Day 9 of Mahanavami: Maa Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Goddess Durga, is worshiped on the ninth day
Maa Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Goddess Durga, is worshiped on the ninth day or the Mahanavami. She can be seen surrounded and worshiped by men, demons, Gods & yakshas (celestial beings). She is the giver of all siddhis (perfection) and ready to bestow happiness on her followers.
It is believed that one side of Lord Shiva’s body is that of Goddess Siddhidatri. Therefore, he is also known by the name of Ardhanarishwar.
As per Brahmavaivart Purana, the Devi can bestow 18 different types of siddhis or perfections. These siddhis are Mahima, Garima, Ladhima, Prapti, Prakaamya, Ishitva and Vashitva sarvakaamaal, Saadhita, Sarvagynatva, Amaratva, Sarvanyayakatva, Bhavana & Siddhi.
Worshiping Maa Siddhidatri wholeheartedly heart helps devotees attain perfection along with happiness and purity of heart.
This four-armed avatar of Devi Siddhidatri clad in a red saree is seen sitting on a lotus flower. She is depicted holding a Gada (mace) in her upper right hand, a chakra in her lower right hand, a lotus flower in her lower left hand and a conch-shell in her upper left hand. It is said that one can even see a disc of light around her golden crown. This light is believed to instill devotion in the heart of devotees towards the Supreme Power and liberation from karmic bindings. Goddess Siddhidatri bestows occult powers on her worshipers and is therefore revered by beings from all three realms i.e. heaven, hell and earth.
On the ninth day of Navratri, devotees bathe themselves early morning and worship the ‘Navratri Kalash’. All the chapters of ‘Durga Saptashi’ are recited and Mahanavami fast is observed. The devotees please the Goddess by performing puja, hawan and chanting Siddhidatri Pujanmantras.
Devotees offer her nine oranges, burn incense, light earthen lamp, offer fragrant flowers, fruits, gems and clothing as a part of the puja ritual.
The Mantra
Siddh Gandharv Yagyadhair Surair Marairapi
Sevyamana Sada Bhooyaat Siddhida Siddhi Dayanee.
Meaning: “The ways in which all the gods, goddess and divine souls worship you, in the same manner we worship you. Kindly grant your blessings on us.”
