As the vibrant festival of Navratri unfolds, the sixth day shines a spotlight on Maa Katyayani, the sixth manifestation of Maa Durga. Revered for her strength and valor, Katyayani embodies the fierce energy of the divine feminine, celebrated for defeating the demon king Mahishasura. This day, dedicated to her worship, holds immense significance for devotees across the globe.
Maa Katyayani, also known as Mahishasurmardini, symbolises the victory of good over evil. Her form is often depicted riding a majestic lion, symbolising courage and power. In her four hands, she carries a lotus and a sword, representing purity and strength, while the Abhaya and Varada mudras convey protection and blessings. This powerful imagery reflects her association with wisdom, harmony, virtue, strength, fertility, and trust.
Worshiping Maa Katyayani is believed to purify sins, drive away malevolent spirits, and remove obstacles from devotees’ lives. The Maa is particularly cherished by unmarried women who observe fasting on this day, praying for a suitable life partner. The traditional offering for this day includes Makhana laddoo, a sweet delicacy prepared to honour the Maa.
The sixth day of Navratri is marked by elaborate rituals and spiritual practices. Devotees are encouraged to rise early, bathe, and don new garments. The puja area is cleaned and adorned with fresh flowers as offerings are made to the idol of Maa Katyayani. While reciting mantras, devotees hold a lotus in their hands and offer honey as prasad, seeking the Maa’s blessings.
Significance of the Day and Puja Muhurat
On this day, the Brahma Muhurta begins at 4:44 AM and ends at 5:34 AM. The Abhijit Muhurat runs from 11:43 AM to 12:28 PM, while the Vijaya Muhurta is observed from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM. These auspicious timings provide devotees with the perfect opportunity to perform rituals and seek the Maa’s blessings.
Each day of Navratri is associated with a specific color, and the sixth day is represented by green. This color symbolises fertility, growth, and balance, reflecting the qualities that Maa Katyayani embodies. In addition to green, white symbolises purity, representing the goal of overcoming ignorance and achieving nobility.
To honor Maa Katyayani, devotees chant the following mantra:
“Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah॥
Chandrahas Ojjvalakara Shardula Naravahana।
Katyayani Shubham Dadyad Devi Danavaghatini॥
Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Katyayani Rupena Samsthita।
Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah॥”
The mantra expresses reverence for the Maa and acknowledges her protective and nurturing aspects.
Worshiping Maa Katyayani is considered fruitful, as she is believed to grant wealth, prosperity, and liberation. According to the Devi Bhagwat Puran, those who please the Maa experience radiance in their lives, while their families remain happy and free from ailments and fears. Additionally, devotees seek her blessings to overcome adversities and triumph over enemies.
Maa Katyayani has a preference for honey, making it a vital offering during her worship. The colors red and yellow are also favored, and devotees are encouraged to present these vibrant roses to please her. In the rituals, offerings of kumkum, akshat (rice), and flowers are made, along with traditional food items, while a ghee lamp is lit, and Aarti is performed to honor her.
