Shardiya Navratri, one of the most important festivals in Hinduism started on October 3, 2024. This festival lasts for nine days and devotees worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, culminating with Dussehra on October 12, 2024. The sixth day of Navratri is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Katyayani, the sixth manifestation of Goddess Durga.
Goddess Katyayani known for her strength and valor, embodies the fierce energy of the divine feminine, celebrated for defeating the demon king Mahishasura. Goddess Katyayani, also known as Mahishasurmardini, symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Her form is often depicted a lion, symbolizing courage and power. In her four hands, she carries a lotus and a sword, representing purity and strength, while the Abhaya and Varada mudras convey protection and blessings.
This powerful imagery reflects her association with wisdom, harmony, virtue, strength, fertility and trust. Worshipping Goddess Katyayani is believed to purify sins, drive away spirits, and remove obstacles from devotees lives. The Goddess is particularly cherished by unmarried women who observe fasting on this day, praying for a suitable life partner. The traditional offering for this day includes Makhana ladoo, a sweet delicacy prepared to honour the Maa.
On this day, the Brahma Muhurta begins at 4:44 AM and ends at 5:34 AM. The Abhijit Muhurat runs from 11:43 AM to 12:28 AM, while the Vijaya Muhurata is observed from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM. These timings provide devotees with the perfect opportunity to perform rituals and seek the Goddess blessings. Each day of Navratri is associated with a specific color, and the sixth day is represented by green. The green color symbolizes fertility, growth, and balance, reflecting the qualities that Goddess Katyanyani embodies.
Comments