6th Day of Navratri: Devotees Honor Maa Katyayani

By Amit Kumar

On Saturday, September 27, followers throughout the country dedicated the sixth day of Navratri to the worship of Maa Katyayani, one of Goddess Durga’s most revered forms. Navratri, a key Hindu festival running from September 22 to October 2 this year, is marked by daily rituals, prayers, and community celebrations.

Maa Katyayani, often depicted riding a lion and wielding a sword and lotus, is regarded as the warrior goddess who vanquished demon king Mahishasura.

The ritual order for the day included early morning bathing, wearing clean or new garments, and offering shringar items, seasonal fruits, meetha paan, and homemade sweets during prayers. The preferred color for devotees was grey, symbolizing balance and wisdom on this sixth day. Temples across India held special pujas featuring Durga Saptashati chanting and hawan ceremonies.

Families honored tradition by offering honey as bhog and reciting the Katyayani Maha Mantra—a revered prayer especially among unmarried girls. Throughout the day, most devotees consumed sattvik food after completing ceremonies.

The sixth day’s observance focused on inspiring courage and promoting harmony within families. Communities participated in evening aartis, continuing the vibrant legacy of Navratri, which celebrates the victory of good over evil with devotion, music, and decorated homes.