Amongst Devi Durga’s powerful avatars, Maa Kaalratri, the seventh form, stands out as a symbol of relentless strength and fearlessness. Her very presence is awe-inspiring, capable of sending shivers down one’s spine. Let’s explore the significance and mythology surrounding Maa Kaalratriduring Navratri.

Maa Kaalratri, also known as the “Death of Kaal,” embodies the concept of time, death, and the night. She is the ultimate destroyer of demon entities, ghosts, spirits, and negative energies, who flee in terror upon her arrival. In this form, she annihilated the formidable demons, Shumbha and Nishumbha, thus earning her reputation as the harbinger of divine justice.

The Legends of Devi Kaalratri

The legends of Maa Kaalratri’s valor intertwine with the tale of Shumbha and Nishumbha’s invasion of the gods’ abodes. In their quest for dominance, they provoked the gods, leading to a desperate plea for assistance. Indra turned to Lord Shiva, who, in turn, invoked Goddess Parvati while she was in meditation. In response, Parvati summoned her ferocious form, Chandi (Ambika), to aid the gods in their battle against the demons.

Chanda and Munda, the generals of Shumbha and Nishumbha, attempted to thwart the gods once more. Empowered by Parvati’s blessings, Chandi created the dark goddess Kali to eliminate these formidable adversaries. Kali swiftly dispatched Chanda and Munda, earning herself the title of Chamunda, the slayer of these demons.

The Peril of Raktabeej

However, the most challenging adversary remained – Raktabeej, who possessed a boon that allowed his spilled blood to create equally formidable clones. Kali (Kaalratri) relentlessly tried to destroy him, but his blood drops only multiplied the threat. In a fit of rage, she began consuming his blood to prevent any more clones from emerging. When Raktabeej’s commanders, Shumbha and Nishumbha, joined the battle, a fierce conflict ensued.

Kali’s Intervention

The gods, witnessing Kali’s uncontrollable fury, sought Lord Shiva’s intervention. Shiva, appearing before Kali, lay down under her feet. Startled by the realization that she was treading upon her beloved husband, Kali bit her tongue in embarrassment and ceased her rampage, eventually falling at Shiva’s feet.

The Divine Form of Maa Kaalratri

Maa Kaalratriis described as having the complexion of a dark night, with bountiful hair and a heavenly figure, adorned with a moon-like necklace. She possesses four hands, with the left two holding a cleaver and a torch, while the right two are in the mudras of “giving” and “protecting.” Her three eyes emit lightning-like rays, and flames emerge from her nostrils during inhalation and exhalation. She rides a donkey.

Blessings for Devotees

While Maa Kaalratri’s appearance may seem terrifying to evildoers, she bestows great blessings upon her devoted worshipers. Those who approach her with fearlessness find the darkness of worry dissipating from their lives. Her worship on the eighth day of Navratri holds immense importance for Yogis and Sadhakas, opening doors to various siddhis, powers, and practices in the universe.

Goddess Kalaratri Mantra & Puja Vidhi

To connect with the formidable energy of Maa Kaalratri, one can recite the following mantras with devotion:

Dhyan Mantra

Ya Devi Sarvabhutesu Kaalaratri Rupena Samsthita|

Namestasyai Namestasyai Namestasyai Namoh Namah ||

Maa Kaalratri Beej Mantra

ॐ क्रां क्रीं क्रौं सः श्री कालरात्रि महाकालीं मम गृहाण मम आरोग्यं देहि देहि च

(Om Kram Kreem Kraum Sah Shri Kaalratri Mahakalim Mama Grihaana Mama Aarogyam Dehi Dehi Cha)

This mantra can be chanted to invoke Maa Kaalratri’s blessings for good health and protection.

Maa Kaalratri Gayatri Mantra

ॐ अपगुज्जम्भायै विद्महे कालरात्र्यै धीमहि। तन्नो देवी प्रचोदयात्॥

(Om Apagujjambhāyai Vidmahe Kālarātryai Dhīmahi। Tanno Devī Prachodayāt॥)

Reciting this Gayatri mantra is a way to seek the wisdom and guidance of Maa Kaalratri.

Kaalratri Moola Mantra

ॐ क्लीं क्रीं क्लीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे।

(Om Kleem Kreem Kleem Chamundāyai Vichche)

This mantra is dedicated to Maa Kaalratri and can be chanted for her blessings and protection.

Puja Vidhi

• Begin the seventh night of Navratri by arranging a sacred puja space.
• Place a shallow clay utensil as the base, filling it with three layers of mud and Navadhanya (nine types of grains) seeds.
• Sprinkle a little water to provide moisture to the seeds.
• Position a Kalasha filled with Ganga jal, Supari, coins, Akshat (raw rice mixed with turmeric powder), and Durva grass on the base.
• Surround the Kalasha’s neck with five mango tree leaves, covering it with a coconut.

Why do we worship Kaalratri Devi?

Symbolism of the Donkey: 

Maa Kaalratri is often depicted riding a donkey. The donkey symbolizes humility and simplicity. It signifies that the divine power of Maa Kaalratri is accessible to all, regardless of their social status or material possessions. It reminds us that true strength lies in our inner qualities and devotion.

The Destruction of Ego: 

The battle against Shumbha, Nishumbha, and Raktabeej also symbolizes the inner spiritual struggle. Shumbha and Nishumbha represent the ego, while Raktabeej represents the tendencies of the mind to multiply thoughts and desires endlessly. Maa Kaalratri’s victory over these demons signifies the destruction of ego and the control of the wandering mind through spiritual practices.

Significance for Yogis and Sadhakas: 

The eighth day of Navratri, dedicated to Maa Kaalratri, holds profound significance for yogis and spiritual seekers. It is believed that on this day, the Sahasrara Chakra (the crown chakra) is particularly receptive to spiritual energy. Many yogis and sadhakas intensify their meditation and spiritual practices on this day to attain higher states of consciousness and divine knowledge.

Protection from Negative Energies: 

Devotees believe that worshipping Maa Kaalratri offers protection from negative energies, psychic attacks, and malevolent forces. Her fierce form is a shield against all forms of darkness and negativity, making her a guardian and protector of her devotees.

Devotion and Fearlessness: 

Maa Kaalratri’s worship teaches us the importance of facing life’s challenges with fearlessness and unwavering devotion. Just as she tamed her own fury upon realizing the presence of Lord Shiva beneath her feet, we are reminded to control our emotions and ego in the pursuit of spirituality.

Offerings and Prasad: 

Devotees often offer sesame seeds, jaggery, black grams, and other items associated with the color black as offerings to Maa Kaalratri. These offerings symbolize humility and the surrender of the ego.

Navchandi Maha Puja at Rudralife

Navchandi Maha Puja is a special nine-day celebration organized during Navratri, with precise timings guided by the auspicious Muhurat.

Our dedicated team of two pandits, under the planetary influence of Ketu, will lead you through this divine journey. Navratri, an ode to the nine forms of Adi Shakti Devi Durga, embodies profound spiritual significance. This festival, following the lunar calendar, signifies the arrival of both spring and autumn.

Each day, we pay homage to one of Devi Durga’s incarnations, commencing with Devi Shailputri and concluding in grandeur on the tenth day. These rituals, prayers, and introspection encourage new beginnings and spiritual purification.

As a special note, we recommend wearing Rudraksha beads, particularly the 9 Mukhi Rudraksha, believed to carry Devi Durga’s blessings. Wear or gift these beads during Navratri for spiritual elevation.

Our comprehensive Puja includes various rituals, such as Abhishek, Mantra Japa, Homam, and Aarti, to seek the blessings of Devi Durga and invoke her divine grace for prosperity and spiritual growth.

To watch this year’s LIVE Devi Kaalratri Puja, click here.

If you wish to organize a Sankalp Puja for yourself or participate in the upcoming Pujas, message us via WhatsApp on +91-72088 19922.