Navdurga, the nine forms of durga
Navdurga | Briefly About Navdurga, the Nine Forms of Durga
Navdurga, also known as the Nine Forms of Durga, refers to the nine manifestations or aspects of the Hindu goddess Durga.
Each form of Navdurga represents a different quality or power of the goddess, symbolizing her strength, courage, and divine energy.
The Navdurga forms are worshipped during the festival of Navratri, a nine-night celebration dedicated to the goddess Durga.
What are the nine forms of Navdurga?
1. Shailaputri: The first form of Navdurga, Shailaputri, represents the energy of the mountains. She is depicted as a goddess riding a bull and carrying a trident.
2. Brahmacharini: This form of Navdurga symbolizes the unmarried form of the goddess. Brahmacharini is portrayed as a goddess holding a rosary in one hand and a water pot in the other.
3. Chandraghanta: Chandraghanta is the third form of Navdurga, symbolizing beauty and bravery. She is depicted with a half-moon-shaped bell on her forehead and riding a tiger.
4. Kushmanda: The fourth form, Kushmanda, represents the creative power of the goddess. She is depicted as a goddess with eight arms, holding weapons and a rosary.
5. Skandamata: Skandamata is the mother of Skanda or Kartikeya, the warrior god. She is depicted holding her son Skanda on her lap.
6. Katyayani: Katyayani is the sixth form of Navdurga and represents fierce determination. She is portrayed as a goddess with four arms, wielding weapons and riding a lion.
7. Kalaratri: This form of Navdurga represents the fierce and destructive aspect of the goddess. Kalaratri is depicted with a dark complexion, dishevelled hair, and a necklace of skulls.
8. Mahagauri: Mahagauri is the eighth form, symbolizing purity and serenity. She is depicted as a goddess with a fair complexion and dressed in white.
9. Siddhidatri: Siddhidatri is the ninth and final form of Navdurga, representing supernatural powers and blessings. She is portrayed with four arms and is worshipped by gods, sages, and divine beings.
Devotees worship each form of Navdurga during the nine nights of Navratri, seeking the blessings and protection of the goddess in different aspects of life. Each form is believed to bestow specific qualities and virtues upon the devotees.