Keelakam — Benefits & How to Chant
कीलकम्
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Keelakam
The third of the three angas (Kavach, Argala, Keelaka) recited before the Durga Saptashati
Reveals the 'keelaka' (key) that unlocks the full power of the Saptashati recitation
Promised to grant every accomplishment (siddhi), sovereignty, good fortune and health
Said to free the devotee from fear and untimely death and to grant final liberation (moksha)
Recited especially during Navratri and on Ashtami and the dark-fortnight Chaturdashi
How to Chant Keelakam
Instructions
Sit facing east or north before an image of Durga. In the traditional order, recite the Devi Kavach, then the Argala Stotram, then this Keelakam, and only then the thirteen chapters of the Saptashati. The Keelakam 'unlocks' the recitation so that it bears its full fruit.
Origin & History
Source: Markandeya Purana, Devi Mahatmyam (Durga Saptashati)
Author: Sage Markandeya (traditional)
The Keelaka Stotram is the third of the three angas — with the Devi Kavach and the Argala Stotram — recited before the thirteen chapters of the Durga Saptashati. The keelaka is the 'pin' with which Shiva fastened the Saptashati's power; reciting this hymn unfastens it so the recitation bears full fruit.