Navratri 2023: Nine-Day Journey through Goddess Durga’s Avatars
Navratri, the vibrant Hindu festival celebrated nationwide, pays homage to Goddess Durga, the embodiment of Adi Parashakti, the supreme goddess. This year, the festivities span from October 15 to October 24.
Navdurga, the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, take center stage during this sacred festival. Each night, a different avatar is revered, with devotees seeking blessings for prosperity.
- Shailputri (October 15): Known as the daughter of the mountain king Himalaya, she symbolizes wealth and success, riding a bull and holding a lotus and trident.
- Brahmacharini (October 16): The unmarried form of Goddess Parvati, she holds a Kamandal and Japa Mala. Devotees offer white flowers and attire to honor her preference for white.
- Chandraghanta (October 17): The wedded form of Goddess Parvati, she adorns her forehead with half of the moon (Chandra) and rides a tigress, wielding various weapons to combat evil.
- Kushmanda (October 18): The creator of the universe, she rides a lioness and bestows fame and wealth upon her devotees.
- Skandamata (October 19): Often called Goddess Padmasana, she cradles her son Kartikeya, symbolizing motherly love and protection.
- Katyayani (October 20): Daughter of Sage Katyaayan, she has ten hands, rides a lion, and grants freedom from sin and financial prosperity.
- Kalaratri (October 21): The fierce Kalaratri avatar sacrificed her golden skin to vanquish demons, depicted with four dark arms and menacing weapons.
- Mahagauri (October 22): The “moon-bright” goddess radiates intelligence and happiness, mounted on a white bull, draped in white, and bestowing prosperity.
- Siddhidhatri (October 23): Riding a lion on a lotus flower with four hands, she grants knowledge and riches, making her the perfect conclusion to this divine journey.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The News 18 English
