Chandi homam
Chandi homam is the homam of Devi, performed with the parayanam of the Durga Saptashati and the offerings that follow each chapter. It is kept in Navaratri, for a family under a long affliction, and at the opening of a new undertaking. The Navachandi and Shatachandi forms are performed with the number of purohits each requires.
The Saptashati is seven hundred verses, and the homam follows the parayanam chapter by chapter, so this is a long karyam by nature and not one to be compressed. The simple Chandi runs a full day. Navachandi takes nine reciters, Shatachandi a hundred recitations and a proportionate gathering of purohits, and for those we agree the venue and the numbers well beforehand.
Families keep it during Sharannavaratri above all, and otherwise when a household has been under a weight that has not lifted — illness, litigation, a business that will not turn. Devi is invoked for strength rather than for a particular gain, and we say that plainly to families who come expecting a transaction.
No prices are listed here. Each karyam is quoted on the phone, once we know the date, the place and the custom your family follows.
Questions about this karyam
How long does it take?
A full day for the simple Chandi homam. Navachandi and Shatachandi run longer and need more purohits; we tell you the hours when we know which you want.
Can it be done at home?
The simple form can, where there is room for the kundam and the reciters. For Navachandi and above a hall or a temple is better, and we will arrange it.
When is it best kept?
Sharannavaratri above all, and Vasanta Navaratri. Outside those, any Friday or Ashtami the panchangam allows.
How many purohits are needed?
Four to six for the simple Chandi homam. Navachandi takes nine reciters, and Shatachandi a hundred recitations, which we divide among the purohits we bring. We give you the number when you tell us the form, because it is the number that mostly decides both the hours and the offering.