Chaitra Navratri: Eighth Form – Maa Mahagauri

श्वेते वृषे समारूढ़ा श्वेताम्बर धारा शुचिः ।

महागौरी शुभम् दद्यान्महादेवप्रमोददा ।।

On the eighth day, Maa Mahagauri is worshipped with proper rituals. This day is also known as Maha Ashtami. Worshipping Mahagauri on this day removes financial difficulties and brings prosperity. Along with the worship of Maa Gauri, Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls) also holds great significance today.

The Form of Maa Mahagauri-

According to belief, Maa Mahagauri is adorned in white attire. Her ornaments are also of the same color. Hence, she is also known as Shwetambardhara. The goddess has four arms. Her vehicle is the bull (Vrishabh), and she is also depicted riding a lion.

Worship Method of Mahagauri-

On this day, one should first bathe and wear clean clothes. Then, install the idol of Maa Mahagauri on a wooden platform in the home temple. Light a ghee lamp before the goddess, and offer fruits and flowers. After performing the aarti of Maa, perform Kanya Pujan.

Mantras -

सर्व मंगल मांगल्ये, शिवे सर्वार्थ साधिके ।

शरण्‍ये त्र्यम्बके गौरी नारायणी नमोस्तुते ।।

महागौरी: श्रीं क्लीं ह्रीं वरदायै नम:।

Naivedya (Offering)-

नारिकेलमथाष्टम्याम् देव्यै नैवेद्यमर्पयेत ।

ब्राह्मणाय प्रदातव्म् तापहीनो भवेन्नरः ।।

On the day of Ashtami, coconut should be offered to Maa Bhagwati as Naivedya, and the same should also be given in donation. The one who does this becomes free from all kinds of sufferings.

In the Puranas, the glory of Maa Mahagauri has been highly praised. She guides human tendencies towards truth and removes untruth.