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नवदुर्गा
Shakta (Devi Mahatmya, Devi Bhagavata Purana, Markandeya Purana)
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).
Day 1 · Yellow
Daughter of the mountain
Born to Himavan after Sati's self-immolation; consort of Shiva.
Day 2 · Green
The one who practises tapas / unmarried Devi
Performed severe tapas to win Shiva as her husband; symbol of austerity and self-discipline.
Day 3 · Grey
She who has a moon-shaped bell on her forehead
Wears a half-moon shaped like a bell; her sound terrifies asuras.
Day 4 · Orange
She who created the cosmic egg with her smile
Existed before the universe; with her smile (or laughter) the cosmic egg was created.
Day 5 · White
Mother of Skanda (Kartikeya)
Mother of Kartikeya / Skanda; embodiment of motherly care.
Day 6 · Red
Born of sage Katyayana
Born of sage Katyayana's tapas; warrior who slew Mahishasura.
Day 7 · Royal Blue
The dark night (of cosmic destruction)
Most fierce form; killed the asura Raktabija. Despite fierce iconography, called Shubhankari (auspicious-bringer) for her devotees.
Day 8 · Pink
The greatly fair one
After her tapasya, regained her original fair complexion. Embodiment of beauty and serenity restored.
Day 9 · Purple
Bestower of all siddhis
Worshipped by gods, gandharvas, asuras for siddhis. Bestowed siddhis on Shiva, becoming the left half of Ardhanarishvara.