Maa Kalaratri: The Seventh Form of Durga


In the Vedas and Puranas, Maa Kalaratri is worshipped as the seventh form of Goddess Durga, and she is revered for her fierce and powerful nature. The name "Kalaratri" is derived from two words: Kala, meaning time or death, and Ratri, meaning night. Thus, Maa Kalaratri is often referred to as the goddess who brings the night of destruction, symbolizing the end of ignorance and evil.

Maa Kalaratri’s appearance is fearsome, yet she is immensely compassionate towards her devotees. Her dark complexion, wild hair, and blazing eyes reflect her fierce nature. She is depicted with four hands, holding a sword and iron hook, while the other two hands bless her devotees and remove fear. She rides a donkey, symbolizing humility, and her fierce form represents her power to destroy darkness and negativity.

Despite her terrifying form, Maa Kalaratri is also called Shubankari, meaning the one who does auspicious things. She protects her devotees from evil forces, ghosts, and negative energies. Worshipping Maa Kalaratri on the seventh day of Navratri is believed to remove all fears and negative influences from one’s life.

Important Points about Maa Kalaratri:

  • Known For:
    Maa Kalaratri is known as the goddess of destruction who annihilates evil and darkness. Her fierce form symbolizes the ultimate destruction of ignorance and negativity.

  • Associated Color:
    The color associated with Maa Kalaratri is black, representing power, strength, and the destruction of evil. Devotees wear black on the seventh day of Navratri to honor her energy.

  • Offerings (Food):
    Devotees offer jaggery to Maa Kalaratri. This offering is believed to remove all sorrows and pains, and it brings prosperity and good health.

  • Mode of Transport:
    Maa Kalaratri rides a donkey, which symbolizes simplicity and humility. Despite her fierce form, her ride on a donkey reflects that she is grounded and approachable by all devotees.

Spiritual Significance:

Maa Kalaratri is worshipped for her ability to destroy negative energies, fears, and evil forces. Her blessings provide protection from all forms of harm, and she helps her devotees conquer their fears and challenges. Her form reflects that the destruction of ignorance and negativity leads to spiritual enlightenment and auspicious outcomes.

Worshipping Maa Kalaratri grants the strength to overcome obstacles and the courage to face adversities without fear. She is known to remove all suffering from her devotees, leading them to peace, protection, and prosperity.


Related FAQs:

Why is Maa Kalaratri worshipped on the seventh day of Navratri?
Maa Kalaratri is worshipped for her ability to destroy evil and negative energies. Worshipping her on the seventh day of Navratri brings protection and the removal of fear.

What offerings are made to Maa Kalaratri?
Devotees offer jaggery to Maa Kalaratri, as it is believed to remove sorrows and bring health and prosperity.

Why does Maa Kalaratri ride a donkey?
Maa Kalaratri rides a donkey, symbolizing humility and simplicity. Despite her fierce form, the donkey reflects her approachable nature and her power to be accessed by all.

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