Navratri is devoted to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, which has already commenced on October 3, 2024, and is set to conclude on October 12, with Dusshera falling on the same day

The sixth day of Shardiya Navratri is observed as Shashthi and dedicated to Maa Katyayani

She is often depicted riding a majestic lion and may have four, ten, or eighteen hands

In most representations, she holds a lotus flower and a sword in her left hand, while her right hand is positioned in the Abhaya and Varada Mudras, symbolising protection and blessings

According to Drik Panchang, Maa Katyayani is associated with the planet Brihaspati, embodying wisdom and harmony

It is believed that to destroy the demon Mahishasura, Goddess Parvati took the form of Maa Katyayani it is the most violent form of Maa Parvati and is also known as Warrior Goddess

It is believed that in this form, Maa Parvati was born in the house of sage Katya and came to be known as Katyayani

Known as the destroyer of evil, praying to Maa Katyayani is said to purify the sins of the devotees, drive out evil spirits and remove obstacles

Wearing red on this day is considered auspicious as it is believed to invoke the blessings of the divine

Red represents the fierce and protective energy of Goddess Katyayani, filling devotees with confidence and enthusiasm

Maa Katyayani, the sixth form of Maa Durga, loves honey. So, on the sixth day of Navratri, offer honey or kheer made of honey and honey halwa to Maa Katyayani

Honey kheer is made from rice, milk, and honey. Offering honey kheer pleases Maa Rani apart from this, you can also offer jaggery to Maa Katyayan