Maha Navratri, also known as Shardiya Navratri, is a lively Hindu festival spanning nine nights and ten days. Celebrated with great fervor and splendor across India from October 15 to October 24 this year, devotees worldwide honor the nine manifestations of Maa Durga, collectively known as Navdurga.
Marked by elaborate ornamentation, traditional dances, devotional melodies, and fasting, the festival fosters an ambiance of devotion, introspection, and delight.
On the sixth day of Shardiya Navratri falling on Friday, October 20, devotees pay homage to Goddess Katyayani.
SHARDIYA NAVRATRI DAY 6: MAA KATYAYANI PUJA Goddess Katyayani stands as one of the fierce incarnations of Goddess Durga, earning her the title of Mahishasurmardini for conquering the demon king Mahishasura.
She is commonly portrayed riding a lion, wielding a sword and a lotus flower in her left hand, with her right hand displaying Abhaya and Varada mudras, symbolizing protection and blessings.
Maa Katyayani is revered as the conqueror of malevolent forces.
NAVRATRI DAY 6: SIGNIFICANCE Governing Brihaspati and embodying qualities of wisdom and harmony, Maa Katyayani’s divine blessings are believed to purify devotees of their transgressions, dispel malevolent spirits, and eliminate obstacles.
