Maa Mahagauri: Navratri Eighth Day Goddess
On the eighth day of Navratri, Maa Mahagauri is worshipped. She is also known as Shwetambardhara (dressed in white clothes), Vrisharudha (rides the bull), Chaturbhuji (has four hands), and Shambhavi (bestows bliss and happiness). Maha’ means great, and ‘Gauri’ means white.
Devi Mahagauri sits gracefully upon a white bull, adorned with three radiant eyes and four divine arms. She extends two of her arms in the Varada and Abhay mudras, offering blessings and dispelling fear from the hearts of her worshippers. In her other two arms, she wields the trident and tambourine, symbols of her power and rhythm. Her attire and ornaments glisten in pure, immaculate white.
Mahagauri Maa Navratri Puja Tithi 2023: Shardiya Navratri – October 22, 2023, Sunday
NOTE: The exact time for Puja may vary from location to location. Consult a professional Pandit for more accurate puja timing in your country, city, town or village.
Story Behind Mahagauri Devi
In her unmarried form, Goddess Gauri underwent rigorous penance to win Lord Shiva as her husband. This kanya, who was, in fact, Goddess Parvati, devotedly practised penance for many years. Her austerities led to a layer of dust settling on her skin, giving her a black appearance. Impressed by her unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva granted her the boon of marriage. The sacred waters of the river Ganga were used to cleanse the dust from Goddess Parvati’s skin, restoring her complexion to a radiant white, and she came to be known as Mahagauri.
Another narrative tells of the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha, who wrought havoc on Earth. Their demise could only be ensured by Parvati’s daughter. Following Lord Brahma’s guidance, Lord Shiva humorously named her Kali, which incited her anger. The goddess embarked on a rigorous penance, beseeching Lord Brahma to restore her original complexion. Pleased by her devotion, Lord Brahma instructed her to bathe in the holy Mansarovar. In the pristine waters of this renowned lake, Goddess Parvati’s dark skin separated from her and took on a female form, known as Kaushiki, who ultimately vanquished the demons. Meanwhile, Goddess Parvati herself appeared with her restored white complexion and became known as Mahagauri.
Maa Mahagauri Pooja Vidhi
On the eighth night of Navratri, the worship of Mahagauri is performed using sacred puja items. To initiate the ritual, a shallow clay pan is used as a base. Three layers of mud and seven types of grains are carefully placed within the pan. A touch of water is sprinkled to ensure the grains receive the required moisture. In the base, a Kalasha, or holy water pot, is arranged, containing Ganga jal, Supari, a few coins, Akshat (raw rice mixed with turmeric powder), and Durva grass. The Kalasha is then encircled by five mango tree leaves and crowned with a coconut. This marks the beginning of worship.
Bhog for Maa Mahagauri
On the eighth day of the Navratra Puja, devotees offer coconut bhog and sharifa (custard apple) to Maa Mahagauri as these are her favourite fruits.
For detailed information on Puja Vidhi, you can speak to our expert pundits and astrologers at NamoAstro any time.
Maa Mahagauri Dhyan Mantra
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु माँ गौरी रूपेण संस्थिता| नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः || माँ महागौरी मंत्र:
Maa Mahagauri Mantra
“ओम ह्रीं श्रीं ग्लौं गं गौरी गीम नमः”
Significance of Worshipping Maa Mahagauri
Nature exhibits two extremes: one in the form of Kaalratri, the most fearsome and destructive, and the other, Mahagauri, the most exquisite and tranquil manifestation of the Divine Mother. Mahagauri epitomises beauty and grace and is the bestower of all desires. She grants blessings and fulfils your material wishes, nurturing inner contentment and propelling you forward in life.
The term “Gauri” also signifies the bestower of knowledge and the catalyst for progress, ultimately leading to liberation. Mahagauri imparts momentum and ultimate freedom, ushering you towards liberation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Mahagauri represent?
A: Mahagauri represents the epitome of beauty and purity. She is believed to fulfil the wishes and desires of her devotees and bring them contentment.
