As the vibrant festival of Chaitra Navratri unfolds, devotees find themselves immersed in the divine energy of Maa Durga’s various incarnations. On Day 6, falling on April 14, 2024, devotees pay homage to Maa Katyayani, the formidable warrior goddess. Let’s delve into the significance of this auspicious day, the rituals, and the puja practices associated with venerating Maa Katyayani.
Who is Maa Katyayani?
Maa Katyayani, a fierce incarnation of Goddess Durga, is celebrated for her triumph over the demon king Mahishasura. Often depicted riding a majestic lion, she wields a sword and a lotus, symbolizing strength and purity. The tale of her creation is steeped in divine lore; she emerged from the collective energy of celestial beings to vanquish evil, under the guidance of the sage Katyayana. Hence, she is revered as Katyayani, the goddess linked to sage Katyayana.
Day 6 Significance and Timings
Day 6 of Chaitra Navratri, falling on April 14, 2024, holds immense significance as devotees seek Maa Katyayani’s blessings to overcome obstacles and attain peace. According to Drik Panchang, auspicious timings for the day include:
- Brahma Muhurta: 4:40 am to 5:26 am
- Abhijit Muhurat: 11:58 am to 12:47 pm
- Vijaya Muhurta: 2:25 pm to 5:15 pm
- Ravi Yoga: Observed from 6:13 am on April 14 to 1:35 am on April 15
Colour and Special Offerings
On Day 6 of Chaitra Navratri, devotees adorn themselves in the vibrant hue of orange, symbolizing warmth and vitality. Offerings to Maa Katyayani include honey, signifying sweetness and abundance. This special bhog is presented with devotion, seeking the goddess’s blessings for prosperity and fulfillment.
Puja Rituals and Offerings
Devotees commence the day with purification rituals, bathing, and donning fresh attire. The puja area is cleansed meticulously, and the idol of Maa Katyayani is adorned with fragrant flowers. Mantras are chanted fervently, while devotees offer lotus flowers and honey as prasad and bhog, expressing reverence and seeking divine grace.
Puja Mantra, Prathana, Stuti, and Kavacha
Invocation of Maa Katyayani is accompanied by the recitation of sacred mantras, prayers, hymns, and protective verses. These verses extol her virtues, seek her blessings, and fortify devotees against adversities. Here are some revered chants:
- Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah॥
- Chandrahasojjvalakara Shardulavaravahana। Katyayani Shubham Dadyad Devi Danavaghatini॥
- Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Katyayani Rupena Samsthita। Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah॥
- Katyayanaumukha Patu Kam Swahaswarupini। Lalate Vijaya Patu Malini Nitya Sundari॥ Kalyani Hridayam Patu Jaya Bhagamalini॥
Summing Up
As Chaitra Navratri unfolds, devotees embrace the divine presence of Maa Katyayani, seeking her blessings for strength, peace, and prosperity. Through fervent prayers, rituals, and heartfelt devotion, they invoke her grace, ushering in a realm of positivity, abundance, and spiritual upliftment in their lives.
