The 9 lessons that 9 avatars of Maa Durga teach us | The Times of India (2024)

Every year, sometime between March and April, Hindus all over the world celebrate Chaitra Navratri. Falling in the month of Chaitra, Navratri or 9 nights are the nights dedicated to the 9 different avatars of Maa Durga. It is said that when Maa Durga was created by Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, she fought with the demon Mahishasura for 9 nights, won against him and was then hailed as ‘Mahishasurmardini’ and the 9 nights of Navratri are thus dedicated to her.
Here we mention what each avatar of Maa Durga, worshipped during Navratri, teaches us.

Maa Shailputri is the first avatar of Maa Durga and is said to be the epitome of purity and shows humans the power of creation. Maa Shailputri teaches us the importance of being grounded and connected to our roots. Many say that just like a mountain stands tall and firm, she too teaches people to stay steadfast in their beliefs and values. Maa Shailputri inspires humans to realise and use their inner strength, stay strong in the face of challenges and emerge victorious.

The second day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Brahmacharini. She is the symbol of penance and austerity and teaches people the value of self-discipline and dedication. It is said that those who please Maa Brahmacharini with their pure nature, achieve every goal of their life.
Maa Brahmacharini teaches her devotees how by practising some restraint and focusing the same energy on the right path, can help you walk on the road to success and achievement. Maa Brahmacharini is a symbol of the true strength that comes from within.

Worshipped on the third day of Navratri, Maa Chandraghanta has a crescent moon on her forehead and is the symbol of peace, calm, and serenity. It is believed that Maa Chandraghanta teaches people how important it is to maintain order, calm, and inner balance when you are hit with problems and obstacles. She is the teacher of maintaining inner balance during chaos and just like how the moon stays calm throughout the night, she teaches how to stay focused and worry-free in times of adversity.

On the 4th day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Kushmanda, who is also known as the cosmic creator. Maa Kushmanda is the symbol of the power of cosmic energy and teaches her devotees the importance of nurturing life and maintaining balance of power. It is said that Maa Kushmanda is the adi-shakti and helps her devotees channel their energies correctly.

Skandamata is the mother of Lord Kartikeya, or ‘Skanda’ as he is referred to in some cultures. Evident by her name, Skandmata is a symbol of maternal love and protection. She teaches her devotees the ways to shower unconditional love and also at times the sacrifices you need to do for love.
Just like a mother supports and teaches her child, Skandmata holds her devotees hands and walks with them with care and compassion.

On day 6 of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Katyayani who is also known as the ‘Warrior Goddess’. Maa Katyayani is the symbol of courage and strength and teaches us how to confront our fears without scare or worry. Maa Katyayani also teaches people that one should always stand up for what is right and like a warrior should face challenges and emerge victorious. People who worship Maa Katyayani develop a sense of inner courage that helps them achieve success against the negative energies of life.

On day 7, we worship Maa Kaalratri, the fierce form of Maa Durga. Maa Kaalratri is the face of destruction of evil energies and liberation from their clutches. It is said that Maa Kaalratri teaches people two things - First is the bravery and fierceness with which people should face challenges and second is the importance of letting go of attachments. Just like after every dark night there is a bright sun, waiting for you to wake up, after every rough phase of life, there is a reward that awaits.

Mata Mahagauri is said to be the representation of purity and innocence. She teaches her devotees the importance of inner-purification and self-reflection. Seated on a beautiful white bull, dressed in white clothes, Maa Mahagauri is the epitome of purity.
Just by looking at an image of Maa Mahagauri, devotees start feeling a sense of ease in their hearts and get the courage to let go of their ego, anger and fears. In her best form, Maa Mahagauri blesses her devotees with clarity of mind and purity of heart.

Many believe that Maa Siddhidatri is the one who gives devotees supernatural powers in the form of ‘Siddhi’ and thus she is the ‘Siddhidatri’. But unfortunately, many now equate Siddhi with negative supernatural powers, which is quite untrue. Instead, Maa Siddhidatri is the giver of divine knowledge and wisdom and teaches her devotees to walk on the right path and always seek the truthful. Maa Siddhidatri reminds us that true fulfilment and knowledge comes from within.