Shardiya Navratri will begin on Thursday, October 3, with Ghatasthapana and Shailputri Puja. The nine-day celebration will conclude on Saturday, October 12, with Dussehra festivities. As it says Navratri Ke Nau Rang, let's take a look what actually does these " Rang " specify.
Day 1: Orange
On the first day of Navratri, we worship Shailaputri, known as the "daughter of the mountains." She is the first form of Goddess Durga, symbolizing purity and nature. Wearing orange on this day brings warmth and liveliness, filling the wearer with positive energy.
Day 2: White
On the second day of Navratri, we honor Brahmacharini, whose name means "one who observes austerity." She represents wisdom and knowledge as the second form of Goddess Durga. Dressed in white and walking barefoot, she symbolizes purity and serenity. Wearing white on this day invites her blessings of wisdom, peace, and devotion.
Day 3: Red
On the third day of Navratri, we worship Chandraghanta, known as "the one with a crescent moon on her brow." As the third form of Goddess Durga, she represents courage and beauty. Riding a tiger and dressed in red, she embodies love and desire. Devotees often wear red to feel vibrant and full of life.
Day 4: Royal Blue
Day 5: Yellow
On the fifth day of Navratri, we honor Skandamata, known as the "mother of Skanda (Kartikeya)." She represents motherhood and compassion as the fifth form of Goddess Durga. Riding a lion and dressed in yellow, she symbolizes happiness and hope. Wearing yellow on this day brings the blessings of Skandamata, filling one’s life with joy, abundance, and harmony.
Day 6: Green
On the sixth day of Navratri, we honor Katyayani, meaning "one born in the Katyayan lineage." As the sixth form of Goddess Durga, she represents courage and success. Riding a lion and dressed in green, she symbolizes growth and peace. Wearing green on this day reflects Katyayani's bravery and offers blessings of protection and well-being from the Goddess.
Day 7: Grey
On the seventh day of Navratri, we honor Kalaratri, known as "the death of time." As the seventh form of Goddess Durga, she represents liberation and destruction. Riding a donkey and dressed in grey, she embodies subtlety and mystery. Wearing grey on this day invites Kalaratri's blessings of protection, detachment, and transformation.
Day 8: Purple
On the eighth day of Navratri, we celebrate Mahagauri, which means "one with a fair complexion." As the eighth form of Goddess Durga, she represents grace and beauty. Dressed in purple and riding a bull, she symbolizes wealth and nobility. Wearing purple on this day is believed to bring prosperity, so devotees are encouraged to seek her blessings while dressed beautifully in this color.
Day 9: Peacock Green
On the ninth day of Navratri, we honor Siddhidatri, meaning "the one who provides all siddhis." As the ninth form of Goddess Durga, she represents perfection and completion. She rides a lotus or a lion and is adorned in peacock green, a color symbolizing abundance and diversity. Wearing this vibrant green on this day is believed to invite Siddhidatri's blessings for fulfillment, enlightenment, and completion, while celebrating the beauty of the natural world.