhavani shines upon the lion, while heroic Hanuman moves before her as an attendant.

The skull-bowl and sword gleam in your hands, and even death itself flees at their sight.

Your weapons and trident shine, striking fear into the hearts of hostile forces.

You are enthroned at Nagarkot, and your renown resounds across the three worlds.

You destroyed the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha and overcame Raktabija and Shankhasura.

The proud ruler Mahishasura burdened the earth with wrongdoing and left it in distress.

Taking the terrible form of Kali, you destroyed him together with his army.

Whenever saints were surrounded by grave danger, Mother, you came to their aid.

Your glory fills the heavenly realms, where those under your protection remain free from grief.

Your flame shines at Jwala, where women and men worship you continually.

Sorrow and poverty do not approach those who lovingly sing your praise with devotion.

One who meditates on you wholeheartedly is released from the binding cycle of birth and death.

Yogis, gods, and sages declare that spiritual union is impossible without your power.

Shankara performed extraordinary austerity and mastered desire, anger, and every impulse.

Yet while absorbed day and night in meditation, he did not remember your power for a time.

Unable to grasp the mystery of Shakti, he regretted its absence when that power withdrew.

He then sought your refuge, proclaimed your glory, and cried victory to Jagadamba Bhavani.

The primal Mother was pleased and restored his power without delay.

The devotee tells the Mother of overwhelming suffering and asks who but her can remove it.

Hope and craving cause constant pain, while foolish hostile forces intimidate the mind.

O Queen, destroy these enemies; the devotee remembers Bhavani with one-pointed attention.

Compassionate Mother, show grace and bring joy by granting prosperity and spiritual accomplishment.

As long as life remains, may the devotee receive your mercy and continue proclaiming your glory.

Whoever sings the Durga Chalisa receives happiness and ultimately attains the highest spiritual state.

Knowing Devadas to be under your protection, O Jagadamba Bhavani, respond with compassion.