ॐ Navratri: The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga – Day 6 Worshipping Maa Katyayani (2024)

ॐ The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga – Day 6 Worshipping Maa Katyayani (2024)

Discover the powerful symbolism and rituals of Navratri Day 6, dedicated to Maa Katyayani, the fierce yet compassionate form of Goddess Durga. Know the divine origin of Maa Katyayani, her triumph over the demon Mahishasura, and the spiritual practices to seek her blessings for protection, success, and marital bliss. Learn the mantras, aarti, and puja vidhi to honour Maa Katyayani during Navratri 2024.

Maa Katyayani is often depicted riding a lion, wielding a sword, and displaying the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness). The sword in her hand symbolizes knowledge and strength, while the lion represents her mastery over fear and her role as the destroyer of evil forces.

The sixth day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Katyayani, one of the most powerful and revered forms of Goddess Durga. Known for her fierce yet compassionate nature, Maa Katyayani embodies the warrior aspect of the goddess, symbolizing strength, courage, and the power to eradicate all forms of evil. Her worship on this day is steeped in tradition, devotion, and sacred rituals. Devotees seek her blessings for protection, success, and the destruction of negative energies that hinder spiritual growth and worldly prosperity.

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Muhurat for sixth pooja of Navratri: Date & Time for Maa Katyayani Puja

• Navratri Khasti Tithi Begins: after 7:25 am 8 Oct 2024
• Shubh Muhurat for Maa Katyayani Puja: 2:50 pm to 4:20 pm

Who is Maa Katyayani?

Maa Katyayani is the sixth manifestation of Goddess Durga and is widely known as the slayer of the demon Mahishasura. Her tale of valour, as documented in ancient scriptures like the Puranas, Vedas, and Tantras, showcases her role in preserving the balance between good and evil. The Vedic and Puranic texts are rich with stories, symbolism, and rituals associated with Maa Katyayani. According to Hindu mythology, she was born from the combined energy of the gods (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva) to destroy Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The name "Katyayani" comes from Sage Katya, who performed intense penance to have the goddess born as his daughter. Pleased by his devotion, the divine goddess granted his wish and took birth as Katyayani, who later went on to defeat the formidable demon Mahishasura.

Spiritual Symbolism in the Depiction of Maa Katyayani

Maa Katyayani is often depicted riding a lion, wielding a sword, and displaying the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness), a clear representation of her protective and warrior qualities. The sword in her hand symbolizes knowledge and strength, while the lion represents her mastery over fear and her role as the destroyer of evil forces. Her four hands carry weapons given by the gods, representing different divine attributes:

1. Sword: Given by Lord Shiva, representing wisdom and the destruction of ignorance.
2. Lotus: Signifying beauty, purity, and spiritual awakening.
3. Chakra (Discus): Gifted by Lord Vishnu, representing the cycle of time and protection.
4. Thunderbolt (Vajra): A weapon of Lord Indra, symbolizing determination and focus.

These attributes make her an embodiment of both spiritual knowledge and divine power, qualities that are sought after by those who worship her.

Depicting a vibrant Navratri celebration where devotees are worshipping Maa Katyayani. The scene captures the essence of devotion and festivity as people perform rituals and prayers.

Navratri Day 6: Origin of Maa Katyayani in Hindu Scriptures

The story of Maa Katyayani originates from the Markandeya Purana and the Devi Bhagavata Purana, which narrates how she was created from the combined energies of the gods to destroy the demon Mahishasura. According to the Skanda Purana, Sage Katyayana, a devout follower of Goddess Durga, performed intense penance to have the goddess born as his daughter. Pleased with his devotion, the goddess took birth as Katyayani, fulfilling the sage’s desire.

In the Rigveda, Maa Katyayani is also referred to as the one who protects righteous beings and fights against the forces of darkness. These ancient texts portray her as a warrior goddess born for the sole purpose of annihilating evil, which is why she is invoked during times of distress, especially when devotees seek protection from negative forces.

Rituals and Traditions for Worshipping on Day 6 of Navratri: Worship Maa Katyayani

Worshipping Maa Katyayani is a deeply spiritual experience filled with rituals that connect devotees to her energy. Here's how you can perform the Katyayani Pujan:

1. Sankalp (Vow): Begin by taking a vow with a pure heart, stating your intent to perform the puja, and seeking Maa Katyayani’s blessings.
2. Ghatasthapana: The sacred Kalash that was established on the first day of Navratri is worshipped on the fifth day. Offer flowers, fruits, and water to the Kalash.
3. Dhyana (Meditation): Close your eyes, focus your mind on Maa Katyayani’s form, and visualize her fierce yet benevolent presence. Meditate on her strength and compassion.
4. Durga Saptashati Recitation: Reciting verses from the Durga Saptashati (a collection of 700 verses in praise of Goddess Durga) is considered extremely auspicious.
5. Fasting: Many devotees observe fast on the fifth day of Navratri, consuming only fruits or special Navratri dishes.
6. Aarti and Mantra Japa: Perform Aarti while reciting the mantras and prayers. Light camphor and incense sticks during the Aarti.
7. Shodashopachara Puja: Perform the 16-step worship process, including offerings of water, food, clothes, and flowers.
8. Offerings: Red flowers are the most significant offering to Maa Katyayani, symbolizing her fiery energy. Devotees also offer honey, pomegranate, sesame seeds, fruits, and specially prepared bhog.
9. Conclude with Aarti: Recite the Aarti and distribute the Bhog as Prasad to family and friends.
10. Kumari Puja: Young girls are worshipped as the embodiment of the goddess. Devotees offer them sweets, food, and gifts.

Pooja Vidhi for Navratri Day Six: Worshiping Maa Katyayani

1. Start by lighting a diya (lamp) and incense to purify the atmosphere and invoke her divine presence.
2. Chant mantras are dedicated to Maa Katyayani with full devotion to invoke her blessings.
3. Offer red flowers, honey, and other prasad, while performing an aarti to seek her protection and grace.
4. Conclude the puja with prayers, asking for her strength and guidance in overcoming life's challenges.

Navratri Day 6: Mantras for Maa Katyayani Pujan

Reciting mantras during the puja is an essential aspect of invoking the goddess’s divine energy. Here are some key mantras for worship:

"ॐ देवी कात्यायन्यै नमः॥" (Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah)
"कात्यायनी महामाये महायोगिन्यधीश्वरि।
नन्द गोपसुतं देवी पतिं मे कुरु ते नमः॥"
"कात्यायनी महामाये महायोगिन्यधीश्वरि।
नन्द गोपसुतं देवी पतिं मे कुरु ते नमः॥"
(O Katyayani, the great Yogini and Mahamaya, I offer my respects to you.
Please make Lord Krishna my husband, O Devi, I bow before you.)

These mantras are believed to attract her blessings for success, health, prosperity, and marital bliss.

Navratri Day 6: Aarti of Maa Katyayani

Aarti is the concluding ritual of any puja. It brings positive vibrations and helps devotees connect with the divine. Here is the full aarti for Maa Katyayani:

जय जय अंबे जय कात्यायनी।
जय जग माता जय जगदंबे।
जो कोई तुम्हें ध्यान लगाता।
रिद्धि-सिद्धि धन-वैभव पाता॥1॥
तू है जग की पालनहारी।
करती सदा सहाय प्यारी।
तेरा मदिर सुहावन लागे।
हर शुभ मंगल मन भावे॥2॥
तेरे मंदिर में दीप जलाते।
भक्त सदा फूल चढ़ाते।
कृपा दृष्टि सब पर करती।
मनवांछित फल सबको मिलता॥3॥
कहते पुराण जगत में सारा।
माँ कात्यायनी तेरा उजियारा।
तेरे दर पर जो भी आता।
माँ कात्यायनी सब कुछ पाता॥4॥
जो तू चाहे सो ही करवा दे।
रोग-दुखों से तू छुटकारा दे।
झोली भर दे कृपा अपार।
माँ कात्यायनी हमारी रखवाली कर॥5॥
करती है जग की तू रखवाली।
माँ कात्यायनी संकट टाली।
हर करुणा का सिंधु निराला।
माँ कात्यायनी तू महाकाली॥6॥

This aarti is sung during Navratri to invoke the blessings of Maa Katyayani, the sixth form of Goddess Durga. Performing this aarti with full devotion is believed to remove obstacles and bring strength and protection to the worshipper. Sourced from Durga Saptashati, Markandeya Purana

Puja Samagri for Worshiping Maa Katyayani

1. Red flowers (preferably hibiscus)
2. Red cloth or dupatta
3. Kumkum and roli
4. Camphor (Kapoor)
5. Incense sticks (agarbatti) and dhoop
6. Ghee for lighting the diya
7. Honey, pomegranate, sesame seeds
8. Prasad (Kheer, Halwa)
9. Fruits and sweets for the bhog

What Bhog Should be offered on Navratri Day 6 for Maa Katyayani?

Honey is the most beloved offering to Maa Katyayani. Additionally, offering dishes prepared with sesame seeds and pomegranate is said to please the goddess. You can prepare sweets or simple food items, but the emphasis should be on purity and devotion.

Navratri 2024 Day 6: Significance of Day 6 Colour: Red

The colour red is associated with passion, energy, and the fierce nature of Maa Katyayani. On the sixth day of Navratri, devotees are encouraged to wear red attire to align themselves with the powerful vibrations of the goddess. The colour red also symbolizes the victory of good over evil, making it the perfect colour to represent Maa Katyayani’s fearless energy.

The Importance of Kumari Puja on Navratri Day 6 in Maa Katyayani Worship

The Kumari Puja, or the worship of young pre-pubescent girls, continues on Day 6 as a significant tradition. Young girls, seen as embodiments of Maa Katyayani herself, are worshipped by offering food, sweets, and gifts. This ritual is believed to bring divine blessings to the household and is a symbol of the goddess’s nurturing power. In many regions of India, especially in states like West Bengal and Odisha, Kumari Puja is an integral part of the Navratri celebrations dedicated to Maa Katyayani.

Spiritual Significance of Worshiping Maa Katyayani

Maa Katyayani is the sixth avatar of Maa Durga and is often depicted riding a lion, wielding a sword, and radiating divine strength. According to Hindu mythology, she was born from the combined energy of the gods to defeat the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Devotees pray to her for protection, courage, and victory in their battles, both internal and external. Unmarried girls especially worship her to find a worthy life partner, while others pray for family well-being and success in life.

Worshipping Maa Katyayani is believed to bring protection, strength, and victory in both internal and external struggles. She is particularly revered by young unmarried women seeking a suitable life partner. Devotees pray to her for peace, success, and the destruction of obstacles in life.

Another story connects Maa Katyayani to young girls seeking a husband. According to Hindu scriptures, unmarried girls worshipped Maa Katyayani to have Lord Krishna as their husband. This tradition has continued, and unmarried women today offer prayers to her to find a suitable life partner.

Navratri Day 6 Stories: Maa Katyayani and the Mahishasura Mardini Story

The Durga Saptashati, a part of the Markandeya Purana, recounts the famous story of Mahishasura Mardini, where Maa Katyayani plays a pivotal role. Mahishasura, a shape-shifting demon with the power to transform into any form, wreaked havoc on Earth and the heavens. After receiving a boon from Lord Brahma that made him invincible to men, Mahishasura’s tyranny became unbearable for the gods.

In their desperation, the gods combined their energies to create a fierce form of Durga—Maa Katyayani. Her radiance was so powerful that the entire universe trembled. Armed with celestial weapons, she rode into battle on her lion and fought Mahishasura’s army. After a fierce battle lasting ten days, Maa Katyayani finally beheaded Mahishasura, restoring balance to the universe. This event is commemorated during Navratri and celebrated with great fervour, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Navratri Day 6 Stories: The Connection Between Maa Katyayani and Lord Krishna

An interesting story from the Bhagavata Purana links Maa Katyayani to the gopis (cowherd girls) of Vrindavan. Legend has it that the gopis, desiring Lord Krishna as their husband, performed a fast and worshipped Maa Katyayani. They made an idol of her from the clay of the Yamuna River and offered prayers and sacrifices to the goddess. Pleased by their devotion, Maa Katyayani blessed the gopis and fulfilled their wish, allowing them to unite with Krishna on a spiritual level.

This tradition has continued over the centuries, with unmarried women worshipping Maa Katyayani to seek a worthy life partner. This story is particularly significant in regions like Vrindavan and Mathura, where devotees follow the Katyayani Vrat (fast) to seek the goddess's blessings for marriage.

Navratri Day 6 Stories: The Legend of King Suratha and Maa Katyayani

One of the lesser-known stories from the Markandeya Purana speaks of King Suratha, who lost his kingdom to enemies and sought refuge in the forest. There, he met a sage who instructed him to worship Maa Katyayani to regain his lost power. Following the sage’s advice, King Suratha performed an intense penance dedicated to Maa Katyayani. Pleased with his devotion, the goddess appeared before him and restored his kingdom, bestowing him with wisdom and strength. This story exemplifies the blessings of Maa Katyayani in overcoming obstacles, reclaiming lost power, and gaining spiritual insight.

Conclusion

Maa Katyayani’s presence during the sixth day of Navratri serves as a reminder of the powerful, protective, and nurturing aspects of the Divine Mother. Through her stories, symbolism, and worship rituals, devotees can connect deeply with her energy. Whether it is seeking victory over challenges, protection from evil, or success in marriage, Maa Katyayani’s blessings are both fierce and compassionate. As we celebrate her on this auspicious day, may her divine grace bring strength, courage, and prosperity to all.

As you celebrate Navratri Day 6 in 2024, may Maa Katyayani’s blessings bring strength, courage, and victory over all obstacles in life. Through devotion, meditation, and sincere prayers, invoke her protection and guidance in every aspect of your life. Whether you seek success, marital bliss, or spiritual growth, the worship of Maa Katyayani offers divine protection and the power to overcome challenges. Celebrate her presence, chant her aarti, and adorn yourself in red as you welcome her fierce yet loving energy into your life.

" May Maa Katyayani bless your Navratri celebrations in 2024 with harmony, strength, and wisdom! "
~ Team Baidhyanath.Org