On the seventh day of Navratri, it is dedicated to Goddess Kaalratri. She is believed to be the fiercest form of Goddess Durga, symbolizing the removal of darkness and ignorance. Devotees offer prayers and seek her blessings for protection and courage. The color associated with this day is Grey, signifying the power and strength that can conquer all adversities.
Importance of Seventh Day (Saptami) Of Navratri
In the context of Hindu spirituality and tradition, the seventh day, or Saptami, of Navratri holds great significance. It represents the worship of Goddess Kaalratri, a fierce form of Goddess Durga, and it symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The importance of Saptami during Navratri can be elaborated upon as follows:
1. Goddess Kaalratri: Saptami is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Kaalratri, who is depicted as a dark and fierce form of Durga. She is often portrayed riding a donkey and is believed to be the destroyer of all demons, negativity, and obstacles in one’s path.
2. Destruction of Evil: On this day, devotees seek the blessings of Goddess Kaalratri to annihilate any evil or negative forces in their lives. It’s a reminder that no matter how fierce the challenges may be, the divine energy can overcome them.
3. Courage and Protection: Saptami inspires courage and strength in the hearts of devotees. It is believed that worshipping Goddess Kaalratri provides protection and fearlessness, helping individuals overcome fear and adversity.
4. Red Color: Red is associated with this day, symbolizing power and vigor. Devotees often wear red attire and offer red flowers and fruits to the goddess as a mark of respect and devotion.
5. Prayers and Mantras: People recite special prayers and mantras dedicated to Goddess Kaalratri on Saptami. This is a way of invoking her divine presence and seeking her blessings for a harmonious and positive life.
6. Fasting and Purity: Fasting is common on Saptami, and it is believed to purify the body and soul. Devotees may observe strict fasts, consuming only certain foods and abstaining from others as a mark of devotion.
7. Spiritual Growth: Navratri, in its entirety, is a time of spiritual growth and self-improvement. Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, signifying various aspects of life and the journey towards spiritual enlightenment.
Legend of kaalratri (Goddess of the Night)
Devi Parvati, often revered as the divine consort of Lord Shiva, possesses many forms and manifestations, each representing various aspects of her supreme power and grace. Among these forms, one of the most powerful and awe-inspiring is that of Kaalratri. The name “Kaalratri” can be broken down into two components: “Kaal,” which signifies time, and “Ratri,” which means night. Kaalratri, therefore, translates to the “Goddess of the Night of Time.” This name reflects the deep symbolism and significance associated with this manifestation of Parvati.
Kaalratri is typically depicted with a fierce and terrifying appearance. She is dark-skinned, with disheveled hair, a formidable expression, and adorned with a garland of human skulls. In her four hands, she wields a sword, a trident, a noose, and the abhaya mudra, a gesture symbolizing fearlessness. Her fierce countenance represents the destructive aspect of time, as time eventually consumes all things in its path, making her a formidable and relentless force in the cosmos.
The story of Kaalratri is intricately linked to her role as the destroyer of ignorance and the ultimate slayer of darkness. She is believed to annihilate all forms of negativity, ignorance, and evil, ensuring that the divine order is restored. Devotees worship Kaalratri with devotion, seeking her blessings to overcome the challenges and obstacles in life, and to emerge victorious in the face of adversity.
Kaalratri’s significance extends beyond the spiritual realm and is closely tied to the cycle of life and death. She symbolizes the inevitable passage of time and the impermanence of all things in the material world. Her fierce demeanor serves as a reminder that change and transformation are inherent aspects of existence, and that embracing these transformations is essential for personal and spiritual growth.
In essence, Devi Parvati’s manifestation as Kaalratri serves as a potent reminder of the eternal cycle of time and the necessity of confronting one’s fears and limitations to transcend them. Her name, “Kaalratri,” encapsulates the profound wisdom that lies within the realms of Hindu mythology and spirituality, guiding individuals to seek inner strength, resilience, and illumination even in the darkest hours of their lives.
Spiritual Practices and Vedic Rituals for the Seventh Day (Saptami) of Navratri
On the seventh day (Saptami) of Navratri, devotees worship Devi Kaalratri to seek her blessings. This form of the goddess is associated with fierce energy and is believed to destroy all negativity and evil forces. Here are some spiritual practices and Vedic rituals to please Devi Kaalratri on this auspicious day:
Morning Rituals:
1. Meditation: Begin your day with meditation to calm your mind and prepare for the day’s rituals.
2. Bath and Purity: Take a ritual bath and wear clean, red or maroon-colored attire.
3. Altar Setup: Create a sacred space or altar with a picture or idol of Devi Kaalratri. Light a ghee lamp or Diya.
4. Mantras and Chants: Recite the Maa Kaalratri mantra: “ॐ देवी कालरात्र्यै नमः” (Om Devi Kaalratriyai Namah) to invoke her divine energy.
Offerings and Puja:
5. Flowers and Garland: Offer fresh flowers, especially red or maroon ones, and a garland to the goddess.
6. Incense and Dhoop: Light incense sticks and dhoop to create a fragrant ambiance.
7. Fruits and Sweets: Present fruits, sweets, and prasad as offerings.
8. Coconut: Offer a coconut to the goddess as a symbol of purity.
Special Practices:
9. Kanya Pujan: It is a tradition to worship young girls, considering them as the manifestation of the goddess. Offer them food, gifts, and seek their blessings.
10. Recite Durga Saptashati: Reading or reciting verses from the Durga Saptashati or the Devi Mahatmyam is considered auspicious on this day.
Evening Rituals:
11. Deep Yagna: Conduct a deep yagna or havan to purify the environment and offer your prayers to the goddess.
12. Dance and Music: Devotees often sing bhajans and perform traditional dances to celebrate the divine energy of Devi Kaalratri.
These rituals and practices are a beautiful way to connect with the divine energy of Devi Kaalratri during Navratri. They can help you attain spiritual growth and inner peace. The reverence and devotion expressed through these rituals are a testament to the deep-seated spirituality that is an integral part of Indian culture.
Remember that the most important aspect is to perform these rituals with a pure heart and devotion, as the sincerity of your prayers is what truly pleases the goddess.
About Author
Spiritual Coach Anupriya is a seasoned holistic health coach based in Dehradun, India. With expertise in Astrology, Tarot Card Reading, Reiki Healing, and more, she guides seekers towards holistic well-being. Her profound knowledge in psychology enhances her mission of offering spiritual guidance and healing to those in need. She’s the founder of DISHA Academy which is part of Divine Instrument.
