Today, April 6, marks the ninth and final day of Chaitra Navratri. On this auspicious day, devotees worship the ninth form of Goddess Durga – Maa Siddhidatri. She is considered the Goddess of Siddhis (spiritual powers) and salvation, and is believed to bless her devotees with wisdom, wealth, strength, and divine grace.
According to Hindu scriptures, all divine powers and Siddhis have been bestowed by Maa Siddhidatri. Even Lord Shiva is said to have attained Siddhis through her blessings. It is believed that by her grace, Lord Shiva’s half body transformed into that of a Goddess, and he came to be known as Ardhanarishwara.
Rituals for Worship on April 6
Follow this step-by-step guide to perform the puja of Maa Siddhidatri today:
- Wake up early, bathe, and wear clean, fresh clothes.
- Bathe the idol or image of the Goddess with Ganga water or purified water.
- Offer white-colored clothes to Maa as she is fond of the color white.
- Offer white flowers as a symbol of devotion and purity.
- Apply roli and kumkum on the idol.
- Present offerings like sweets, dry fruits (panch mewa), and fruits.
- It is auspicious to offer nine types of fruits, nine varieties of flowers, and a meal prepared with the nine rasas (tastes).
- Maa Siddhidatri especially loves seasonal fruits, black gram (chana), puri, kheer, coconut, and halwa.
- Chant her name and meditate upon her form with full devotion.
- Perform her aarti with reverence and dedication.
Importance of Kanya Pujan Today
Kanya Pujan, or the worship of young girls as manifestations of the Goddess, holds special significance on Navami. Devotees invite young girls (aged 2 to 10), wash their feet, offer them food, gifts, and seek blessings. It is believed that performing Kanya Pujan on this day brings the blessings of Maa Siddhidatri and completes the Navratri rituals.
Beej Mantra of Maa Siddhidatri
“Hreem Kleem Aim Siddhaye Namah”
Chanting this mantra is said to bring spiritual awakening, success, and divine energy into one’s life.
Aarti of Maa Siddhidatri
Victory to you, O Maa Siddhidatri, the granter of all spiritual powers.
You are the protector of your devotees, the Mother of all beings.
With the mere utterance of your name, Siddhis are attained.
Your name alone purifies the mind and soul.
You make the impossible possible,
By simply placing your hand on the head of your devotee.
There is no specific method to worship you,
You are the source of all spiritual success.
Those who remember you on Sundays,
And hold your image in their hearts,
You fulfill all their desires,
And never leave any task incomplete.
Your grace and divine illusion,
Bless those under your protection.
You grant all Siddhis to the fortunate ones,
Who surrender themselves at your feet.
You reside in the Himalayas,
Your presence fills the Maha Nanda Temple.
I seek your shelter, O Divine Mother,
You are the giver to your true devotees.