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Navratri 2023: Hindu devotees all over the world celebrate Navratri. For Hindus, Shardiya Navratri, also known as Maha Navratri, is one of the most important and eagerly anticipated religious celebrations. In 2023, the Navratri festival will be celebrated from October 15 to October 24. Goddess Durga is worshipped on Shardiya Navratri, which falls during the lunar month of Ashwin. The holiday of Navratri, which means "nine nights" in Sanskrit, symbolises the triumph of good over evil. According to the sacred Hindu texts, Goddess Durga fought the demon Mahishasura for nine days and nine nights before ultimately killing him. The divine feminine energy that defeats the powers of evil is symbolised by these nine nights. In order to receive the blessings of Goddess Durga, devotees worship her nine different incarnations during the nine days of Navratri. 

Let us check out the names and significance of the nine divine forms of Goddess Durga which are revered during Shardiya Navratri. 

Navratri 2023: Nine Forms Of Goddess Durga And Their Significance 

Navratri Day-1 Mata Shailputri 

Mother Shailputri is worshipped on the first day. Mata Shailputri, a symbol of tenacity and bravery, was born to King Himalaya. She addresses the good power within her worshippers, helping them to remove faults caused by the moon. 

Navratri Day-2 Mata Brahmacharini 

On the second day, Mata Brahmacharini is revered as a symbol of Lord Brahma's discipline and resolve. Her worship enhances the values of penance, renunciation, morality, and self-control. 

Navratri Day-3 Mata Chandraghanta 

The name Mata Chandraghanta derives from the fact that she is renowned for sporting a crescent moon on her forehead. The Goddess is associated with concentration and bestows health and vigour upon her worshippers. People who adore her become more engaged, less enraged, and more capable of clear-headed thought. 

Navratri Day-4 Mata Kushmanda 

The fourth form of the goddess Durga, Mata Kushmanda is revered as the universe's mother. She was given the name "Kushmanda" because of her exquisite giggle, which created the cosmos. She stands for invention and creation. Praying Kushmanda speeds up both incremental and significant progress.  

Devotees worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga during the auspicious festival of Navratri. (Image Source: Jagran English)

Navratri Day-5 Skandmata 

Skandamata, the mother of Lord Skanda, is renowned for fulfilling the wishes of her followers. She creates the paths leading to salvation and blends graciousness and coolness into hearts. One can get bliss and satisfaction by praying to Skandmata. 

Navratri Day-6 Mata Katyayni 

The goddess Katyayani is worshipped on the sixth day. Her name came from Sage Katyayan. In addition to serving as an inspiration for women, she exemplifies hard work, punishment, limitation, and penance. The love of mother Katyayani inspires women to find their inner power and develop courage.   

Navratri Day-7 Mata Kalratri 

Goddess Kalratri, who is associated with tantras, yantras, and mantras, is honoured on the seventh day. Despite having a frightening appearance, she removes planetary impediments and produces favourable results. She is also referred to as Shubhankari, the one who bestows blessings.  

Navratri Day-8 Mata Mahagauri 

The eighth manifestation of Maa Durga, Mata Mahagauri is worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri. She is positioned alongside Lord Shiva in Kailash as his beloved consort. Devotees are absolved of all sins by praying to her, which brings them peace and tranquillity. 

Also Read: Navratri 2023: Shardiya Navratri Start And End Date, Calendar, Significance | Know Here

Navratri Day-9 Mata Siddhidatri 

Mata Siddhidatri is the goddess of accomplishments. She not only satisfies the wants of her followers but also bestows many gifts. According to legend, Veer Hanuman benefited from her grace by receiving the protection of eight siddhis as well as abundant prosperity.