Navratri - Celebrating the 8th Day (Color: Purple) - 22nd October 2023

 On the 8th day of Navratri, bathed in the royal color of Purple, the festivities are at their peak. This day is all about Goddess Mahagauri, one of the kind forms of Goddess Durga.

Who is Goddess Mahagauri?

Goddess Mahagauri is a calm and gentle form of the mother goddess. She is shown as having fair skin and is connected with peace and kindness.

Why is the 8th Day Special?

The 8th day of Navratri is important because it's the second last day of the festival. People seek the blessings of Goddess Mahagauri, believed to bring inner peace and purity.

The History Behind the 8th Day:

In Hindu stories, Goddess Mahagauri did tough prayers to marry Lord Shiva. Her prayers made her skin dark and dusty. Lord Shiva washed her with the holy Ganges River water, making her fair again. That's why she's called Mahagauri, meaning "extremely fair."

How is the 8th Day Celebrated?

1.  Morning Prayers: The day starts with early prayers to connect with Goddess Mahagauri.
2.  Fasting: Many people fast, only having fruits and milk. The fast ends after evening prayers.
3.  Goddess Mahagauri's Worship: People make a special place with her picture or idol. They offer flowers, incense, and lamps to show their love.
4.  Chanting Mantras: People chant special words to feel close to Goddess Mahagauri.
5.  Honoring Young Girls: In some places, young girls are respected and their feet are washed as a sign of honor.
6.  Thinking About Life: People use this day to think about their spiritual journey and inner purity.
7.  Dancing and Having Fun: People celebrate with traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya Raas.

Mantras for the 8th Day:

1.  "Om Devi Mahagauriyai Namah"
2.  "Om Shri Mahagauriyai Namah"
3.  "Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Mahagauri Rupena Samsthita"

The Significance of the 8th Day:

The 8th day is about the gentle and kind nature of Goddess Mahagauri. People seek her blessings for inner peace and purity. It's a time for spiritual growth and self-reflection.

As Navratri gets closer to the end, excitement grows, leading to the final day when the victory of good over evil is celebrated with joy and devotion.

You can read other blogs also,

1. Celebrating the Unconditional Love of Mothers on Mother's Day 
2. Ghatsthapana celebration 7th day
3. Ghatsthapana celebration
4. Lata Mangeshkar - Enduring Icon of Indian Music
5. Rohit Sharma - India's Iconic Cricketer
6. The Legendary Athlete of India - PT Usha
7. Jyotirao Phule - Pioneer of Social Reform
8. Good Friday - A Day of Remembrance and Reflection