Worshipping The Many Forms Of The Devi

By Author: Chetan Merchant
Total Articles: 2
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The Goddess Durga, according to Hindu scripture, is the manifestation of the feminine side of the divine. In many different incarnations, she uses her strength and sagacity to rid the universe of evil. Devi pooja, or worship of the goddess, therefore, is a very important part of the scared duties of a pious Hindu. Here is some useful information about the most prominent incarnations of the Goddess, and the reasons to worship her.

The Nine Forms of the Goddess

During the Navratris, the nine different incarnations of the Goddess is worshipped, one being worshipped on each day. It is believed that praying to each one of the Goddess' manifestations results in the removal of obstacles from one's path, and leads to good luck and happiness. All kinds of problems can be resolved through sincere pooja of the Goddess. The first of the incarnations to be worshipped at this time is Shailputri, who is known better as Parvati, the spouse of Lord Shiva. Next, it is Brahmacharini who is worshipped by bhaktas, in the hope that she will give them grace, wisdom, and show them the ...
... path to moksha. Chandraghanta is worshipped for prosperity on the third of these nine holy days.

Kushmanda, who is the incarnation of the Goddess that played a part in the creation of the universe, comes next, followed by Skandamata. Skandamata is the mother of the god Kartikeya, who is also known as Skanda (hence, the name of the Goddess). On the seventh day, Katyayani is worshipped, who took birth in the mortal world as per the wish of a wise sage. Kaal ratri is worshipped on the seventh day, and is a rather terrifying manifestation of the Goddess. However, it is only evil-doers who need to fear her, as she has taken on her fearsome form to oust them from the world and to protect all innocents. Maha Gauri, the goddess who meditated for many years in the Himalayan wilderness comes next. Performing rituals in her honour washes away all the past sins of the devotee, and also helps him or her stay on the right path in the future. Finally comes the Siddhidatri, who is adept at healing all maladies, of the mind or body. He devotees find themselves replenished with life and vigour after a pooja done to appease her.

Worshipping the Goddess

As has been mentioned above, doing a pooja in the honour of the Goddess is the right way to a happier, more satisfying, and prosperous life. For those who are true believers, the Goddess is kind and merciful, and always ready to help her devotees. These days, it is easier than ever to perform a ritual pooja in honour of the Goddess. There are many pooja websites online which can be used for this purpose. Not only are poojas carried out through these websites throughout the year, special poojas can be arranged for, such as during the Navratris. As this is the best time for worshipping the Goddess, booking a pooja well in advance in one of the ancient puja temples is a good idea.