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


Source / Image Credit : ரவிகுமார் சுப்ரமணியம், Om Spiritual Shop