Composing…
Composing…
Worshipped on the nine nights of Sharad Navratri (and Chaitra Navratri). Each form represents a stage of spiritual growth from raw matter (Shailaputri) to siddhi (Siddhidatri).
Daughter of the mountain
Born to Himavan after Sati's self-immolation; consort of Shiva.
The one who practises tapas / unmarried Devi
Performed severe tapas to win Shiva as her husband; symbol of austerity and self-discipline.
She who has a moon-shaped bell on her forehead
Wears a half-moon shaped like a bell; her sound terrifies asuras.
She who created the cosmic egg with her smile
Existed before the universe; with her smile (or laughter) the cosmic egg was created.
Mother of Skanda (Kartikeya)
Mother of Kartikeya / Skanda; embodiment of motherly care.
Born of sage Katyayana
Born of sage Katyayana's tapas; warrior who slew Mahishasura.
The dark night (of cosmic destruction)
Most fierce form; killed the asura Raktabija. Despite fierce iconography, called Shubhankari (auspicious-bringer) for her devotees.
The greatly fair one
After her tapasya, regained her original fair complexion. Embodiment of beauty and serenity restored.
Bestower of all siddhis
Worshipped by gods, gandharvas, asuras for siddhis. Bestowed siddhis on Shiva, becoming the left half of Ardhanarishvara.