Navratri, the nine divine nights of Goddess Durga, is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals. Each day is dedicated to a unique form of Maa Durga, representing her various powers and blessings. On the sixth day of Navratri, devotees worship Goddess Katyayani, also known as the warrior form of Durga. She is believed to remove obstacles, fulfill desires, and bless her devotees with inner strength and success.
In Navratri 2025, the sixth day holds great spiritual importance for all who seek courage, purity, and divine grace. Let’s explore the story, significance, puja vidhi, and mantra associated with Maa Katyayani.
Who is Goddess Katyayani?
Goddess Katyayani is the sixth form of Navadurga, born to Sage Katyayan through divine energy. According to Hindu scriptures, she was created to destroy the demon Mahishasura, who had become invincible through boons. When the gods combined their energies, a powerful radiant form emerged — that of Maa Katyayani.
She is often depicted riding a lion, holding a sword and lotus in her hands, symbolizing bravery, purity, and righteousness. Her appearance radiates divine strength and a sense of justice.
The Birth Story of Maa Katyayani
Long ago, Sage Katyayan performed intense penance to please Goddess Durga. He prayed for her to be born as his daughter. Impressed by his devotion, the Goddess granted his wish and took birth in his ashram as Katyayani.
When Mahishasura, the buffalo demon, unleashed terror in heaven and on earth, the gods requested Goddess Durga to end his tyranny. Maa Katyayani appeared on her lion mount, waged a fierce battle, and eventually slayed Mahishasura, restoring peace and dharma.
Thus, she is also known as Mahishasura Mardini, the destroyer of evil and protector of the righteous.
Spiritual Significance of Day 6 of Navratri
Worshiping Maa Katyayani on the sixth day of Navratri is said to:
- Eliminate all negative energies from life.
- Bring harmony, courage, and success.
- Fulfill desires related to marriage and relationships.
- Help devotees attain peace of mind and spiritual strength.
According to the Bhagavata Purana, unmarried girls in ancient times used to worship Maa Katyayani to get a good husband. Even today, devotees observe Katyayani Vrat for marital bliss and wish fulfillment.
Maa Katyayani Puja Vidhi (Worship Method)
The sixth day of Navratri is considered highly sacred. Devotees observe fasts, perform rituals, and meditate to seek Maa’s blessings.
Step-by-Step Worship Method:
- Morning Bath and Purification:
Wake up early, bathe, and wear clean yellow or light pink clothes (colors associated with Maa Katyayani). - Prepare the Puja Area:
Place a clean cloth on the altar, set an idol or picture of Maa Katyayani, and decorate it with flowers, kumkum, and incense sticks. - Invocation (Avahan):
Light a diya (lamp) with ghee or oil and chant:
“Om Katyayanyai Namah” to invoke the Goddess. - Offerings (Bhog):
Offer honey, jaggery, fruits, and sweets to the Goddess as bhog. Honey is especially significant on this day. - Recite Mantras and Chalisa:
Chant the Katyayani Mantra, Durga Saptashati, or Katyayani Chalisa with devotion. - Aarti and Prayers:
End the worship with aarti and seek forgiveness for any mistakes during the puja.
Maa Katyayani Mantra
“Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah”
(ॐ देवी कात्यायन्यै नमः)
Chanting this mantra daily during Navratri helps remove negativity and invites divine energy and courage.
Offerings and Favorite Flowers of Maa Katyayani
- Favorite Flower: Red rose and marigold
- Favorite Color: Yellow or orange
- Favorite Offering: Honey and jaggery
- Fasting Food: Fruits, milk, and satvik meals
Devotees often wear yellow attire while worshiping her, as it symbolizes prosperity and positivity.
Benefits of Worshiping Maa Katyayani
- Blesses devotees with courage, strength, and victory.
- Helps remove obstacles in love and marriage.
- Grants success in education and career.
- Brings peace, prosperity, and harmony in family life.
- Removes negative energies and evil influences.
Those who face difficulties in marriage or relationships are advised to perform Katyayani Puja with full devotion and faith.
Color and Offering for Navratri Day 6
- Navratri Day 6 Color: Yellow
- Prasad Offering: Honey and jaggery-based sweets
- Planet Connection: Jupiter (Guru Graha)
- Chakra Association: Ajna Chakra (Third Eye Chakra)
Worshiping Maa Katyayani helps awaken spiritual wisdom and strengthens the third-eye chakra, enhancing intuition and clarity.
📿 Katyayani Vrat Katha (Short Story)
Once, the daughters of the sages at Yamuna Ghat observed fasts to please Maa Katyayani, praying for Lord Krishna as their husband. Pleased by their devotion, the Goddess blessed them and fulfilled their wish.
Since then, unmarried girls observe the Katyayani Vrat during Navratri to seek a righteous and loving life partner, just like Lord Krishna.
Devotional Message for Navratri Day 6
Maa Katyayani teaches us that true strength lies in purity and courage. Her blessings inspire us to fight against injustice, overcome fear, and live with righteousness. Worshiping her not only brings material success but also helps in achieving spiritual awakening.
Final Thoughts
On the sixth day of Navratri, the divine presence of Goddess Katyayani fills the hearts of devotees with light, positivity, and strength. She symbolizes victory over evil and the power of truth. Her worship helps remove life’s challenges and leads us toward peace, prosperity, and fulfillment.
May Maa Katyayani bless you and your family with courage, happiness, and success this Navratri 2025.
Jai Maa Katyayani!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Who is Goddess Katyayani?
A. Goddess Katyayani is the sixth form of Navadurga, born to Sage Katyayan, and known for slaying the demon Mahishasura.
Q2. What is the significance of worshiping Maa Katyayani?
A. Worshiping her helps remove obstacles, fulfill wishes, and bring strength, peace, and marital harmony.
Q3. What color should be worn on Day 6 of Navratri?
A. Yellow is the color for Day 6, symbolizing happiness and prosperity.
Q4. What offering is preferred by Maa Katyayani?
A. She is fond of honey, jaggery, and yellow-colored sweets.
Q5. Which mantra is chanted for Maa Katyayani?
A. The mantra “Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah” is most auspicious for her worship.
Category: Navratri 2025 | Goddess Durga | Hindu Festivals
Author: BhaktiParv.com
