Sixth Day of Navratri - Worship of Mata Katyayani to Remove Marital Obstacles

On the sixth day of Navratri, Mata Katyayani should be worshipped. Worshipping the goddess helps resolve marriage-related issues and alleviates stress in marital life. It is said that to attain Lord Krishna, the gopis first worshipped Mata Katyayani. This year, Mata Katyayani’s worship will be on October 9, 2024.

The Story of Mata Katyayani’s Incarnation

Mata Katyayani is said to be the daughter of Rishi Katyayan. Rishi Katyayan performed severe penance to obtain the goddess. Pleased by the rishi's penance, the goddess was born in his home as a daughter. It is said that the first worship of Mata Katyayani was also performed by Rishi Katyayan. The goddess has a golden, radiant complexion and rides a lion. Worshipping Mata Katyayani removes all defects in marital life.

Katyayani Defeated the Demon Mahishasura

The demon Mahishasura was defeated by Mata Katyayani. She is also known as Mahishasuramardini. When Mahishasura’s tyranny increased, the divine incarnation of the goddess took place. The goddess was given weapons by Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and other deities. The largest temple dedicated to her is in Braj, as she is also known as the goddess of Brajmandal. Mata Katyayani's form is extremely radiant and majestic. She has four arms. Her right upper hand is in the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness) and the lower one is in the Varada Mudra (gesture of boon). In her left upper hand, she holds a sword and in the lower hand, a lotus flower adorns her. Her vehicle is a lion.

Offering Honey to the Goddess

Offering honey has special significance in the worship of Mata Katyayani. Additionally, offerings of halwa and kheer can also be made to the goddess. Red color is very dear to her. To receive the goddess's special blessings, 108 lotus flowers or hibiscus flowers should be offered. Yajnas can also be performed with these flowers for the goddess. If you are unable to perform a specific puja, offer 108 red flowers to the goddess with the mantra “Om Katyayani Namah.” The Durga Saptashati can also be recited during the special worship of Mata Katyayani.

Mantra for the Goddess

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्ति रूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नम:॥

Alternatively, you can recite this mantra:

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु मां कात्यायनी रूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नम:॥

Benefits of Worshipping Katyayani

- Worship of the goddess makes life auspicious.
- Mata Katyayani is the destroyer of enemies, so worshipping her eliminates opponents or adversaries.
- During worship, focus on the Ajna Chakra (the third eye chakra).
- If there are any issues in marital life, worshipping Mata Katyayani is especially fruitful.
- Worship of the goddess brings all happiness, prosperity, and opulence.
- It is also beneficial for gaining the favor of Guru and Venus planets.