On the ninth day of Navratri, devotees honor Maa Siddhidatri, the ultimate form of Goddess Durga. Her name combines “Siddhi,” meaning supernatural powers, and “Datri,” meaning giver, highlighting her role as the bestower of divine attainments. Maa Siddhidatri is believed to have granted eight primary Siddhis — Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Ishitva, and Vashitva — to her devotees, including deities like Lord Shiva. This benevolence is said to have transformed Lord Shiva into Ardhanarishwar, a composite form embodying both masculine and feminine energies.
Iconography of Maa Siddhidatri: Maa Siddhidatri is depicted seated on a lotus, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. She possesses four arms, each holding a symbolic item:
- A mace (Gada)
- A discus (Chakra)
- A conch shell (Shankha)
- A lotus flower
Her mount is a lion, representing courage and strength. Andhra Pradesh News
Significance of Worship: Devotees believe that worshiping Maa Siddhidatri on Navami, the ninth day of Navratri, leads to the fulfillment of desires and spiritual enlightenment. It is also considered an auspicious time to perform Kanya Puja, where young girls are revered as embodiments of the goddess. The Economic Times
Puja Vidhi (Worship Ritual):
- Purification: Begin with a clean mind and surroundings.
- Sankalpa (Resolution): Take a vow to perform the puja with devotion.
- Invocation: Invite Maa Siddhidatri by chanting her mantra
- Offerings: Present flowers, incense, diya (lamp), and bhog (prasad) to the goddess.
- Aarti: Conclude with the singing of hymns and aarti to seek her blessings.
