Devi Mahatmyam - Argala Stotram

Sage Markandeya - The author-composer of ‘Devi Mahatmyam', Bows down before the great Goddess And begins his devotional song. Markandeya hails the great Goddess: "O Victorious Devi, Chamunde! Victory unto You! The remover of all sufferings, pain and passion Omnipresent Devi! Dark and awe-inspiring I bow down before you with folded hands! " O Devi! You are Jayanti - always a winner You are Mangala - of extreme auspiciousness! You are Kaali - the process of dissolution during deluge You are Bhadra Kaali - of happiness and serenity You are Kapaalini- one who resides in the forehead You are Durga - one who lifts up devotees unscathed from the sea of turmoil! You are Shiva - the true nature of pure consciousness, You are Kshama - the compassionate and merciful, You are Dhaatri - the bestower and sustainer of all beings, You are Svaha -one who pleases Gods, You are Svadha - one who pleases the forefathers, I bow down before all these veritable and powerful forms of Devi!