Navratri is one of India’s most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals, celebrated over nine nights in honour of Goddess Durga. Each day is dedicated to one of her nine forms, known as the Navdurga, and every form has its own unique symbolism, story, and blessing to offer. From the calm strength of Maa Shailputri to the fierce protection of Maa Kaalratri, these nine avatars guide devotees through lessons of courage, devotion, wisdom, and compassion. Knowing the meaning behind each form adds depth to the celebrations and helps connect more deeply with the festival’s spiritual essence.
Navratri 2025: The 9-Day Puja Schedule
Day 1 (Sept 22, Monday): Ghatasthapana / Shailaputri Puja
Day 2 (Sept 23, Tuesday): Brahmacharini Puja
Day 3 (Sept 24, Wednesday): Chandraghanta Puja
Day 4 (Sept 25, Thursday): Kushmanda Puja
Day 5 (Sept 26, Friday): Skandamata Puja
Day 6 (Sept 27, Saturday): Katyayani Puja
Day 7 (Sept 28, Sunday): Kalaratri Puja
Day 8 (Sept 29, Monday): Mahagauri Puja
Day 9 (Sept 30, Tuesday): Siddhidatri Puja / Navami
1. Maa Shailputri – The Goddess of Stability
The first avatar of Goddess Durga is Maa Shailputri, and this avatar of Maa Durga is worshiped on the first day of the Navaratri celebration. She is the daughter of mountains, which brings out aspects of strength, peace, and purity in the woman. Her name is also ‘Shailputri’ and means that she is the daughter of the mountains; she rides a bull; she holds a trident; and she holds a Lotus. Maa Shailputri symbolizes patience, and her followers pray for maintaining calmness and stability in their spiritual as well as material life.
2. Maa Brahmacharini - The Goddess of Penance and Knowledge
On the second day of Navratri, devotees pray to Maa Brahmacharini, who actually means the path of devotion and celibacy. Moreover, she is the epitome of an ascetic and an individual who meditates deeply. Her form is illustrated with a rosary in her right hand, while the other hand holds a water utensil. Maa Brahmacharini also depicts the determination, focus, and wisdom of the followers. Her blessings assist the devotees to keep their eyes on the spiritual and individual objectives.
3. Maa Chandraghanta - The Goddess of Courage
The third day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, who is the goddess of power and the destroyer of evil spirits. She has a crescent moon on her forehead, and that’s why she is named Chandraghanta. Sitting on a tiger, she symbolizes the ability to take action against the oppressors and all the vile creatures of the world. Chandraghanta is considered to be the deity who favors bravery and knowledge, and she removes all the hurdles of the worshippers.
4. Maa Kushmanda - The Cosmic Creator
On the fourth day, devotees worship Maa Kushmanda, also known as the cosmic creator. She is believed to be the source of cosmic energy and creation. Maa Kushmanda radiates warmth and energy, nurturing life and maintaining the balance of power in the universe. She is said to be the Adi-Shakti, and her teachings help her followers channel their energies positively and maintain equilibrium in life. Worshipping her brings vitality and health to her devotees.
5. Maa Skandamata - The Mother of Lord Kartikeya
Maa Skandamata is worshiped on the fifth day of Navratri. She is the mother of Lord Kartikeya (Skanda), the god of war. As a symbol of maternal love and care, Skandamata represents the nurturing and protective side of motherhood. She teaches her devotees about unconditional love and the sacrifices that come with it. Her blessings provide her followers with the strength to face challenges with a calm and caring heart.
6. Maa Katyayani - The Warrior Goddess
Maa Katyayani, the warrior goddess, is revered on the sixth day of Navratri. She represents strength, courage, and the ability to confront evil. Born as the daughter of sage Katyayan, she is often depicted with a sword in hand, ready to fight against wrongdoings. Worshippers of Maa Katyayani seek her blessings for inner strength and protection. She inspires them to stand up for righteousness and face life's challenges without fear.
7. Maa Kaalratri - The Goddess Who Destroys Darkness
On the seventh day, devotees worship Maa Kaalratri, the fiercest form of Goddess Durga. She is often depicted with a dark complexion and disheveled hair, symbolizing her fearsome nature. Maa Kaalratri represents the destruction of ignorance, evil, and darkness. She teaches her followers to be fearless and determined in their fight against negativity. Devotees pray to her for protection from harm, both physical and spiritual.
8. Maa Mahagauri - The Goddess of Purity and Serenity
The eighth day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Mahagauri, who symbolizes purity, peace, and wisdom. She is often depicted in a white robe, riding a bull, and is believed to bestow purity upon her devotees. Maa Mahagauri represents transformation, as her fair complexion emerged after she performed severe penance to purify herself. Devotees seek her blessings to purify their minds and souls, bringing serenity and calmness into their lives.
9. Maa Siddhidatri - The Goddess of Supernatural Powers
The final form of Goddess Durga is Maa Siddhidatri, worshiped on the ninth day of Navratri. She is known as the goddess who grants supernatural powers or "siddhis" to her devotees. With her divine energy, she brings harmony and balance to the universe. Devotees who worship Maa Siddhidatri seek wisdom, spiritual enlightenment, and the power to achieve their highest potential. Her blessings help them transcend the material world and attain spiritual fulfillment.
A Journey Through Divine Energy: The Essence of Navratri
The nine nights of Navratri are not merely a sequence of rituals but a profound spiritual journey through the multifaceted nature of the divine feminine. The path begins with the grounded purity of Maa Shailputri, moves through lessons in courage, creation, and compassion, and culminates in the ultimate spiritual wisdom granted by Maa Siddhidatri.
As you celebrate Navratri 2025, may the story of each goddess inspire your path, bringing you closer to your own inner strength and light. The festival is a beautiful reminder that the journey to enlightenment is a dance of devotion, power, and grace.
