The ninth and final day of Navratri is dedicated to Mata Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Goddess Durga. Her name means "the giver (datri) of siddhis (powers and perfections)". The day is also Maha Navami, when many families perform havan and Kanya Pujan.
Her Form
Siddhidatri is depicted seated on a lotus, with four arms. In her hands she holds the chakra (discus), gada (mace), shankha (conch) and a lotus. She is serene, benevolent and radiant. In some depictions she also rides a lion.
The Eight Siddhis
According to the tradition recorded in the Markandeya Purana, the eight classical siddhis are:
- Anima: becoming minutely small
- Mahima: becoming vast
- Garima: becoming heavy
- Laghima: becoming weightless
- Prapti: the power to obtain anything
- Prakamya: irresistible will
- Ishitva: lordship over creation
- Vashitva: the power to command
Traditionally these are not seen as show of power but as signs of complete mastery over oneself, achieved through deep spiritual practice.
The Legend
Devi Purana tells that Lord Shiva worshipped the Goddess and gained all the siddhis by her grace. It is said that, through this blessing, half of Shiva's body became that of the Goddess, and he became known as Ardhanarishvara. Siddhidatri is therefore revered as the one who grants fulfilment to gods, sages, gandharvas and devotees alike.
Mantra and Prayer
A simple mantra is "Om Devi Siddhidatryai Namah". A traditional prayer verse for the day is:
सिद्धगन्धर्वयक्षाद्यैरसुरैरमरैरपि। सेव्यमाना सदा भूयात् सिद्धिदा सिद्धिदायिनी॥
It prays that Siddhidatri, who is served by siddhas, gandharvas, yakshas, asuras and devas, may always grant perfection.
Bhog and Worship
- Bhog: halwa, puri, black gram (chana), kheer and sesame are traditionally offered.
- Flowers and offerings: lotus or white flowers, fruit and coconut.
- Havan: many families perform a havan to conclude the nine days.
- Kanya Pujan: young girls, representing the Goddess, are invited, their feet are washed, and they are fed puri, halwa and chana, and given gifts.
Astrological Association
In popular astrology, Siddhidatri is linked with the planet Ketu, and devotees pray to her for relief from Ketu-related difficulties, spiritual clarity and detachment. This is a traditional belief and not a scriptural rule; for any chart-based concern, please consult an astrologer.
The colour of the day, the bhog offered and the planet associated with each form of the Goddess differ between regions, families and printed calendars, and from year to year. Follow your own family or temple tradition. Planet associations are popular astrological beliefs and not scriptural rules.
Significance
Siddhidatri's day is one of completion. After nine nights of devotion, discipline and reflection, the final blessing is perfection, not of power over others but of mastery over oneself. Continue with Dussehra for what follows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bhog for Mata Siddhidatri?
Halwa, puri, chana, kheer and sesame are traditionally offered, though customs vary.
What is Kanya Pujan?
It is the worship of young girls as living forms of the Goddess, usually on Ashtami or Navami, with a meal and gifts.
Which planet is associated with Siddhidatri?
Popular astrology links her with Ketu. This is a traditional belief, not a scriptural rule.
Read Next
- Navratri Day 8 – Maa Mahagauri
- Navratri Day 6 – Maa Katyayani
- Navratri – Maa Kalratri
- Dussehra Date, Muhurat, Puja Vidhi and Significance
Resources and references. Traditional sources: Devi Mahatmya (Durga Saptashati), Markandeya Purana | Traditional sources: Devi Purana, Navratri tradition
Disclaimer. This article is shared for general knowledge and cultural interest. It draws on traditional beliefs, scriptural tradition and published panchang sources, and is not scientific, medical, legal, financial or professional advice. Astrology, Vastu, omens and religious observances are belief-based and offer no guarantee of any outcome. Dates, tithi and muhurat timings differ by city and by panchang, and the figures given here may change or contain errors, so please confirm them with your local panchang or family priest before you act. Fasting and dietary practices must suit your health; consult a doctor first if you are unwell, pregnant, elderly or on medication. Sansthaan and its writers accept no responsibility or liability for any decision, loss or consequence arising from the use of this content.
Sansthaan Team
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