Navarathiri is one of the biggest and grandest celebration, celebrated across India and several other countries. This festival signifies the triumph of good over evil, the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura.
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.
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
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