The legend of Nau Devi, or the Nine Goddesses, is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and is associated with the worship of Shakti, the divine feminine energy. These nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped especially during Navratri, a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. The Nau Devi are:
- Maa Shailputri
- Maa Brahmacharini
- Maa Chandraghanta
- Maa Kushmanda
- Maa Skandamata
- Maa Katyayani
- Maa Kaalratri
- Maa Mahagauri
- Maa Siddhidatri
These goddesses represent different aspects of Goddess Durga and are believed to have originated to protect the universe from evil forces.
The Mythological Origin of Nau Devi
1. The Birth of Shakti
The story of Nau Devi begins with the legend of Goddess Shakti, the supreme divine power. According to Hindu mythology, when the balance of the universe was disturbed due to the tyranny of demons, the Tridev (Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh) invoked the divine feminine energy. This energy took the form of Goddess Durga, who manifested in nine different forms at different times to restore dharma (righteousness) and destroy evil.
2. The Battle Against Mahishasura
One of the most famous legends associated with Nau Devi is the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura was a powerful demon who had received a boon from Lord Brahma that no man or god could kill him. Drunk with power, he started attacking heaven and earth, causing chaos.
To put an end to his tyranny, Goddess Durga was created from the combined energy of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva). She fought a fierce battle for nine days against Mahishasura and his army. During these days, she took different forms each embodying a different power to combat various demons. On the tenth day, she finally slayed Mahishasura, bringing peace to the world. This victory is celebrated as Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
The Nine Forms of Nau Devi
Each of the Nau Devi has a unique story and significance:
Maa Shailputri
She is the first form of Durga, born as Parvati, the daughter of King Himavan (the Himalayas).
She represents strength and devotion.
Maa Brahmacharini
She is the unmarried form of Parvati, who practiced severe penance to marry Lord Shiva.
She symbolizes penance, patience, and knowledge.
Maa Chandraghanta
She got her name from the half-moon (Chandra) on her forehead, resembling a bell (Ghanta).
She is known for destroying demons and bringing peace to devotees.
Maa Kushmanda
She is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile.
She brings light and vitality to the world.
Maa Skandamata
She is the mother of Lord Kartikeya, the commander of the divine army.
She grants wisdom and protection to her devotees.
Maa Katyayani
She was born to Sage Katyayana as an incarnation of Durga to defeat Mahishasura.
She represents courage and righteousness.
Maa Kaalratri
She has a dark complexion and a terrifying form, destroying all evil forces.
She represents protection from darkness and fear.
Maa Mahagauri
She is the calm and compassionate form of Durga, associated with purity and peace.
She grants moksha (liberation) and spiritual wisdom.
Maa Siddhidatri
She grants spiritual enlightenment and fulfills the wishes of devotees.
She is the final form of Durga and bestows perfection and success.
The Connection to Nau Devi Temples
There are nine sacred temples of Nau Devi spread across India, where devotees seek blessings from the Goddess. Some of the most famous temples include:
- Vaishno Devi (Jammu & Kashmir)
- Jwala Devi (Himachal Pradesh)
- Chintpurni Devi (Himachal Pradesh)
- Naina Devi (Himachal Pradesh)
- Mansa Devi (Uttarakhand)
- Chamunda Devi (Himachal Pradesh)
- Kangra Devi (Himachal Pradesh)
- Shakumbhari Devi (Uttar Pradesh)
- Kalika Devi (Gujarat)
Significance of Nau Devi Worship
The Nau Devi represent different aspects of life and guide devotees towards strength, wisdom, and devotion. Worshiping them during Navratri is believed to remove obstacles, bring prosperity, and grant spiritual awakening.
Many devotees undertake the Nau Devi Yatra, a pilgrimage to visit all nine temples to seek the Goddess’s blessings for a fulfilled and protected life.
Story Summary
The story of Nau Devi is a tale of courage, wisdom, and divine power. The nine goddesses are worshiped as forms of Shakti, who protect and guide devotees towards righteousness. Their worship is not just a ritual but a spiritual journey towards enlightenment and strength.