Maa Mahagauri: The Eighth Form of Durga
Share
According to the Vedas and Puranas, Maa Mahagauri is the eighth form of Goddess Durga, worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri. Her name is derived from two words: Maha meaning great, and Gauri meaning white or fair. She is called Mahagauri because of her extremely fair and radiant complexion, symbolizing purity, peace, and calmness. She is also regarded as an incarnation of Goddess Parvati in her youthful form, representing eternal beauty and purity.
Maa Mahagauri is known for her power to cleanse the sins of her devotees and remove all their sufferings. It is believed that worshipping her grants peace, purity of mind, and the fulfillment of desires. According to Hindu scriptures, after performing severe penance to win Lord Shiva as her consort, her body became dark with the dust of her austerities. When Lord Shiva bathed her in the holy Ganga, she regained her pure, radiant form, which is why she is called Mahagauri.
In her depiction, Maa Mahagauri rides a bull (Nandi), symbolizing patience and righteousness. She holds a trident (Trishul) in one hand and a damaru (small drum) in another, symbolizing the balance of destruction and creation. Her two other hands are in the Abhaya (fear-dispelling) and Varada (blessing) mudras, assuring protection and fulfillment to her devotees.
Important Points about Maa Mahagauri:
-
Known For:
Maa Mahagauri is known for her purity, calmness, and power to grant wishes. She is revered for washing away the sins of her devotees and guiding them toward inner peace. -
Associated Color:
The color associated with Maa Mahagauri is white, symbolizing purity, serenity, and divine grace. Devotees often wear white clothes on the eighth day of Navratri to honor her. -
Offerings (Food):
Devotees offer coconut to Maa Mahagauri as part of their prayers. Coconut is a symbol of purity, devotion, and prosperity, and it is believed that offering it to the goddess brings blessings of a peaceful and prosperous life. -
Mode of Transport:
Maa Mahagauri rides a bull (Nandi), which signifies righteousness and patience. Her mode of transport represents her connection to purity, as well as her strength and divine protection for her devotees.
Spiritual Significance:
Maa Mahagauri is worshipped for purity, patience, and peace. Her blessings are believed to bring tranquility and spiritual growth, and she helps her devotees purify their hearts and minds. Worshipping her also ensures that one's desires are fulfilled while guiding them on the path of righteousness.
Maa Mahagauri’s radiant and serene form symbolizes the victory of purity over darkness. She encourages her devotees to lead a pure life, free from negativity, and to seek inner peace through devotion and righteous actions.
Related FAQs:
Why is Maa Mahagauri worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri?
Maa Mahagauri is worshipped for her purity and power to wash away sins. Worshipping her on the eighth day of Navratri grants peace, serenity, and the fulfillment of desires.
What offerings are made to Maa Mahagauri?
Devotees offer coconut to Maa Mahagauri as it symbolizes purity, prosperity, and devotion, bringing peace and blessings into the devotee’s life.
Why does Maa Mahagauri ride a bull?
Maa Mahagauri rides a bull (Nandi), symbolizing patience and righteousness. The bull represents her strength, determination, and the divine protection she offers to her devotees.