10 October - NAV DURGA (EIGHTH NIGHT) MAHAGAURI

 

MahaGauri is one of the forms of the Hindu goddess Durga and is honored on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Navratri festival. Navratri is a Hindu festival that spans nine nights and is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga in her various forms. Each day of Navratri is associated with a specific form or aspect of the goddess, and MahaGauri is the focus on the eighth day.

MahaGauri is often depicted as a radiant and pure goddess. Her name "MahaGauri" is derived from two words: "Maha," which means great, and "Gauri," which means fair or white. She is often depicted as having fair skin, symbolizing purity and serenity. She is often shown wearing white clothes and adorning herself with white flowers and jewelry.

Devotees pray to MahaGauri for purity, peace, and happiness. She is believed to bring calm and tranquillity to the lives of her devotees. Her worship is an important aspect of Navratri celebrations, and her blessings are sought for spiritual growth and inner purification.

Navratri is celebrated with various rituals, fasting, music, dance (such as Garba and Dandiya), and colorful decorations. It is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India and by Hindus worldwide.