The sixth day of Sharadiya Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani. It is believed that Goddess Parvati took this form to kill the demon Mahishasura. This form is considered quite violent. Maa Katyayani is also known as the warrior goddess. Katyayani Maa rides a majestic lion. She is depicted with four arms, where the left two arms carry lotus and a sword, and right two arms stay in Varada and Abhaya Mudras. The Goddess is draped in red attire.
According to a legend, “The Goddess got this name Katyayini because she was born to the Katyayana Rishi. Some texts also describe that she is an Avatar of Goddess Shakti and got this name because Rishi Katyayana was the first one to worship her. When the world was in danger due to the atrocities of Mahishasura, Goddess Katyayani slew him. As soon as she arrived in front of the Demon Mahishasura, she dismounted herself from the lion being armed with all the weapons.
The demon took the form of a bull and the goddess sprang over his back. With her tender feet, she pushed his head down and then slew his neck. That’s why she has also got the name Mahishasuramardini (the Mahishasura’s slayer).”
Astrological Aspect: Planet Jupiter (Brihaspati) is ruled by the Goddess Katyayani. Worshipping Her helps in pacifying the ill effects of this Jupiter planet.
Favourite Flower - Red colour flowers especially rose
Mantra - Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah|
Prayer: Chandrahasojjvalakara Shardulavaravahana|
Katyayani Shubham Dadyad Devi Danavaghatini|
Stuti: Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Katyayani Rupena Samsthita|