Navratri, one of the most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals in India, is celebrated over nine nights and ten days in honor of the divine feminine energy. Each day is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, symbolizing various virtues such as strength, wisdom, courage, and compassion. In 2025, Navratri begins on September 22 and concludes on September 30, culminating in Vijayadashami.
Here’s a day-wise guide to the nine goddesses worshipped during Navratri:
Day 1 – Shailaputri (September 22)
Goddess Shailaputri, the daughter of the Himalayas, represents purity and strength. She rides a bull and holds a trident and lotus. Worship on this day invokes stability and grounding.
Day 2 – Brahmacharini (September 23)
Symbolizing penance and devotion, Brahmacharini is depicted walking barefoot with a rosary and water pot. She blesses devotees with wisdom and inner strength.
Day 3 – Chandraghanta (September 24)
Known for her fierce form and protective nature, Chandraghanta rides a tiger and wears a crescent moon on her forehead. She removes fear and brings peace.
Day 4 – Kushmanda (September 25)
Goddess Kushmanda is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile. She brings health, wealth, and energy. Her mount is a lion.
Day 5 – Skandamata (September 26)
The mother of Lord Kartikeya (Skanda), she nurtures and protects. She is shown holding her son and riding a lion, symbolizing maternal strength.
Day 6 – Katyayani (September 27)
Born to sage Katyayan, this warrior goddess is revered for courage and righteousness. She is often worshipped by young women seeking a good marriage.
Day 7 – Kalaratri (September 28)
The fiercest form of Durga, Kalaratri destroys evil and removes darkness. Despite her terrifying appearance, she blesses devotees with protection and fearlessness.
Day 8 – Mahagauri (September 29)
Mahagauri represents purity, serenity, and calm. She is dressed in white and rides a bull. Her blessings bring peace and fulfillment.
Day 9 – Siddhidatri (September 30)
The final form, Siddhidatri, grants supernatural powers (siddhis) and spiritual enlightenment. She is worshipped by gods, sages, and devotees alike.
Each day of Navratri is not only a celebration of divine energy but also a journey inward—toward self-realization, discipline, and devotion. Homes are adorned with vibrant colors, temples echo with chants, and communities come together in dance, prayer, and joy.