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Festival Profile

Maha Navami

Ninth day of Navaratri, worshipping the fiercest form of Goddess Durga.

All festivals

Maha Navami, the ninth day of Navaratri, is dedicated to Goddess Siddhidatri and is the final day of worship before Vijayadashami, honouring the goddess's victory.

Stories behind the festival

Maha Navami is part of the Navaratri observance rooted in the Devi Mahatmya, with regional forms such as the Bengali Ayudha and Saraswati puja.

On the ninth day, the goddess took the form of Siddhidatri, bestowing spiritual powers, as she approached the final victory over the demon Mahishasura on the following day.
Devi Mahatmya; regional Navaratri tradition

Why we celebrate

Maha Navami, the ninth day of Navaratri, is dedicated to Goddess Siddhidatri and is the final day of worship before Vijayadashami, honouring the goddess's victory.
Devi Mahatmya; regional Navaratri tradition

When

It falls on the ninth day (Navami) of the bright fortnight of Ashwin during Sharad Navaratri.

Who celebrates / for whom

Devotees of Durga across India; in Bengal the final worship of Durga Puja is performed on this day.

Origin

Maha Navami is part of the Navaratri observance rooted in the Devi Mahatmya, with regional forms such as the Bengali Ayudha and Saraswati puja.
Devi Mahatmya; regional Navaratri tradition

Key deities

Goddess Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Navadurga.

How to celebrate

Perform the Navami puja, offer bhog, and in many regions worship instruments, tools and the goddess Saraswati. Conduct a havan (fire ritual) in some traditions.

Rituals & offerings

Navami bhog, havan, worship of the nine goddesses, and preparation for the final Vijayadashami immersion.

Key facts

Maha Navami is the last day of Durga Puja worship in Bengal before the idol immersion. In some regions it is combined with Ashtami.
Devi Mahatmya; regional Navaratri tradition