
Aigiri Nandini | Mahishasura Mardini Stotram | English Translation | Audiobook Narration TTS
Translation shared by www.spiritualfeed.net Aigiri Nandini is a hymn dedicated to Goddess Durga, celebrating her divine power, beauty, and role as the destroyer of evil. It vividly recounts her battles against demons like Mahishasura, Shumbha, and Nishumbha, highlighting her celestial origins, connection to Lord Shiva, and presence in sacred mountains such as the Himalayas and Vindhyas. She is depicted as both a fierce warrior and a compassionate mother, offering protection and grace to her devotees. The hymn emphasizes her cosmic dance, divine weapons, and the war drums that herald her battles. Durga is worshiped with great devotion during Navaratri, a festival celebrating her victory over Mahishasura and the ultimate triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (evil). KEY • Aigiri Nandini – A title of Goddess Durga meaning “daughter of the mountain,” referring to her as Parvati, daughter of Himavan, King of the Himalayas. • Daughter of Nanda – Possibly an allusion to Durga’s Yogamaya form in Krishna’s birth story, where she appeared in Nanda’s household. • Vindhya Mountains – A sacred mountain range associated with Durga’s presence and worship. • Mahishasura – A buffalo-demon who terrorized the heavens before being slain by Durga, a battle commemorated during Navaratri. • Shumbha and Nishumbha – Two demon brothers whom Durga defeated after they sought to possess her. • Raktabija – A demon whose spilled blood created clones of himself; Durga manifested Kali to drink his blood and prevent his regeneration. • Pramatha – A celestial attendant of Lord Shiva who aided Durga in battle. • “Dhumi, Dhumi” – A reference to the war drums beaten by the gods during Durga’s battles. • Fourfold Army – The traditional division of an ancient Hindu military force into infantry, cavalry, chariots, and elephants. • Anklets and Moon-like Face – Descriptions of Durga’s divine beauty, emphasizing her radiance and celestial presence. • Captivating Braided Hair – Symbolizes her elegance, divine femininity, and untamed power, often depicted flowing wildly in battle. • Royal Elephant in Rut – A metaphor for Durga’s unstoppable force in battle, likening her to a majestic and powerful elephant. • Three Worlds – The cosmic realms of Bhūloka (Earth), Swargaloka (Heaven), and Pātāla (Underworld), all of which she protects. • Lotus Feet – A phrase signifying divine grace and the auspicious nature of the Goddess. • Indra’s Court – The celestial realm ruled by Indra, where divine beings reside. • Improper Prayer Still Being Accepted – Reflects the Hindu belief that devotion is more important than ritual perfection. LEARN MORE • Devi Mahatmya (Markandeya Purana) – The primary scripture detailing Durga’s battles against Mahishasura, Shumbha, and Nishumbha. • Skanda Purana – Contains stories of Parvati, Durga, and Kartikeya’s battle with Tharakasura. • Durga Saptashati – A key text within the Devi Mahatmya, elaborating on Durga’s divine victories. • Bhagavata Purana – Mentions Durga’s Yogamaya form in Krishna’s birth narrative. • Kalika Purana – Explores the fierce aspects of Durga, including her manifestation as Kali.