சத்ரு சம்ஹார திரிசதி

ஆயிரம் மந்திரங்கள் கொண்ட தொகுப்பை சகஸ்ரநாமம் என்று கூறுகிறோம். நூற்றியெட்டை அஷ்டோத்தர சதம் என்றும், பதினாறை சோடசம் என்றும், முன்னூறு மந்திரங்களைத் திரிசதி என்றும் அழைக்கிறோம். "சத்ரு சம்ஹார யாகம்" முதன் முதலில் பஞ்சேஷ்டியில் அகத்தியரால், முருகரின் உத்தரவால், அம்பாளின் அருகாமையில், அகத்தியப் பெருமானால் நடத்தப்பட்டது. அதில் எத்தனையோ விதமான மந்திரங்கள் கூறப்பட்டாலும், முதன்மை வகித்து, எண்ணம் ஈடேற வைத்தது "சுப்ரமண்ய மூல மந்திர த்ரிசதி" எனப்படுகிற சுலோகம்தான்.

இந்த மந்திரத்தை, ஜெபிப்பதால், அல்லது கேட்பதால் அனைத்து பிரச்சினைகளும் நீங்கும். எல்லாம் ஜெயமாகும்.

உங்கள் இல்லங்களில், தினமும் இது ஒலிக்கட்டும், இறை அருள், அகத்தியப் பெருமான் அருள் எல்லோருக்கும் கிடைக்கட்டும்.

சத்ரு சம்ஹார அர்ச்சனையின் பிரதான நோக்கமாக இருப்பது நம் வாழ்வில் ஏற்படும் நேரடி மற்றும் மறைமுக எதிரிகளை அறவே ஒழிப்பதோடு, பின் வரும் காலங்களில் எத்தகைய எதிரிகளும் ஏற்படாமல் தடுக்க வல்லதாக இருக்கிறது.

Om Devi Mahagauryai Namaha #mahagauri #mahagouri

#Mahagauri (महागौरी):
Meaning: The extremely fair one.
Description: She is depicted as extremely beautiful, with fair complexion, riding a bull, and having four arms. She symbolizes peace and tranquility.

**Mahagauri** (महागौरी) is the eighth form of Goddess Durga worshipped… pic.twitter.com/y13gWa9JTF

— Selvaraj Venkatesan (@niftytelevision) October 10, 2024

Mahagauri (महागौरी):

Meaning: The extremely fair one.

Description: She is depicted as extremely beautiful, with fair complexion, riding a bull, and having four arms. She symbolizes peace and tranquility.

**Mahagauri** (महागौरी) is the eighth form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Her name means "the extremely fair one," signifying her pure, serene, and luminous form. Here's an in-depth look at her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Mahagauri is believed to have attained her fair complexion and serene form after undergoing severe penance in the Himalayas. Initially, Parvati, in her form as Kali or Kalratri, had a dark complexion, which turned fair and radiant after her penance. This story symbolizes the transformation from austerity to purity and enlightenment. 

Maa Kalaratri (Navadurga) Mantra "Om Devi Kalaratryai Namaha"

Maa #Kalaratri (Navadurga) Mantra "Om Devi Kalaratryai Namaha"
The mantra "Om Devi Kalaratryai Namaha" is dedicated to Goddess Kalaratri, who is one of the most fearsome forms of the Goddess Durga and is revered in Hinduism as a powerful deity who destroys ignorance and removes… pic.twitter.com/iVIq9Ly67E

— Selvaraj Venkatesan (@niftytelevision) October 9, 2024

Maa Kalaratri (Navadurga) Mantra "Om Devi Kalaratryai Namaha" 1008 times Chanting.

The mantra "Om Devi Kalaratryai Namaha" is dedicated to Goddess Kalaratri, who is one of the most fearsome forms of the Goddess Durga and is revered in Hinduism as a powerful deity who destroys ignorance and removes darkness. This mantra is particularly chanted during the Navaratri festival on the seventh day, which is dedicated to Goddess Kalaratri. Here’s what each part of the mantra signifies:

Om: A mystical syllable that represents the universal sound and the essence of ultimate reality. It's commonly used at the beginning of mantras to invoke a connection to the divine and enhance the mantra’s spiritual power.

Devi: Means "goddess," emphasizing the feminine divine presence.

Kalaratryai: Refers specifically to Kalaratri, a form of Durga. "Kala" means time or death, and "Ratri" means night. Kalaratri is thus the one who is the death of time itself, or the night of death, signifying her role as a destroyer of darkness and ignorance.

Namaha: A term of reverential salutation, which means "I bow" or "I honor."

Chanting this mantra is believed to invoke Goddess Kalaratri’s protection from negative forces and obstacles. She is known to bestow courage and calmness to face challenges and is especially revered by those seeking to overcome fears and ensure success in spiritual endeavors. The worship of Kalaratri is also associated with the liberation of the soul and the destruction of all negativity, bringing about a transformation in the devotee's life through her intense and fiery energy.

 

Aigiri Nandini With Lyrics | Mahishasura Mardini

Aigiri Nandini With Lyrics | #Mahishasura #Mardini pic.twitter.com/lnrIRx1VHI

— Selvaraj Venkatesan (@niftytelevision) October 8, 2024

'Aigiri Nandini Nanditha Medhini' is a very popular Durga Devi Stotram. Mahishasur Mardini is an incarnation of Goddess Durga which was created to kill the demon Mahishasur. 'Aigiri Nandini' is addressed to Goddess Mahishasur Mardini. Mahishasur Mardini is the fierce form of Goddess Durga where she is depicted with 10 arms, riding on a lion and carrying weapons.

'ऐगिरी नंदिनी नंदिता मेधिनी' एक बहुत लोकप्रिय दुर्गा देवी स्तोत्र है। महिषासुर मर्दिनी देवी दुर्गा का एक अवतार है जिसे राक्षस महिषासुर को मारने के लिए बनाया गया था। 'ऐगिरी नंदिनी' देवी महिषासुर मर्दिनी को संबोधित है। महिषासुर मर्दिनी देवी दुर्गा का उग्र रूप है जहां उन्हें 10 भुजाओं, शेर पर सवार और हथियार लिए हुए दिखाया गया है। 

Vijayadashami popularly known as DUSSEHRA, is a famous and significant Hindu festival

 

Vijayadashami popularly known as DUSSEHRA, is a famous and significant Hindu festival celebrated not only in India but also in many other parts of the world. The nine days before the ultimate festival is also celebrated with enthusiasm as Navratri. Vijayadashami is celebrated on the tenth day of Shukla paksha in the month of Ashwin (as per the Hindu calendar). It marks the end of Navratri and is also a symbol of good defeating evil. Here's an in-depth look into its significance, rituals, and symbolism:

### Significance

- **Victory of Good over Evil**: Vijaya Dashami commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, as depicted in the epic Ramayana. This victory symbolizes the triumph of righteousness, dharma (righteousness), and truth over adharma (unrighteousness) and falsehood.

  - **Goddess Durga's Victory**: It also celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the power of the divine feminine to destroy evil and ignorance.

- **Kautsa Story**: Another legend associated with Vijaya Dashami involves the sage Kautsa, who was gifted gold from Indra to fulfill his promise to his teacher, Vedashira. This story highlights the importance of duty, generosity, and the power of blessings.

### Rituals and Celebrations

- **Ramlila and Ravan Dahan**:

  - In many parts of India, particularly in North India, the festival is marked by the performance of **Ramlila**, a theatrical enactment of the Ramayana. The celebrations often conclude with **Ravan Dahan**, where effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghnad are burned at night, symbolizing the destruction of evil.

- **Kanya Pujan**: On this day, young girls (kanyas) representing various forms of the goddess are worshipped, fed, and given gifts. This ritual signifies respect for the divine feminine and the nurturing aspect of life.

- **Ayudha Puja**: In South India, especially in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, tools, books, and implements are worshipped, acknowledging the importance of knowledge, arts, and craftsmanship. This is known as **Ayudha Puja** or **Shastra Puja**.

- **Vijaya Dashami Processions**: In some regions, grand processions of deities are taken out, especially of Goddess Chamundeshwari in Mysore, where a grand parade with elephants, traditional dancers, and musicians marks the festival.

- **Cultural Performances**: Various cultural programs, including music, dance, and drama, are organized, celebrating the rich heritage and arts of the region.

### Symbolism

- **Renewal and New Beginnings**: Vijaya Dashami is seen as an auspicious day to start new ventures, as it signifies the beginning of a period where good prevails. It's common for people to start new businesses or other significant endeavors on this day.

- **Personal Victory**: On a personal level, it's a time for individuals to reflect on their own lives, seeking to overcome their personal demons or negative traits, aspiring for moral and spiritual victories.

- **Educational Importance**: The festival also underscores the value of education and knowledge, with students often worshipping their books and educational tools during the Navratri period leading up to Vijaya Dashami.

### Conclusion

Vijaya Dashami, with its myriad of rituals and celebrations, encapsulates the essence of overcoming evil with good, ignorance with knowledge, and chaos with order. It concludes the Navratri celebrations by reinforcing the message of divine intervention in human affairs, the importance of righteousness, and the continuous battle against one's inner demons. This festival not only serves as a cultural and religious event but also as a philosophical guide, encouraging individuals towards self-improvement and societal harmony.

Dussehra Song: Shri Ramachandra Kripalu pic.twitter.com/mUyjvuACPg

— Selvaraj Venkatesan (@niftytelevision) October 6, 2024

Dussehra Song: Shri Ramachandra Kripalu  

Goddess Durga- 9 forms worshipped during Navratri

 'Navratri' means 'nine nights.' 'Nava' means 'nine,’ and 'Ratri' means 'night.'  

During Navratri, devotees celebrate and worship nine forms of Goddess Durga, each representing different aspects of the divine feminine energy. Here are the nine forms, known as the Navadurga.

Shailaputri (शैलपुत्री): 

Meaning: The daughter of the mountain, referring to her birth from the womb of the mountain king, Himalaya. 

Description: She is depicted riding a bull, symbolizing Dharma (righteousness), holding a trident and a lotus. She represents the power of nature.

**Shailaputri** (शैलपुत्री), meaning "the daughter of the mountain," is the first form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Here's a more in-depth look into her significance and representation:

- **Mythological Origin**: Shailaputri is another name for Goddess Parvati, who was born to King Himalaya (referred to as 'Shaila' or mountain) and his wife Menaka. This birth symbolizes her as the daughter of the mountains, encapsulating the strength, stability, and grandeur of the Himalayas.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Mount**: She rides a bull named Nandi, which symbolizes Dharma (righteousness), indicating that she upholds the balance of the universe.

  - **Weapons**: She holds a trident (trishul) in one hand, symbolizing the three qualities of sattva (purity), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance), which she controls. In her other hand, she holds a lotus, representing purity and divine beauty.

- **Significance**:

  - **Nature and Creation**: As the first form, she is considered the embodiment of the power of nature (Prakriti). Her worship signifies the beginning of creation, marking her as the one who initiates the cycle of existence.

  - **Moral and Spiritual Strength**: By worshipping Shailaputri, devotees seek to imbibe her qualities of steadfastness, patience, and the ability to endure hardships with grace, reflecting the resilience of mountains against all odds.

- **Worship**:

  - On the first day of Navratri, devotees offer her red flowers, which are symbolic of energy and activity, reflecting her dynamic nature. They also perform various rituals, including chanting of the 'Shailaputri Mantra' which is believed to invoke her blessings for strength and stability in life.

- **Mantra**: 

  - "ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः" (Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah), which translates to "Salutations to the Goddess, the daughter of the mountain."

- **Inner Reflection**: The worship of Shailaputri encourages devotees to reflect on their own roots, to connect with the foundational aspects of their life, and to seek the strength to uphold their values and duties just as the mountains stand firm against all elements.

Through Shailaputri, the essence of Navratri begins with a homage to the raw, natural power and the foundational strength that supports all creation, setting the stage for the subsequent forms of Durga that explore more nuanced aspects of divine femininity.

Brahmacharini (ब्रह्मचारिणी):

Meaning: One who practices devout austerity.

Description: Known for her deep meditation, she holds a rosary in one hand and a water utensil in the other. She symbolizes the path of knowledge and wisdom.

**Brahmacharini** (ब्रह्मचारिणी) is the second form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Her name is derived from "Brahma" (knowledge, penance, or the creator Brahma) and "Charini" (one who practices or moves). Here's an in-depth look at her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Brahmacharini represents the phase of Goddess Parvati when she performed intense penance (tapasya) to attain Lord Shiva as her consort, symbolizing the path of spiritual knowledge and devotion through austerity. This form depicts her as a seeker, embodying the essence of Brahmacharya, which in broader terms signifies a disciplined, chaste life focused on spiritual growth.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Brahmacharini is depicted with a serene posture, holding a rosary (Japa Mala) in her right hand, symbolizing spiritual practice and penance, and a water utensil (Kamandal) in her left, symbolizing her detachment and readiness to move towards higher consciousness.

  - **Clothing**: She is often shown dressed in white, symbolizing purity, simplicity, and peace.

- **Significance**:

  - **Spiritual Discipline**: She embodies the virtue of strict self-discipline, austerity, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her form encourages devotees to follow a path of spiritual discipline, emphasizing that divine knowledge and realization require effort and dedication.

  - **Devotion and Purity**: The act of penance by Brahmacharini signifies the power of devotion. Her form teaches that true love and union with the divine require purity of mind and spirit.

- **Worship**:

  - During Navratri, on the second day, devotees offer white flowers to Brahmacharini, reflecting her purity. They often perform rituals like chanting her mantra, meditating, and engaging in acts of self-discipline to emulate her austere lifestyle.

  - **Mantra**: The mantra for Brahmacharini is "ॐ देवी ब्रह्मचारिण्यै नमः" (Om Devi Brahacharinyai Namah), which means "Salutations to the Goddess who practices the path of Brahmacharya."

- **Inner Reflection**: Worshiping Brahmacharini guides devotees to reflect on their own spiritual journey, encouraging them to pursue knowledge and wisdom with diligence, patience, and a disciplined lifestyle. It's a call to look inward, to practice restraint, and to seek enlightenment through a life of purity and devotion.

Through Brahmacharini, the theme of Navratri delves deeper into the spiritual aspects of human existence, highlighting the importance of self-control, knowledge, and devotion as paths to divine union and self-realization.

Chandraghanta (चन्द्रघन्टा):

Meaning: One who has a half-moon shaped like a bell.

Description: She has ten hands and three eyes, rides a tiger, and has a moon (chandra) on her forehead, which looks like a bell (ghanta). Her form is meant to destroy demons.

**Chandraghanta** (चन्द्रघन्टा) is the third form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Her name means "the one who has a half-moon shaped like a bell." Here's a comprehensive look into her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Chandraghanta is depicted as Goddess Parvati after her marriage to Lord Shiva, transitioning from her serene form to a more formidable one. The crescent moon on her forehead symbolizes her shift to a warrior form, ready to combat evil forces. This transformation signifies her readiness to protect her devotees from all forms of negativity and malevolence.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Chandraghanta is portrayed with ten arms, each holding a different weapon, symbolizing her readiness for battle. She rides a lion, further emphasizing her warrior nature and power over wild energies.

  - **Clothing**: She is often dressed in red or other bright colors, representing courage and auspiciousness.

  - **Moon**: The crescent moon (Chandra) on her forehead looks like a bell (Ghanta), hence her name. This moon signifies beauty, grace, and rhythm, suggesting a balance between her fierce and nurturing aspects.

- **Significance**:

  - **Protection**: Chandraghanta is considered the protector of her devotees, warding off evil and granting them courage. Her fierce form instills fear in demons and negative energies, ensuring the safety of those who seek her refuge.

  - **Courage and Valor**: Her form encourages devotees to face their fears, challenges, and adversities with bravery. She symbolizes the power to defeat darkness within and around oneself.

- **Worship**:

  - During the third day of Navratri, devotees honor Chandraghanta by offering red flowers, sweets, and aromatic incense, which are believed to please her. The rituals often include chanting her mantra to invoke her protective energies.

  - **Mantra**: The mantra for Chandraghanta is "ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः" (Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah), meaning "Salutations to the Goddess who has a bell-shaped moon."

- **Inner Reflection**: Worshiping Chandraghanta helps devotees to internalize the qualities of courage, valor, and the power to confront and conquer fears. It's a reminder that one must sometimes adopt a fierce stance to protect what's sacred, whether it's one's values, loved ones, or inner peace.

Through Chandraghanta, Navratri explores the aspect of divine protection and the destruction of evil, both within the individual and in the broader world. Her form is a call to embrace one's inner strength, to stand against injustice and harm, and to maintain balance through courage and grace.

Kushmanda (कूष्माण्डा):

Meaning: Creator of the universe, the one who provides warmth.

Description: She is believed to have created the universe with her smile. She is depicted with eight arms, holding weapons and other auspicious items, and is often associated with the sun.

**Kushmanda** (कूष्माण्डा) is the fourth form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Her name can be broken down into "Ku" (a little), "Ushma" (warmth, energy), and "Anda" (egg), suggesting she is the one who infused the universe with warmth and energy, thereby creating it. Here's an in-depth look at her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Kushmanda is considered the creator of the universe. The legend goes that she created the world with her divine smile, bringing light and warmth to the cosmos when it was dark and cold. This act of creation from her smile symbolizes the power of positivity and the life-force energy.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Kushmanda is depicted with eight arms, each holding different objects like a lotus, a bow, an arrow, a pot of nectar, a mace, a discus, a rosary, and a sword. This variety of weapons and items signifies her power over all aspects of creation.

  - **Mount**: She is often shown seated on a tiger or a lion, symbolizing her control over wild energies and her fearless nature.

  - **Color**: She is typically dressed in a red or golden color, representing energy, vibrancy, and auspiciousness.

- **Significance**:

  - **Creation and Life Energy**: Kushmanda embodies the creative force of the universe. Her worship is associated with the infusion of life, warmth, and energy into existence, making her the source of all vitality.

  - **Joy and Positivity**: Her smile creating the universe underscores the theme of positivity and joy as essential elements of creation. She teaches the power of a positive attitude in fostering creation and growth.

- **Worship**:

  - On the fourth day of Navratri, devotees offer her red flowers, particularly marigolds, and light lamps or diyas, symbolizing the light and warmth she brings. Special sweets and dishes are prepared as offerings, celebrating the joy of life.

  - **Mantra**: Her mantra is "ॐ देवी कूष्माण्डायै नमः" (Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah), meaning "Salutations to the Goddess who created the universe."

- **Inner Reflection**: Worshiping Kushmanda encourages devotees to embrace joy, warmth, and positivity in their lives. It's a reminder of the power of a positive mindset in creating one's world, and the importance of inner warmth in nurturing growth and happiness.

Through Kushmanda, Navratri celebrates the aspect of creation, joy, and the life-giving energy of the divine feminine. Her form teaches that the power to create and sustain life, both literally and metaphorically, lies within us, sparked by positivity and divine grace.

Skandamata (स्कन्दमाता):

Meaning: Mother of Skanda (Kartikeya).

Description: She holds her son Skanda on her lap with four arms, seated on a lotus, symbolizing purity and motherhood.

**Skandamata** (स्कन्दमाता), meaning "the mother of Skanda" (another name for Kartikeya, the god of war), is the fifth form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Here's a detailed look at her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Skandamata is depicted as Goddess Parvati holding her son Skanda (or Kartikeya) in her lap. This portrayal symbolizes the divine bond of motherhood and the nurturing aspect of the divine feminine. Kartikeya, being the commander-in-chief of the gods' army, signifies protection and victory over evil.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Skandamata is often depicted with four arms. She holds Kartikeya in one of her arms while the other three hands hold different objects - a lotus, which symbolizes purity and devotion; a bell, symbolizing knowledge and awakening; and sometimes a pot of nectar, symbolizing immortality and divine energy. 

  - **Mount**: She is shown seated on a lion, emphasizing her power and courage, similar to her warrior son.

- **Significance**:

  - **Motherhood and Protection**: Skandamata embodies the protective and nurturing qualities of a mother. Her form represents the divine energy that safeguards and nurtures, reflecting the universal motherly love that cares for all beings.

  - **Victory and Courage**: Through her connection with Kartikeya, Skandamata also signifies victory, courage, and wisdom in battle. She inspires her devotees to imbibe these qualities to face life's challenges.

- **Worship**:

  - On the fifth day of Navratri, devotees offer her white flowers, particularly jasmine, symbolizing purity and serenity. The worship often includes singing hymns and performing aarti, which are believed to invoke her blessings for protection, courage, and maternal care.

  - **Mantra**: Her mantra is "ॐ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः" (Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah), meaning "Salutations to the Goddess, the mother of Skanda."

- **Inner Reflection**: Skandamata's worship guides devotees to reflect on the importance of nurturing qualities, protection, and the divine bond between a mother and child. It encourages one to seek the strength and wisdom that a mother provides, fostering a sense of security and guidance in life.

Through Skandamata, Navratri delves into the theme of divine motherhood, emphasizing not only the physical aspect of motherhood but also the spiritual and protective qualities. Her form invites devotees to embrace their nurturing side, seek protection from the divine, and strive for victory and wisdom in their endeavors.

Katyayani (कात्यायनी):

Meaning: Daughter of the sage Katyayana.

Description: She rides a lion and has four arms, symbolizing courage and bravery. She is believed to have been born to end the tyranny of the demon Mahishasura.

**Katyayani** (कात्यायनी) is the sixth form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Her name is derived from her father, the sage Katyayana, indicating her birth from his severe penance. Here's a detailed exploration of her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Katyayani emerged from the collective energies of various gods to slay the demon Mahishasura, who was terrorizing the universe. Her birth is a testament to the power of penance and divine intervention, symbolizing the energy that overcomes darkness and tyranny.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Katyayani is often depicted with four arms, holding a sword, a lotus, a bell, and a kamandal (water pot). These items represent her readiness for battle, her divine beauty, her capacity to awaken consciousness, and her austere life, respectively.

  - **Mount**: She rides a lion, which symbolizes her courage, power, and authority over the animal kingdom, reinforcing her role as a fierce warrior goddess.

- **Significance**:

  - **Courage and Warrior Spirit**: Katyayani embodies the fierce form of Durga, ready to combat evil. Her form is a direct challenge to oppression and injustice, inspiring devotees to stand against tyranny with courage and determination.

  - **Creation through Penance**: Her origin story highlights the power of penance (tapasya) in creating divine forces for good. This aspect encourages devotees to engage in spiritual practices as a means to overcome personal and societal evils.

- **Worship**:

  - On the sixth day of Navratri, devotees offer her red flowers and perform special pujas, often involving the recitation of the Katyayani mantra. Her worship includes acts of bravery and strength, symbolized through various rituals like fasting and night vigils.

  - **Mantra**: The mantra for Katyayani is "ॐ देवी कात्यायन्यै नमः" (Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah), which translates to "Salutations to Goddess Katyayani."

- **Inner Reflection**: Katyayani's worship invites devotees to awaken their inner warrior, to confront and overcome the battles in their lives, whether they are personal challenges or broader societal issues. Her form is a reminder of the strength and resolve one can draw from divine energy to fight against injustice.

Through Katyayani, Navratri celebrates the valor and determination of the divine feminine to eradicate evil. Her form encourages devotees to channel their own energies towards righteousness, using both spiritual and physical strength to uphold justice and peace. This aspect of Navratri is particularly empowering, fostering a sense of courage and the will to act against darkness in all its forms.

Kalratri (कालरात्रि):

Meaning: The one who destroys darkness.

Description: With a dark complexion, disheveled hair, and four hands, she rides a donkey. Her fierce form is meant to dispel fear and darkness.

**Kalratri** (कालरात्रि), also known as **Kalaratri** or **Kali**, is the seventh form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. The name "Kalratri" translates to "the night of death," signifying her fierce form that destroys darkness and ignorance. Here's an in-depth look at her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Kalratri is believed to be the fiercest form of Durga, created to annihilate the demon Raktabija, whose blood could create new demons when it touched the ground. This aspect of her narrative symbolizes her power to destroy the seemingly indestructible forces of evil.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Kalratri has a dark complexion, symbolizing the darkness of the night, which she controls. She has disheveled hair, four arms, and a fierce expression. Her right hand is in the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness), while the other holds a sword. Her left hands hold a dagger and sometimes a torch or a severed head, symbolizing her power over death.

  - **Mount**: She rides a donkey, which is traditionally associated with the god of death, Yama, further emphasizing her dominion over death and darkness.

- **Significance**:

  - **Destruction of Evil**: Kalratri embodies the destructive energy of the divine feminine, aimed at annihilating evil forces and ignorance. Her form is a reminder that darkness, fear, and death are also aspects of life that can be controlled and transcended.

  - **Fearlessness**: By offering fearlessness (Abhaya Mudra), she teaches that true strength lies in facing and overcoming our deepest fears, both internal and external.

- **Worship**:

  - On the seventh day of Navratri, devotees worship Kalratri with great reverence, often using dark flowers or no flowers at all, to signify her association with darkness. Her puja might involve night vigils and offerings that are simple yet profound, reflecting her austere and fearsome nature.

  - **Mantra**: Her mantra is "ॐ देवी कालरात्र्यै नमः" (Om Devi Kalratryai Namah), which means "Salutations to the Goddess of the Night of Death."

- **Inner Reflection**: Worshiping Kalratri encourages devotees to confront their own darkness, fears, and mortality. Her form invites introspection about the transient nature of life and the power one has to face the darkest aspects of existence with courage. It's an invitation to transform fear into strength, ignorance into knowledge, and darkness into light.

Through Kalratri, Navratri explores the darker, more intense aspects of the divine feminine. Her worship is an acknowledgment of the necessity of destruction for creation, the cycle of life and death, and the ultimate realization that even in the dark, there is divine protection and liberation. This form of Durga teaches the profound lesson that facing our fears and the unknown with courage leads to true spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Mahagauri (महागौरी):

Meaning: The extremely fair one.

Description: She is depicted as extremely beautiful, with fair complexion, riding a bull, and having four arms. She symbolizes peace and tranquility.

**Mahagauri** (महागौरी) is the eighth form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Her name means "the extremely fair one," signifying her pure, serene, and luminous form. Here's an in-depth look at her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Mahagauri is believed to have attained her fair complexion and serene form after undergoing severe penance in the Himalayas. Initially, Parvati, in her form as Kali or Kalratri, had a dark complexion, which turned fair and radiant after her penance. This story symbolizes the transformation from austerity to purity and enlightenment.

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Mahagauri is depicted as having a fair complexion, radiating purity and peace. She has four arms, holding a tambourine and a trident, with two hands in mudras (gestures) of blessing and fearlessness. Her serene face and calm demeanor contrast sharply with the fierce forms of Durga.

  - **Clothing**: She is often dressed in white or light-colored garments, symbolizing her purity.

  - **Mount**: She rides a bull named Nandi, just like Shailaputri, indicating her connection with nature's strength and righteousness.

- **Significance**:

  - **Purity and Serenity**: Mahagauri represents tranquility, peace, and purity. Her form is a reminder of the inner peace and tranquility one can achieve through penance, meditation, and spiritual practice.

  - **Transformation**: Her transformation from a dark, fierce form to a radiant, fair one symbolizes the potential for personal transformation and the purification of the soul through devotion and spiritual discipline.

- **Worship**:

  - On the eighth day of Navratri, devotees offer her white flowers and perform rituals with a focus on peace and harmony. This day is often associated with celebrations like Kanya Pujan, where young girls are worshipped as embodiments of the goddess, symbolizing innocence and purity.

  - **Mantra**: Her mantra is "ॐ देवी महागौर्यै नमः" (Om Devi Mahagaurayai Namah), translating to "Salutations to the Great Fair Goddess."

- **Inner Reflection**: Worshiping Mahagauri guides devotees towards inner purification and the path to spiritual enlightenment. It encourages the cultivation of inner peace, forgiveness, and the shedding of one's darker aspects through spiritual practices. Her form invites reflection on how one can achieve inner radiance through a life of simplicity, purity, and devotion.

Through Mahagauri, Navratri explores themes of transformation, serenity, and the purification of the self. Her form is a beacon of hope and inspiration, teaching that through dedication and spiritual practice, one can transcend the mundane to achieve a state of divine purity and peace. This aspect of Navratri emphasizes the power of inner beauty and tranquility, urging devotees to strive for a life that mirrors her luminous serenity.

Siddhidatri (सिद्धिदात्री):

Meaning: The giver of supernatural powers or siddhis.

Description: She is portrayed with four arms, seated on a lotus, and often associated with Lord Shiva, who receives half her body in Ardhanarishvara form. She bestows all types of siddhis (supernatural powers) to her devotees.

**Siddhidatri** (सिद्धिदात्री) is the ninth and final form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri. Her name translates to "the one who bestows supernatural powers" or "siddhis." Here's an in-depth look at her significance and attributes:

- **Mythological Background**: Siddhidatri is often associated with the concept of siddhis, which are supernatural powers or perfections that yogis aim to attain through deep meditation and spiritual practices. In some traditions, she is linked with Lord Shiva, where half of his body becomes hers, forming the Ardhanarishvara (half-male, half-female) form, symbolizing the unity of Shakti (energy) and Shiva (consciousness).

- **Attributes**:

  - **Appearance**: Siddhidatri is depicted with four arms, seated on a lotus or sometimes on a lion, indicating her dominion over all forms of energy. She holds a discus, a conch, a trident, and sometimes a book or a lotus, symbolizing her control over the elements, spiritual knowledge, and divine beauty.

  - **Clothing**: She is often portrayed in red or saffron attire, colors associated with energy, passion, and divine love.

- **Significance**:

  - **Bestower of Siddhis**: Siddhidatri is the giver of all siddhis, representing the pinnacle of spiritual achievement. Her worship signifies the attainment of the ultimate goal in spiritual practice, where the practitioner gains mastery over the self and the universe's energies.

  - **Spiritual Enlightenment**: She embodies the power of enlightenment, where one transcends worldly attachments and illusions, achieving oneness with the divine consciousness.

- **Worship**:

  - On the ninth day of Navratri, devotees offer her red flowers, incense, and special sweets or fruits, often culminating in celebrations with music and dance. This day is considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices like meditation and yoga, as it is believed that invoking Siddhidatri can aid in achieving siddhis.

  - **Mantra**: Her mantra is "ॐ देवी सिद्धिदात्र्यै नमः" (Om Devi Siddhidatryai Namah), meaning "Salutations to the Goddess who bestows supernatural powers."

- **Inner Reflection**: Siddhidatri's worship encourages devotees to reflect on their spiritual journey, focusing on the pursuit of higher consciousness and the mastery of various yogic powers. It's a call to strive for self-realization, where one recognizes the divine within and achieves harmony with the cosmos.

Through Siddhidatri, Navratri concludes by celebrating the ultimate goal of spiritual practice – enlightenment and the acquisition of divine powers. Her form reminds devotees that the divine feminine, or Shakti, is not just about physical force or material prosperity but also about the subtle, spiritual energies that lead to true liberation. Siddhidatri's worship is an invitation to transcend the material world and embrace the spiritual realm, where one's true essence merges with the divine.

Each form of Goddess Durga is worshipped on consecutive days of Navratri, with each day dedicated to the celebration of these different aspects, from strength and power to wisdom and serenity. This worship is not just about seeking divine blessings but also about invoking these qualities within oneself.

மாசில் வீணையும் மாலை மதியமும்

மாசில் வீணையும் மாலை மதியமும் வீசு தென்றலும் வீங்கிள வேனிலும் மூசு வண்டறை பொய்கையும் போன்றதே ஈசன் எந்தை யிணையடி நீழலே. -------- #திருநாவுக்கரசர் ----------ஓம் நமச்சிவாயா திருச்சிற்றம்பலம் pic.twitter.com/K3L65kWssC

— Selvaraj Venkatesan (@niftytelevision) October 6, 2024

பாடல் எண் : 1

மாசில் வீணையும் மாலை மதியமும்
வீசு தென்றலும் வீங்கிள வேனிலும்
மூசு வண்டறை பொய்கையும் போன்றதே
ஈச னெந்தை யிணையடி நீழலே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 இறைவனாகிய எந்தையின் திருவடி நீழல் குற்றமற்ற வீணையின் நாதமும் , மாலையிலே தோன்றிய நிலவின் தண்மையும் , வீசுகின்ற தென்றலின் சாயலும் , செறிந்த இளவேனிலின் மாட்சியும் , ஒலிக்கும் வண்டுகள் மொய்க்கும் பொய்கையின் குளிர்ச்சியும் போன்று இன்பம் பயப்பதாகும் .

பாடல் எண் : 2
நமச்சி வாயவே ஞானமுங் கல்வியும்
நமச்சி வாயவே நானறி விச்சையும்
நமச்சி வாயவே நாநவின் றேத்துமே
நமச்சி வாயவே நன்னெறி காட்டுமே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 ஞானமும் , கல்வியும் , நானறிந்த வித்தையும் பஞ்சாட்சரமே ; நா கூறி வழிபடுவதும் அதனையே ; நன்னெறி காட்டுவதும் அத்திருமந்திரமேயாகும் .

குறிப்புரை :
 ஞானமும் - பரஞானம் . கல்வி - அபரஞானம் . ஞானமும் கல்வியும் - கல்வியால் விளையும் அறிவும் கல்வியும் . நானறிவிச்சை - நான் அறிந்தனவாய மந்திரம் அல்லது கலையுணர்வு . நன்னெறி - ஞானம் , வீடுபேறடையும் வழி .


பாடல் எண் : 3
ஆளா காரா ளானாரை யடைந் துய்யார்
மீளா ஆட்செய்து மெய்ம்மையுள் நிற்கிலார்
தோளா தசுரை யோதொழும் பர்செவி
வாளா மாய்ந்துமண் ணாகிக் கழிவரே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 இறைவனுக்கு ஆளாகமாட்டார் ; அவ்வாறு ஆளாகிய மெய்யடியார்களைச் சார்ந்து உய்யவும் மாட்டார் . மீளா ஆளாய் மெய்ம்மையுள் நிற்கும் ஆற்றல் இல்லார் ; அத்தகைய இழிந்தவர் செவிகள் துளையிட்டுப் பயன்படுத்தவியலாத செவியோ ? அந்தோ ! வீணே இறந்து மண்ணாகி ஒழிவர்! 


பாடல் எண் : 4
நடலை வாழ்வுகொண் டென்செய்திர் நாணிலீர்
சுடலை சேர்வது சொற்பிர மாணமே
கடலின் நஞ்சமு துண்டவர் கைவிட்டால்
உடலி னார்கிடந் தூர்முனி பண்டமே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 நாணமற்றவர்களே ! துன்பம் மிக்க வாழ்வினைக் கொண்டு என்ன செய்வீர் ? நீர் இறுதியில் சுடுகாடு அடைவது உறுதி என்பதற்கு ஆன்றோர் சொற்களே சான்று . திருப்பாற்கடலினின்றெழுந்த ஆலகால விடத்தை உண்ட இறைவர் கைவிட்டால் , உடல் கிடந்து ஊரார் வெறுக்கும் பொருளாகிவிடும் .

குறிப்புரை :
 நடலை - துன்பம் . என்செய்திர் - உயிர்கட்குப் பயன் தரும் செயல்கள் என்செய்தீர்கள் . நாணிலீர் - வெட்கம் இல்லாதவர்களே . சுடலை - இடுகாடு . சேர்வது - அடைவது , சொல் பிரமாணம் - சத்தப்பிரமாணத்தாலறிவதொன்றேயன்றி காட்சி அநுபவத்தாலும் அறிவதாம் . உடலினார் - உடல் . இழித்தற் பொருளில் வந்தது ஆர் விகுதி . ஊர்முனிபண்டம் - பிணம் என்று பேரிட்டு ஊர் மக்களால் வெறுக்கப்படும் பொருளாகும் . கைவிட்டால் - காத்தலை நீங்கினால் .


பாடல் எண் : 5
பூக்கைக் கொண்டரன் பொன்னடி போற்றிலார்
நாக்கைக் கொண்டரன் நாமம் நவில்கிலார்
ஆக்கைக் கேயிரை தேடி யலமந்து
காக்கை கேயிரை யாகிக் கழிவரே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 பூக்களைக் கையிற்கொண்டு சிவபிரானின் பொன்னார் திருவடிகளைப் போற்றுதலில்லாதவர்களும் , நாவினைக் கொண்டு இறைவன் திருநாமத்தை நவிலாதவர்களும் தத்தம் உடலுக்கே உணவுதேடிச் சுழன்று இறுதியில் காக்கைக்கே தாம் இரையாகி ஒழிவர் .

குறிப்புரை :
 பூக்கைக்கொண்டு என்க . பொன்னடி - பொன்னைப் போலப் பொதிதற்குரிய திருவடி . நாக்கைக்கொண்டு - நாவைக் கொண்டு என்க . நாமம் - இறைவன் திருப்பெயர் . நவில்கிலார் - கூறாதவர்கள் . ஆக்கைக்கே - உடலுக்கே . இரை - உணவு . அலமந்து - வருந்தி . காக்கைக்கு - காகங்களுக்கே . இரையாகி - உணவாகி . கழிவர் - அழிந்தொழிவர் .

பாடல் எண் : 6
 குறிக ளும்மடை யாளமுங் கோயிலும்
 நெறிக ளும்மவர் நின்றதோர் நேர்மையும்
 அறிய ஆயிரம் ஆரணம் ஓதிலும்
 பொறியீ லீர்மன மென்கொல் புகாததே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 விதியற்றவர்களே ! குறிகளும் , அடையாளமும் , கோயிலும் , நெறிகளும் , அவ்விறைவர் நின்றதோர் நேர்மையும் அறிய ஆயிரம் வேதங்கள் கூறினும் உம் மனம் அவற்றுட் புகாதது என்னையோ ?

பாடல் எண் : 7
 வாழ்த்த வாயும் நினைக்க மடநெஞ்சும்
 தாழ்த்தச் சென்னியுந் தந்த தலைவனைச்
 சூழ்த்த மாமலர் தூவித் துதியாதே
 வீழ்த்த வாவினை யேன்நெடுங் காலமே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 தன்னை வாழ்த்துதற்கு வாயும் , தன்னை நினைக்க அறிவற்ற நெஞ்சும் , தன்னை வணங்கத் தலையும் தந்த தலைவனாகிய பெருமானை வண்டுகள் சூழ்ந்த மலர்களைத் தூவித்துதிக்காமல் , வினையேன் நெடுங்காலம் வீழ்த்தியவாறு என்னே ?.

குறிப்புரை :
 மடநெஞ்சு - அறியாமையின் பாற்பட்ட மனம் . தாழ்த்த - வணங்க . சென்னி - தலை . சூழ்த்த மாமலர் - ஆராய்ந்து எடுத்த சிறந்த மலர் . சூழ்ந்த - சூழ்த்த வலித்தல் விகாரம் . துதியாதே - போற்றி வணங்காமல் . வினையேன் - தீவினையேனாகிய நான் . நெடுங்காலம் - பலகாலம் . வீழ்த்தவா - கழித்தேன் . ஆ அது வருந்தத் தக்கது .

பாடல் எண் : 8
 எழுது பாவைநல் லார்திறம் விட்டுநான்
 தொழுது போற்றிநின் றேனையுஞ் சூழ்ந்துகொண்
உழுத சால்வழி யேயுழு வான்பொருட்
 இழுதை நெஞ்சமி தென்படு கின்றதே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 எழுதிய பாவைச் சித்திரம் போன்ற அழகுடைய பெண்கள் திறத்தின் நீங்கி நான்தொழுது போற்றி நிற்க . என்னையும் ஆராய்ந்து கொண்டு உழுத சால் வழியே பின்னும் உழுவதன் பொருட்டு மிக்க இழிவுடைய நெஞ்சம் செய்கின்றது தானா என்னை ?.

பாடல் எண் : 9
  நெக்கு நெக்கு நினைபவர் நெஞ்சுளே
 புக்கு நிற்கும் பொன்னார்சடைப் புண்ணியன்
 பொக்க மிக்கவர் பூவுநீ ருங்கண்டு
 நக்கு நிற்பர் அவர்தம்மை நாணியே.

பொழிப்புரை :
 நெகிழ்ந்து நெகிழ்ந்து நினைபவர் நெஞ்சுளே புகுந்து நிற்கும் பொன்னார் சடைப் புண்ணியன் , பொய்ம்மையாளர் பூசையிற் பூவையும் நீரையும் கண்டு அவர் தம்மை நாணிச் சிரித்து நிற்பன் .

குறிப்புரை :
நெக்கு நெக்கு - மனம் நெகிழ்ந்து நெகிழ்ந்து . உருகி உருகி என்க . நெஞ்சுள் - மனத்தினுள்ளே . புக்கு நிற்கும் - புகுந்து எழுந்தருளியிருக்கின்ற . பொன்னார்சடை - அழகு பொருந்திய சடை , பொக்கம் - பொய் . அவர்தம்மை - அவரை நாணி - வெட்கமடைந்து . நக்குநிற்பர் - ஏளனநகை புரிந்திருப்பர் .

பாடல் எண் : 10
 விறகிற் றீயினன் பாலிற் படுநெய்போல்
 மறைய நின்றுளன் மாமணிச் சோதியான்
 உறவு கோல்நட் டுணர்வு கயிற்றினால்
 முறுக வாங்கிக் கடையமுன் நிற்குமே.

பொழிப்புரை :

 விறகில் தீப்போலவும் . பாலிற்பொருந்திய நெய்போலவும் , மாமணிச் சோதியானாகிய இறைவன் மறைய நின்றுளன் ; உறவு என்னுங்கோலை நட்டு உணர்வு என்ற கயிற்றினால் முறுகவாங்கிக் கடைந்தால் முன்னின்று அருள் வழங்குவான் . 

குறிப்புரை :
 விறகில் தீயின் - விறகின்கண் மறைந்திருக்கும் நெருப்பைப் போல . நன்பாலில்படு - நல்ல பாலில் மறைந்திருந்து பின்னர்த் தோன்றும் . மாமணிச் சோதியான் - சிறந்த மணியின் கண் ஒளி மறைந்திருந்து சாணை பிடித்த பின்னர் வெளிப்படல் போல உள்ளத்துள்ளே மறைந்து நிற்பவன் . உறவு - அறிவு , உணர்வு , அன்பு , மாறிக்கூறுவாருமுளர் . அறிவாகிய கயிற்றினாலே . முறுகவாங்கிக் கடைய - நன்றாக இழுத்துக்கடைய . முன்னிற்கும் - நம்முன் தோன்றி அருளுவான் . விறகு . பால் , மணி இவற்றுள் மறைந்து நிற்கும் தீ முதலானவற்றை முறையே முறுகக் கடைதல் , வாங்கிக் கடைதல் , கடைதல் என்பனவற்றால் வெளிப்படுத்தலாம் . அதுபோலப் பக்குவம் இல்லாதோர் பக்குவான்மா இவர்களுக்குக் கடவுள் தோன்றியருளும் வழி கூறப்பட்டது . கயிற்றினால் வாங்கிக் கடைதல் முன் இரண்டற்கும் பொது .