The sixth day of Navratri 2025 falls on September 27 and is dedicated to the worship of Maa Katyayani, one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The nine-day Hindu festival, which began on September 22, will conclude on October 2. During this time, devotees honor the nine divine incarnations of Goddess Durga, known as the Navdurgas, each associated with unique attributes and blessings.
Maa Katyayani: The Warrior Goddess of Courage and Victory
Maa Katyayani, worshipped on the sixth day of Navratri, is known for her association with courage and the victory over negativity. Devotees believe that by honoring her, they receive blessings for harmony in their lives and better prospects in marriage.
In Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati assumed the form of Maa Katyayani to destroy the demon Mahishasura. This form of the goddess is considered to be one of her most powerful, representing strength and fearlessness. As the Warrior Goddess, Maa Katyayani is known for her ability to overcome obstacles and defeat evil forces.
Key Attributes of Maa Katyayani
Form: Goddess Katyayani is depicted riding a mighty lion and holding a lotus flower and sword in her left hands. In her right hands, she is seen making the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of protection) and Varada Mudra (gesture of blessing).
Significance: Maa Katyayani is revered for her ability to bring balance and peace, especially in relationships and marriage. She is believed to govern the planet Brihaspati, associated with wisdom and harmony.
Origin: Maa Katyayani was born in the home of Sage Katya, and her name is derived from his name. Hence, she is known as "Katyayani" in honor of her birth.
Puja Timings and Shubh Muhurat for Day 6
According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious timings for performing the Shashti Puja on September 27 are as follows:
Shukla Shashthi begins: 12:03 PM, September 27
Shukla Shashthi ends: 2:27 PM, September 28
Anuradha Nakshatra: Up to 1:08 AM, September 28
Brahma Muhurta: 4:36 AM to 5:24 AM
Abhijit Muhurta: 11:48 AM to 12:36 PM
Vijaya Muhurta: 2:12 PM to 3:00 PM
Amrit Kalam: 1:26 PM to 3:14 PM
Navratri Day 6 Colour: Grey
On the sixth day of Navratri, the color associated with Maa Katyayani is grey. This color represents balanced emotions and is believed to keep a person grounded. Wearing grey while performing the puja is said to bless devotees with inner strength and equilibrium.
Bhog, Puja Rituals, and Samagri
For the Shasthi Puja, devotees should:
Wake up early and take a bath to purify themselves.
Clean the worship area and wear new clothes in the shade of grey.
Light a diya (lamp) and offer garlands, vermillion, and shringar items to Maa Katyayani.
Offer bhog (food offerings) including meetha paan (sweet betel leaves), five seasonal fruits, and simple sweets like honey. These offerings symbolize harmony and balanced energy.
Recite the Durga Saptashati Path and perform a hawan (fire ritual) to invoke Maa Katyayani's blessings.
Navratri Day 6 Mantras and Prayers
Mantra: Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah
Prarthana (Prayer): Chandrahasojjvalakara Shardulavaravahana. Katyayani Shubham Dadyad Devi Danavaghatini.
Stuti (Praise): Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Katyayani Rupena Samsthita. Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.
On this sixth day of Navratri, as devotees honor Maa Katyayani, they seek her divine protection, strength, and blessings for marital harmony and personal victory. By following the puja rituals and embracing the color grey, they aim to invoke her grace for a life full of balance, courage, and fulfillment.
Tags: Durga Puja
