Lessons to learn from 9 Forms of Durga

The Sanskrit word “Navaratri” translates into nine days, indicating the nine-day celebration of the goddess Durga. Navaratri, as we know, is one of the most revered festivals celebrated in India. It is not only known as one of the momentous celebrations but also is one of the most vibrant festivals spanning the period of nine days! 

Also, Read Navratri 2024 - Why, When, How - It is Celebrated

The nine days of  Navratri are devoted to worshipping the nine forms of Durga, the goddess of force. Did you know the nine forms of Durga and the nine days long celebration impart important life lessons? Well, it is true, the nine forms of Durga represent life lessons like strength, growth, annihilation of evil, happiness, peace, vigour, health and propriety and wisdom.

Let us look at lessons a student can learn from the 9 days of Navaratri and the 9 forms of the goddess Durga!

What are the Lessons Learned from Navratri?

Now that we have a quick overview of Navratri and the lessons it teaches us, let's learn about the messages from Navratri Day 1 To 9 Goddess.

1. First Day: Resilience and Hardwork

The first day of the festival begins with the worship of Devi Shailaputri. This form of Durga represents rising to great heights. Like the Devi, students can learn and strive to achieve the highest sense of consciousness. Students must understand the importance of efforts and hard work to improve their studies and their overall growth.

2. Second Day: Calmness and Mindfulness

The second day of the festival marks the worship of Durga in her Brahmacharini form. The Devi Brahmacharini represents calmness and mindfulness. When talking for students, young minds are impressionable and very active, so a student must practice mindfulness daily. Whether it is giving exams or studying, having a calm mindset can significantly help students develop better concentration, which will greatly improve their academic growth.

3. Third Day: Focused Goal

Devi Chandraghanta is worshipped on the third day. Chandraghanta represents the focus and concentration in one’s mind. This day signifies withdrawing from all caprices of the mind. As a student, one must have a clear goal and work towards achieving the goal. The lesson here is to have a strong determination and singular mindset to work in the direction of their dreams.

4. Fourth Day: Be Creative and Enthusiastic

The fourth day of celebration marks the worship of Devi Kushmanda, who is worshipped because of her cosmic and creative energy. Like the goddess, students must find, retain and imply their creativity in their day-to-day life. Remember, we all have creative powers within us only those who are willing to devote their energies to enthusiasm can gain achieve great success.

5. Fifth Day: Be Belovenant and Kinder 

On the fifth day of Navarati, we worship Skandamata, the mother of Skanda. This form of goddess represents the motherly affection of the goddess. Having tenderness, reverence and respect for everyone is one of the essential qualities of a student and a human being. As a student, you must learn to respect and treat others with kindness and respect.

6. Sixth Day: Follow the Right Path

On the sixth day of the nine-day celebration, we worship the goddess Katyayani. The goddess is an embodiment of righteousness and vigour. It is said that the goddess in this form restores the balance between the good and evil in this world. Like Devi Katyayani, a student must have the courage to face difficulties and failures. Another important lesson to be learnt here is that we must always strive to be righteous in our actions in the face of adversities. 

7. Seventh Day: Have Courage

Maa Kalaratri, the seventh of Goddess Durga's nine forms, is one of the god's most destructive manifestations. In addition, Kalaratri is thought to be one of Maa Durga's most ferocious guises, driving out all types of evil spirits, demons, and ghosts as soon as she appears. Like Devi Kalaratri, a student must be fierce and courageous. Only through courage, ferociousness and resilience can one achieve their goal.

8. Eighth Day: Kindness for All

The second last day of Navaratri celebrations also known as (aasthami) is marked by the worship of Devi Mahagauri. This form of goddess represents peace and benevolence. The goddess is the embodiment of selflessness and peace. Thus an important lesson to learn would be to be kinder to each other. 

9. Ninth Day: Keep Learning

The last day of Navaratri is devoted to the goddess Siddhidatri. Goddess Siddhidatri is believed to bestow blessings of growth and prosperity to her devotees. Learning new things, spreading love and living a selfless life are a few things that students can learn from the ninth-form goddess Durga.

9 Roop of Navratri

During Navratri,9 Forms Of Durga, known as the Navdurga, are worshipped. Each day of the festival is dedicated to a different form, symbolising various aspects of life and the divine feminine energy.

• Day 1 - Shailputri: Goddess of strength, symbolizing nature and purity.

• Day 2 - Brahmacharini: Goddess of devotion and penance, representing peace and sacrifice.

• Day 3 - Chandraghanta: Goddess of courage, who removes fears and obstacles.

• Day 4 - Kushmanda: Goddess of creation, bringing light and energy to the universe.

• Day 5 - Skandamata: Goddess of motherhood, symbolizing nurturing and protection.

• Day 6 - Katyayani: Goddess of courage, associated with battle and the defeat of evil.

• Day 7 - Kalaratri: Goddess who destroys darkness and negative forces, symbolizing strength and courage.

• Day 8 - Mahagauri: Goddess of purity and forgiveness, bringing calm and inner peace.

• Day 9 - Siddhidatri: Goddess of wisdom, granting perfection and fulfilment.

What is the Learning from the Navratri Festival?

Navratri teaches us many important lessons, such as:

1. Good Wins Over Evil: It celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, showing that good always defeats evil.

2. Inner Strength: The festival reminds us to find our own inner strength and courage to face challenges.

3. Spiritual Growth: Navratri is a time for prayer, meditation, and self-reflection, helping us grow spiritually.

4. Unity in Diversity: People from different regions and cultures come together, showing India's rich cultural diversity.

5. Respect for Women: The festival honours feminine power, teaching the importance of respecting and supporting women.

6. Self-Discipline: Fasting and devotion during Navratri help us practice self-control and focus on our spiritual goals.

7. Gratitude and Devotion: It reminds us to be thankful for our blessings and express devotion in everyday life.

8. New Beginnings: Navratri symbolizes renewal, encouraging personal growth and positive changes in life.

These were the nine lessons learnt from the nine days of the Navaratri celebration. We hope students will implement these life lessons to lead meaningful and happy lives. And with this, it marks the end of the nine-day festival of Navaratri or Durga Pooja. Lastly, don't forget to enjoy this festival with your family and friends.

Happy Navaratri!