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The ninth day of Navratri falls on Navami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwina, concluding with the final fast on October 23, 2023.
Significance of Maha Navami:
According to Hindu lore, Maha Navami holds immense importance as it is believed that on this day, Goddess Siddhidatri appeared. Pleased by the prayers of all deities, she bestowed upon them the boon of protection against demons whenever they are in distress and call upon Maa Durga.
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The name Siddhidatri signifies the bestower of all siddhis (divine powers). Tantriks and Sadhaks conduct special pujas to please Maa Siddhidatri and attain these divine powers.
Ayudha Puja:
In South India, Ayudha Puja, also known as Astra Puja, is performed on Maha Navami. This ritual involves the worship of tools and weapons. Additionally, devotees offer prayers for the well-being of their vehicles, and Saraswati Puja, honoring the goddess of wisdom and education, is also observed.
Kanya Pujan:
The central ritual of Navratri Pujan, Kanya Pujan, involves worshipping nine young girls who represent the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Their feet are washed, adorned with kumkum, and special food is offered. Devotees express their love and respect by presenting various gifts.
Saraswati Puja:
On Maha Navami, Goddess Durga is also venerated in the form of Saraswati, the deity of wisdom and education. This day marks the culmination of Saraswati Pujan, where devotees immerse the idol of Goddess Saraswati in a nearby river.
Batthukamna Festival:
Coinciding with Navami Tithi, Batthukamna Festival, inspired by a beautiful flower, celebrates womanhood. Hindu women arrange flowers in a distinctive seven-layer conical shape, offering them to Goddess Gauri, a form of Durga. This festival becomes a tribute to the grace and beauty of women, who adorn themselves with new clothes and jewelry.
As Navaratri 2023 concludes with the celebration of Maha Navami, devotees find solace and inspiration in the blessings of Goddess Siddhidatri. The rituals observed on this day serve as a testament to the unwavering devotion and respect for the divine in Hindu culture.