9 Avatars of Goddess Durga: Navratri 2024 Worship Guide
Navratri, which literally means ‘9 nights’, is a powerful period for spiritual upliftment. Each of these nights is dedicated to a unique form of Goddess Durga, symbolizing different aspects of life and spirituality. These 9 Avatars of Maa Durga are worshipped across India during the auspicious Navratri festival.
Shailputri (First Avatar)
First Day of Navratri (Pratipada)
The 1st night of Navratri is dedicated to Ma Shailputri. ‘Shail’ means mountain, and she is the daughter of the King of Mountains, Himavan. Shailputri is depicted with two hands, holding a trident and a lotus, and she rides a bull. This form of Maa Durga symbolizes strength and is revered on the first day of Navratri.
Bhramcharni (Second Avatar)
Second Day of Navratri (Dwitiya)
Ma Bhramcharni is worshipped on the second night of Navratri. She holds a water pot (Kumbha) and a rosary. This form of Durga symbolizes devotion, love, and wisdom. Devotees believe that Bhramcharni helps them attain great knowledge and wisdom during Navratri.
Chandraghanta (Third Avatar)
Third Day of Navratri (Tritiya)
Ma Chandraghanta is worshipped on the third day of Navratri. She is depicted riding a tiger, with 10 hands holding weapons, and three eyes. Chandraghanta represents supreme bliss and knowledge and bestows peace and serenity upon her devotees.
Kushmanda (Fourth Avatar)
Fourth Day of Navratri (Chaturthi)
Ma Kushmanda is worshipped on the fourth night of Navratri. She has eight arms and holds various weapons and a rosary. Her radiant energy is believed to symbolize the creation of the universe, and her blessings bring clarity and positivity to devotees.
Skandmata (Fifth Avatar)
Fifth Day of Navratri (Panchami)
Ma Skandmata is worshipped on the fifth day of Navratri. She rides a lion, carrying her son Skanda in her lap. Devotees believe that Skandmata’s blessings bring immense knowledge and wisdom, transforming even the most ignorant into enlightened beings.
Kaatyayani (Sixth Avatar)
Sixth Day of Navratri (Sasthi)
Ma Kaatyayani is worshipped on the sixth day of Navratri. She is depicted with a golden complexion and rides a lion. This form of Durga is known for battling sin and evil forces. Kaatyayani helps devotees overcome adversities and gain strength and courage.
Kaalratri (Seventh Avatar)
Seventh Day of Navratri (Saptami)
Ma Kaalratri is worshipped on the seventh night of Navratri. She has a dark complexion and rides a donkey. Kaalratri is the destroyer of darkness and ignorance. Devotees pray to her for protection from negative forces and obstacles.
Mahagauri (Eighth Avatar)
Eighth Day of Navratri (Ashtami)
Ma Mahagauri is worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri. She is known for her fair complexion and peaceful nature. Mahagauri bestows peace and compassion and is depicted holding a drum and a trident, often riding a bull.
Siddhiratri (Ninth Avatar)
Ninth Day of Navratri (Navami)
Ma Siddhiratri is worshipped on the final day of Navratri. She is depicted sitting on a lotus, holding four arms. Siddhiratri is believed to fulfill all the desires of her devotees, bestowing them with spiritual wisdom and supernatural powers.
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