Date and Time for Navratri 2023
- Shashti Tithi Begins – October 20, 2023 – 12:31 AM
- Shashti Tithi Ends – October 20, 2023 – 11:24 PM
The Significance of Navratri Day 6
Navratri, a time of immense religious significance for Hindus, dedicates its sixth day to worship Goddess Katyayani. This fierce form of Goddess Durga, known for vanquishing demons, emerges as a symbol of power and strength. Katyayani, who rides a lion and boasts a golden complexion, commands respect and awe. It is said that even a glimpse of her is a privilege, as she wields a sword and a lotus flower with her four hands, while the others remain in Abhay Mudra. She is also associated with Jupiter, making her a deity to turn to for those with a debilitated Jupiter in their horoscope.
The Legend of Goddess Katyayani
Katyayani’s tale harkens back to the defeat of the demon king Mahishasura, who she beheaded with a sword. This feat led to her being known as Maa Mahishasurmardini. Her victory marks the commencement of the grand festival of Durga Puja celebrated with enthusiasm in various regions of India, including West Bengal, Kolkata, Tripura, Odisha, and Bihar.
Remedies for Unmarried Girls
Legend has it that the Gopis sought the blessings of Goddess Katyayani to marry Lord Krishna. Unmarried girls desiring an ideal life partner are advised to perform puja on the sixth day of Navratri. Those facing challenges in finding their desired life partner should offer prayers and chant the Katyayani Maha Mantra.
The Story of Sage Katyayan
The sage Katyayan, a devoted worshipper of Maa Parvati, prayed ardently for a daughter as he was childless. Goddess Parvati, moved by his devotion, granted his wish and was born as his daughter, named Katyayani, in his honor.
The Auspicious Color for the Day
Maroon is the color associated with Goddess Katyayani. Devotees should offer shringar items and vermillion to please and seek blessings from the goddess.
Puja Vidhi (Rituals)
To celebrate Navratri Day 6 and worship Goddess Katyayani, follow these rituals:
- Morning Rituals: Wake up early, take a holy bath.
- Offerings: Light a diya, offer garlands, vermillion to the goddess.
- Food Offerings: Present homemade sweets and five different seasonal fruits, along with meetha paan.
- Hawan: Perform hawan and recite Durga Saptashati Path.
- Alternative Reading: If unable to recite the entire Durga Saptashti, read Kavach Path.
- Mantra Chanting: Chant the Katyayani Mata Mantra 108 times to seek a desired husband.
- Evening Puja: In the evening, repeat the puja rituals and chant aarti.
- Prasad Offering: Offer bhog prasad to the goddess and then enjoy a sattvik meal.
Katyayani Mantras
- ॐ देवी कात्यायन्यै नमः॥ (Om Devi Katyayani Namaha॥)
- कात्यायनी महामाये, महायोगिन्यधीश्वरी। नन्दगोपसुतं देवी, पति मे कुरु ते नमः।। (Katyayani Mahamaye Mahayoginyadheeshwari, Nandgopsutam Devipatim Me Kurute Namah..!!)
Also Read: Navratri 2023 Day 5th: Maa Skandamata – Date, Puja Rituals, Color, Mantra, and Significance
