Navratri 2024: A Guide to the Nine Forms of Durga and Their Sacred Offerings

The Nine Forms of Maa Durga

Each day of Navratri is dedicated to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, symbolizing various virtues and powers. The goddess is worshipped with devotion, with each form representing a specific attribute, which guides the rituals and offerings:

1. Day 1: Devi Shailaputri
   Goddess Shailaputri, the first form of Durga, signifies strength and purity. She is associated with nature and the mountains. Devotees offer her white flowers, especially jasmine, along with sugarcane, cow’s milk, and other traditional sweets as a mark of reverence.
2. Day 2: Devi Brahmacharini
   On the second day, Brahmacharini, the embodiment of penance and devotion, is worshipped. She is offered yellow flowers, especially chrysanthemums, and fruits like bananas. Turmeric is also considered an auspicious offering to her.
3. Day 3: Devi Chandraghanta
   Representing bravery and strength, Goddess Chandraghanta favours red flowers, particularly red hibiscus. Devotees also offer her sweets like kheer and red fruits to seek her blessings.
4. Day 4: Devi Kushmanda
   Kushmanda, the goddess believed to have created the universe, is worshipped with great fervour on the fourth day. She adores pumpkin offerings, red flowers, and traditional sweets like malpua.
5. Day 5: Devi Skandamata
   Skandamata, the nurturing mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya), is honoured with white flowers such as roses, bananas, and sandalwood incense. She also loves Sooji/Atta Halwa as an offering.
6. Day 6: Devi Katyayani
   On the sixth day, devotees worship Katyayani, the warrior goddess. She is offered orange flowers, especially marigolds, and honey to signify her power and grace.
7. Day 7: Devi Kalaratri
   The fearsome and protective form of Durga, Kalaratri, is worshipped with dark-coloured flowers. Devotees also offer sesame seeds, black lentils, and jaggery to appease her and seek her protection.
8. Day 8: Devi Mahagauri
   Mahagauri, symbolizing purity and peace, is worshipped on the eighth day. She adores white flowers, especially lotus, and is offered kheer and white sweets like barfi.
9. Day 9: Devi Siddhidatri
   The final day of Navratri is dedicated to Siddhidatri, the goddess who grants wisdom and success. Yellow flowers, especially yellow roses, and fruits like bananas are offered to her in gratitude for her divine blessings.