Navratras: Maa Maha Gauri is Propitiated on the Eighth Navratra

Maa Maha Gauri

Maha Gauri, the Eighth Durga

The Eighth Durga is Maha Gauri who is worshipped on the eighth navratra. She is pristine white as a conch,the moon and the jasmine blossom. Eight years of age, She is equipped with four arms and the fairest complexion of all the Durgas Shaktis. Radiating peace and compassion,Maha Gauri is usually draped in a white or green sari and is often depicted as riding a bull. Maa Maha Gauri is said to have liberated the world from evil forces.

She is endowed with three eyes, rides a bull and has four hands. Her right hand is in the mudra of allaying fear and the lower right hand holds the trishul or trident. The left upper hand holds the damaru or tambourine and lower one is in a pose of blessing plus granting boons to Her devotees.Her power is said to be unfailingly and instantly fruitful.All sins of the past, present and future are expiated and we are purified in all aspects of life when we worship this form of Durga. Maha Gauri is calm, peaceful and exists in serene intelligence.

Lord Shiva & the Ganges

It is believed that while doing austere penance when the body of Gauri became dirty due to dust and earth, Shiva cleansed it with water of the Ganges. Soon after, Her body became bright like lightening and lead to her name Maha Gauri.