The sixth day of Navratri, known as Shashthi, is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, a fierce and powerful form of Durga. She is revered as the warrior goddess who vanquishes evil and protects righteousness. Daughter of sage Katyayana, she took form to destroy the demon Mahishasura and restore peace in the cosmos. Goddess Katyayani is depicted riding a lion, carrying a sword, a lotus, and a weapon in her four hands, while one hand is in a blessing pose. Her strong and formidable presence represents courage, justice, and the destruction of evil.

Goddess Katyayani is often worshipped by those seeking strength and victory over obstacles. She symbolizes the inner power and fearlessness needed to overcome challenges, both physical and spiritual. Worshipping her on this day is believed to grant strength, courage, and protection, helping devotees in their battle against negativity and injustice.

Symbolism of Goddess Katyayani

Goddess Katyayani is the epitome of divine strength and bravery. Her connection to the lion, symbolizing courage and dominance, reflects her ability to destroy evil forces. She is also revered as the goddess of marital bliss, and unmarried women especially worship her to seek a righteous and loving spouse.

Katyayani's energy is associated with the Ajna chakra (third-eye chakra), which governs intuition, clarity, and spiritual insight. By meditating on this chakra and invoking her blessings, devotees can cultivate mental clarity, focus, and the wisdom to overcome life’s trials. Her fierce form reminds her followers that justice and righteousness must be upheld, even in the face of adversity.

Wearing Orange on Shashthi

The color associated with the sixth day of Navratri is orange, representing vibrancy, energy, and courage—qualities that Goddess Katyayani embodies. Orange is the color of power, action, and transformation, reflecting the goddess’s fiery nature and her role as the destroyer of evil.

By wearing orange on this day, devotees align themselves with the energetic and transformative powers of Goddess Katyayani. It represents the vitality and determination needed to overcome life's obstacles and challenges, fostering a sense of inner strength and fearlessness.

Rituals and Fasting on Day 6

Devotees begin the day with a ritual bath and the recitation of mantras dedicated to Goddess Katyayani. Orange or red flowers, fruits, and sweets are offered to the goddess, symbolizing her fiery and powerful energy. As with the other days of Navratri, fasting is observed, with many devotees consuming sattvic foods to purify the body and mind, enhancing their connection with the divine.

The mantra dedicated to Goddess Katyayani is chanted to invoke her strength and blessings. A popular mantra for this day is:

"Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah."

Chanting this mantra is believed to strengthen the connection between devotees and the goddess, granting them courage, strength, and protection from all forms of negativity.

Significance of Worshiping Goddess Katyayani

Worshiping Goddess Katyayani is believed to bestow strength, courage, and success in life’s battles. Her blessings provide the energy to overcome obstacles and to defeat the forces of darkness and injustice. Devotees seek her divine intervention for success in both personal and professional pursuits, especially in overcoming challenges.

She is also believed to remove negative energies and promote harmony in the household. Unmarried women, in particular, worship her to find a worthy life partner, while married couples pray for peace, love, and happiness in their married lives.

Celebrate Navratri with Sustainable Fashion

As you honor Goddess Katyayani on the sixth day of Navratri, consider adorning yourself in sustainable and handwoven garments that reflect the vibrancy of Indian culture. Sudeshi Weaving’s Puja Collection offers a range of eco-friendly sarees, dupattas, and festive wear created by skilled artisans. These garments, crafted using traditional weaving techniques, are perfect for celebrating the powerful and transformative spirit of Goddess Katyayani.

By choosing the Puja Collection, you not only celebrate Navratri in a sustainable way but also support local artisans who are preserving India’s handloom heritage.

For more details on the Puja Collection, [CLICK HERE]