Bhubaneswar, Oct 6: Navratri, one of the most significant and auspicious Hindu festivals, is celebrated with great fervor throughout the country. This nine-day extravaganza is a tribute to Goddess Durga and encompasses various rituals and traditions. Devotees of Maa Durga meticulously observe these customs, which include fasting (vrats), culinary delights, recitation of sacred verses (shlokas), household cleaning, and the donning of new attire.
Additionally, each day of Navratri venerates one of the nine avatars of Maa Durga, collectively known as Navdurga or the Nine Forms of Durga. The concept of Navdurga originates from Goddess Parvati, revered as the supreme power among all Goddesses. Devotees pay homage to these avatars, seeking prosperity in their homes and lives.
Goddess Parvati embodies the vital feminine energy in the universe and is the central deity of Shaivism. She goes by various names, each with its unique significance, such as Maa Kali, Maa Tara, Maa Sadasi, Maa Dhumavati, Maa Durga, Maa Sherawali, Maa Bhairavi, Maa Vidya Kamala, Maa Matangi, Maa Uma, and more. The nine-day festival revolves around the worship of these avatars and culminates in the immersion of the goddess' idols on Vijay Dashami.
The nine days are dedicated to the worship of nine incarnations (avatars) of Goddess Durga, each holding its own importance and symbolism. To add to the festive spirit, each day is associated with a specific color, and people worldwide enthusiastically adhere to this color code.
The Nine Avatars of Maa Durga
These nine avatars of Maa Durga represent distinct qualities and powers. Devotees observe Navratri as a profound spiritual practice, aiming to invoke these divine energies for blessings and protection.
Shailaputri - The Daughter of the Mountains: Shailaputri, the first form of Maa Durga, is often depicted riding a bull while carrying a trident and a lotus. She symbolizes the power of mountains and nature, bringing stability, strength, and prosperity to her devotees' lives. Shailaputri is associated with the Muladhara Chakra, representing the foundation of existence.
Brahmacharini - The Ascetic Goddess: Brahmacharini, the embodiment of penance and devotion, is portrayed as a divine goddess with two hands holding a rosary and a water pot (kamandalu), dressed in white. Devotees seek her blessings for spiritual knowledge, self-discipline, and perseverance.
Chandraghanta - The Warrior Goddess: Named after the crescent moon-shaped ornament on her forehead, Chandraghanta has ten hands, wields various weapons, and rides a tiger. She symbolizes bravery and courage, offering protection from enemies and obstacles. Her energy corresponds to the Manipura Chakra, representing willpower.
Kushmanda - The Creator of the Universe: Kushmanda is often depicted with eight or ten hands, holding various weapons and a rosary, while riding a lioness. As the creator of the universe, her worship is believed to bestow creativity, energy, and well-being. She governs the Anahata Chakra, associated with love and compassion.
Skandamata - The Mother of Skanda (Lord Kartikeya): Skandamata cradles her son, Lord Kartikeya, in her lap and has four hands, two of which hold lotus flowers. Devotees pray to her for the welfare and protection of their children, symbolizing motherly love and protection. Her energy is associated with the Vishuddha Chakra, governing communication and expression.
Katyayani - The Warrior Goddess Born of Sage Katyayan: Katyayani is a fierce goddess depicted with a sword and mounted on a lion. She is revered for her warrior-like qualities and her ability to vanquish evil forces. Worshippers seek her blessings for courage and victory over adversaries, and she governs the Ajna Chakra, related to intuition and inner wisdom.
Kaalratri - The Fierce and Dark Goddess: Kaalratri is a fearsome avatar with a dark complexion, disheveled hair, and a terrifying appearance, holding a sword and a noose. She signifies the destruction of ignorance and darkness, offering protection from fear and negativity. Kaalratri is associated with the Sahasrara Chakra, representing enlightenment and spiritual awakening.
Mahagauri - The Pure and Serene Goddess: Mahagauri, depicted as a radiant and pure goddess often dressed in white, possesses four arms and holds a trident and a damaru (drum). Worshipping Mahagauri is believed to purify the soul and bring peace and serenity. She represents purity and spiritual growth, with her energy corresponding to the Anahata Chakra, related to love and compassion.
Siddhidatri - The Granter of Boons and Supernatural Powers: Siddhidatri has four hands and is often depicted riding a lion, holding a discus, mace, lotus, and a conch shell. Devotees seek her blessings for spiritual knowledge, wisdom, and the attainment of supernatural powers (siddhis). She is associated with the Muladhara Chakra, the root of all chakras.
How Each Avatar is Worshipped During Navratri?
Throughout Navratri, devotees engage in dedicated worship of each of the nine avatars of Maa Durga, adhering to specific rituals:
Shailaputri: The first day involves offerings of flowers, milk, and sweets, along with the recitation of the "Shailaputri Stuti" and the performance of aarti.
Brahmacharini: On the second day, devotees offer water, fruits, and recite the "Brahmacharini Stuti" while meditating on the goddess's form. Aarti and bhajans are also part of the worship.
Chandraghanta: The third day features offerings of milk, kheer (rice pudding), and jasmine flowers, accompanied by the recitation of the "Chandraghanta Stuti" and the lighting of incense and lamps during aarti.
Kushmanda: On the fourth day, devotees offer malpua (sweet pancakes) and sindoor (vermillion) while chanting the "Kushmanda Stuti" and performing aarti.
Skandamata: The fifth day witnesses offerings of bananas, milk, and honey. Devotees chant the "Skandamata Stuti" and light incense during aarti.
Katyayani: On the sixth day, devotees offer honey and other sweets, recite the "Katyayani Stuti," and conduct aarti.
Kaalratri: The seventh day involves offerings of jaggery and sesame seeds, along with the recitation of the "Kaalratri Stuti" and the offering of aarti.
Mahagauri: On the eighth day, offerings include coconut and sugar, accompanied by the "Mahagauri Stuti" and aarti.
Siddhidatri, on the ninth day, is worshipped with offerings of sesame seeds and ghee. Devotees recite the "Siddhidatri Stuti" and conduct the aarti ceremony.
