Navadurga

Navadurga is a collective term for the nine manifestations of the Hindu goddess Durga, worshipped particularly during the festival Navaratri. Each form embodies a facet of Shakti, the divine feminine power, and together they symbolize the destruction of evils and the awakening of spiritual energy. The nine forms are Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidhatri.

In Hindu tradition these forms are described in texts such as the Devi Mahatmya, part of the Markandeya Purana, and are referenced in broader Durga-related scriptures. The festival Navaratri spans nine nights; across many regions devotees worship one form on each day, beginning with Shailaputri and concluding with Siddhidhatri, while some communities observe a longer nine-night cycle culminating in Vijayadashami or Dussehra, celebrating Durga's triumph over the demon Mahishasura.

Rituals during Navadurga practices include fasting, puja, the recitation of mantras, and offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets. Devotional songs and dances, especially in communities observing Durga Puja in Bengal and other parts of India, are common. Navadurga is invoked as a compassionate mother who protects her devotees, dispels ignorance, and helps spiritual progress.