Goddess Kushmanda, the fourth manifestation among the Nav Durga names, epitomizes the divine essence of Goddess Parvati during Navratri. She is revered as the creator of the cosmos, symbolizing the verdant embrace of the earth. Accordingly, the hue associated with the fourth day of Navratri is green, representing vitality, balance, and fecundity. Depicted with eight arms and seated upon a tiger, Goddess Kushmanda radiates strength and grace. As an offering on the fourth day of Navratri, it is customary to present Malpua, a delectable Indian sweet crafted from khoa, symbolizing reverence and gratitude towards the divine.
The third among the Nav Durga manifestations is Goddess Chandraghanta. This form of the Divine Mother is named after Goddess Parvati's appearance when she wed Lord Shiva and adorned her forehead with an ardhachandra (half-moon), symbolizing her role as Shiva's ardhangini (better half). Chandraghanta embodies beauty and courage. Yellow, a vibrant hue brimming with vitality, marks the color of the third day of Navratri. It infuses everything with energy and radiance. On this auspicious day, it is customary to offer milk sweets as prasad, symbolizing purity and nourishment.
The second manifestation among the revered Nav Durga names is Goddess Brahmacharini. This form of the Divine Mother embodies the unmarried aspect of Goddess Parvati, symbolizing her transition to a state of celibacy known as 'brahmacharya'. It harkens back to her earlier existence as Sati, before she united with Lord Shiva. In depictions, Goddess Brahmacharini is often portrayed holding a japamala (prayer beads) and a kamandal (water pot), traversing barefoot. Her presence signifies liberation (moksha), serenity, and abundance. On the second day of Navratri, the predominant color is blue, evoking a sense of tranquility intertwined with vibrant energy. As an offering (Prasad) on this auspicious day, it is customary to present fruits, symbolizing purity and wholesomeness.
The initial manifestation of Goddess Durga is known as Goddess Shailputri, which translates to 'Daughter of the Mountain'. This title alludes to her identity as the daughter of the Himalayas, as well as her association with the mighty peaks. She is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva. Revered on the first day of Navratri, known as Pratipada, Goddess Shailputri is depicted riding a bull, symbolizing her strength and power. She carries a trishula (trident) in one hand, signifying her authority over past, present, and future, while holding a lotus in the other, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. This form of Devi signifies vigor and action, marking the commencement of preparations to combat evil forces. The color associated with the first day of Navratri is vibrant red, symbolizing energy and auspiciousness. Ghee is offered as prasad on this auspicious day, symbolizing nourishment and divine blessings.
