The creation of the universe remains mystic; however, science progresses exponentially. According to Hindu mythology, one theory regarding the creation of the cosmos is Adi-shakti. Before the invention of universes and galaxies, there was utter silence or nothingness; a bright light fell upon the universe, often known as “Adi shakti”. This Adi-shakti is known as a seed of Hindu goddesses Kali and Saraswati and, finally, with a bright seer smile, formed this universe.

Maa Durga is often known as a manifestation of Adi-shakti, the supreme goddess of Hindu mythology. This goddess embodies a symbol of courage, divine power and feminine energy that eliminates evil from her devotees, protecting them from evils and bad luck. Maa Durga is worshipped in various forms by Hindus; in this article, we will study everything about the nine forms of the goddess Durga along with the rituals involved in honouring.

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What are the Nine forms of Maa Durga and Rituals of Worship?

Before celebrating Navratri, we must understand the significance and rituals involved in the worship of these goddesses.

Maa Shailaputri - Maa Shailaputri, as the name suggests, is known as the “daughter of Mountains” or “Parvati”, who married Lord Shiva and has two children popularly known as “Ganesha” and “Kartikeya.” On the first day of Chaitra Navratri, Shailputri is worshipped, Kalashsthapna or Ghatasthapana with diya(oil lamp) and mango leaves is established, and devotees offer fruits, sweets and ghee to her feet to get blessed by her divine power to remove hurdles and add happiness to their life.

Maa Brahamcharini - One of the nine incarnations of the Hindu goddess Durga is Brahmacharini. She is adored on the second day of the nine-day Navratri festival, which is observed in India to commemorate the divine feminine. According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Brahmacharini is represented as a young woman wearing white who is holding a kamandalu (water container) and a japa mala (rosary) in her hands. She is viewed as a representation of the search for truth, wisdom, and understanding. To obtain the graces of the goddess Brahamcharini, who represents simplicity, plain food is frequently offered to her during worship.

Maa Chandraghanta - A manifestation of the Hindu goddess Durga revered for fortitude, bravery, and courage during Navratri, is known as Maa Chandraghanta. She guards worshippers against negative energy and represents harmony, fortune, and tranquilly. She is reputed to bestow success, money, health, and prosperity. On the third day of Navratri, maa Chandraghnata is usually offered with sweet dishes like kheer and milk.

Maa Kushmanda - The fourth incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga is worshipped during Navratri as Maa Kushmanda. She is a powerful deity who embodies the origin of all living things. She is credited with creating the universe with her divine smile and is celebrated for bestowing wealth, health, and prosperity upon her followers. In worshipping Maa Kushmanda, people usually light incense sticks and offer malpua and other dishes.

Maa Skandamata - The Hindu goddess Durga's fifth incarnation is Maa Skandmata. She is known for her fortitude, discernment, and leadership. She is adored during Navratri. She holds her son Skanda in her lap, signifying maternal care and defence. Maa Skandmata is usually worshipped with offerings of bananas and other fruits.

Maa Katyayani- The sixth incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga is worshipped during Navratri as Maa Katyayani. She is renowned for taking on a fearsome shape, and it is thought that she killed Mahishasura, the demon. She is adored for her bravery, triumph, and blissful marriage. She is said to bless her believers with strength, courage, and luck. Devotees of Katayani usually honey is offered as bhog and prasad.

Maa Kalaratri-The seventh incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga is worshipped during Navratri as Maa Kalratri. She is recognised for her solid and destructive form and is said to eliminate all negativity and evil forces. She regulates courage, strength, protection, and clarity of belief in those who follow her. People worship Maa kalaratri by offering sweets and jaggery.

Maa Mahagauri- Maa Mahagauri, revered during Navratri, is the eighth incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga. She is believed to purify her followers of all internal and external impurities and stands for cleanliness and tranquillity. She promotes harmony, serenity, and spiritual development and is thought to bless happiness and prosperity upon her followers. Coconut is used as a bhog for Mahagauri by worshipers.

Maa Siddhidhatri- The ninth and last incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga is Maa Siddhidatri, worshipped during Navratri. She promotes spiritual enlightenment and superhuman abilities to those who follow her. She propagates success, riches, and the accomplishment of desires since she stands for achievement. Her devotees are said to receive her blessings for a joyous and wealthy life. Maa Siddhidhatri is offered and worshipped with til or sesame seeds as bhog.

These are nine divine forms of Maa Durga that are worshipped during Navratri. Devotees those who worship them with a pure soul, the devotion without any materialistic gains and profits are believed to be blessed with happiness, longevity and profit.