During the war between Durga and Mahishasura, Durga takes nine different forms over nine days to win over the demon. These forms are celebrated over 9 days and the victory at the end is celebrated as Vijaya Dasami.
Day 1: Maaheswari
On the first day, Durga is worshipped as Goddess Maaheswari, known for defeating the demons Madhu and Kaidaba.
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Kolam: Rice flour kolam
Prasadham: Ven ponggal, Karamani sundal
Flowers: Jasmine, Vilvam
Fruits: Banana
Palangal : Prosperity and a long life
Day 2: Rajarajeswari
The second day is dedicated to Rajarajeswari, a form embodying supreme power and grace.
Kolam: Wheat flour kolam
Prasadham: Puliyodarai, Puttu
Flowers: Mullai, Thulasi
Fruits: Mango
Palangal: Prosperity and wealth
Day 3: Varali Ambigai / Vaaraahi
On the third day, Durga assumes the form of Varali Ambigai to continue her battle with Mahishasura.
Kolam: Javvarisi flour kolam
Prasadham : Sakkarai ponggal, Ellu podi
Flowers: Sampangi, Shenbagam
Palangal : Success in career and promotions
Day 4: Maha Lakshmi
Durga takes the form of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, as she wages war against the demon king.
Kolam: Padikattu kolam with atchatai
Prasadham: Kadambam Saatham
Flowers: Jaathi Malli, Senthamarai
Fruits: Guava
Palangal: Health and happiness
Day 5: Vaishnavi Devi
On this day, Durga is honoured as Vaishnavi, symbolizing fertility and abundance.
Kolam: Bird kolam with Kadalai maavu (gram flour)
Prasadham: Curd rice, Ponggal
Flowers: Parijatham, Kadambam
Fruits: Pomegranate
Palangal: Fertility and prosperity
Day 6: Kowmaari
Durga appears as Kowmaari, a fierce warrior goddess. Devotees offer coconut rice and ellu sadam.
Kolam: Devi naamangal written with parupu (lentils)
Prasadham: Coconut rice
Flowers: Hibiscus
Fruits: Oranges
Palangal: Longevity and wealth
Day 7: Shambhavi Devi
Shambhavi Devi is honoured on the seventh day with prayers and offerings.
Prasadham: Lemon rice
Flowers: Hibiscus
Fruits: Dates
Palangal : Fulfillment of wishes
Day 8: Narasimhi
On the eighth day, Durga takes the form of Narasimhi, vanquishing the demon Rakhtabeehan.
Kolam: Thaamarai (lotus) kolam
Prasadham: Paal saadam
Flowers: Marudhaani leaves, Sampangi
Fruits: Grapes
Palangal: Glory and recognition
Day 9: Saraswathi Devi
The festival concludes with the worship of Saraswathi Devi, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
Kolam: Karpooram podi kolam
Prasadham: Sakkarai ponggal
Flowers: Thaamarai (lotus), Marikolunthu
Fruits: Grapes
Palangal: Wealth and prosperity
Source / Image Credit : ரவிகுமார் சுப்ரமணியம், Om Spiritual Shop, Poojn.in
