According to Devi Bhagvata Purana and Devi Mahatayam, the ‘NAV DURGA’ are the nine manifestations of Goddess Parvati. They originate from her life story, and each of the nine forms represents a different aspect of her divine form.

The question arises of why the nine manifestations are called ‘NAV DURGA’ when they are different aspects of Devi Parvati.

Both Goddess Durga and Parvati are the manifestations of Adi Shakti but symbolize two different unique aspects.

“Durga” in Sanskrit means the ‘incomprehensible one’ or the ‘one difficult to reach.’ She represents the infinite power of the cosmos and is a fierce warrior. Goddess Durga manifests from her formless essence (Nirguna Swarup) to slay the demons and restore the cosmic balance.

Goddess Durga

Parvati is the gentle aspect of Adi Shakti, the loving devoted consort of Lord Shiva. She embodies the qualities; of love, fertility, devotion, and family. Devi Parvati is the reincarnation of Devi Sati, who relinquished her body after her father Daksha insulted Lord Shiva. Devi Parvati’s love and devotion brought Lord Shiva back from his ascetic life, as she became his eternal companion. She is an ideal wife and a caring, nurturing mother of Kartikeya, Ashoksundari, and Ganesha. 

Goddess Parvati with family

Goddess Durga and Parvati are two distinct forms of Adi Shakti but according to Shakta Puranas, Devi Parvati manifests herself as Durga whenever her loved ones and children feel threatened. Devi Parvati, the ever-loving benevolent Goddess transforms into a fierce protector, the warrior Durga during times of danger. 

This duality, this transformation emphasizes that the divine energy of Adi Shakti is not static, instead it adapts, evolves, and responds to restore the cosmic balance. 

The Nav Durga 

The nine manifestations of Goddess Parvati can be seen as a progression of her power, with each form representing a different aspect of her divine nature. It can also be known as a different stage of her life. 

Shailputri

Goddess Shailputri

“Shailaputri” means the daughter of the mountain. After, the self-immolation as Goddess Sati, Adi Shakti took birth as the daughter of King Himavat and was named Parvati. She embodies the power of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and is also known as Hemavati.

Goddess Shailputri is worshipped on the first day of Navratri. It is believed that the Moon, the provider of all fortunes, is governed by Goddess Shailputri and the negative effect of the Moon can be overcome by worshipping this form of Adi Shakti.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः॥

Om Devī Shailaputryai Namah॥

Worshipping Goddess Shailputri gives mental peace, perseverance, and a sense of devotion. With her blessings, devotees are empowered to overcome all kinds of difficulties in life. 

Bramhacharini

Goddess Brahmacharini

According to the Devi Bhagvata Purana, maiden Parvati resolves to marry Shiva. She begins to live in the mountains and performs severe penance for 5000 years eating only belpatra. it is this aspect of Parvati that is deemed to be that of the goddess Brahmacharini. Her ascetic pursuit draws the attention of Lord Shiva and awakens his interest.

During this time, a demon named Prakandasura attacks Parvati who is at the last stage of her penance and cannot defend herself. Goddess Laxmi and Saraswati intervene and try to defend Parvati but they get outnumbered. After many days of fighting, the kamandalu beside Parvati falls and all the demons are washed away in a flood, burning them to ashes.

Everyone in the universe is impressed by the penance performed by Devi Parvati, except Mahadeva who visits Paravati in disguise as Bhramachari. He then questions and tests Devi Parvati and proposes to her. Parvati realizes he is Shiva and accepts. Shiva appears in his true form and finally accepts her as his wife.

Goddess Brahmacharini is worshipped on the second day of Navratri and it is believed that Lord Mangal, the provider of all fortunes, is governed by Goddess Brahmacharini.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी ब्रह्मचारिण्यै नम: II

Oṃ Devī Brahmacāriṇyai Namaḥ II

Worshipping Goddess Brahmacharini instills courage, perseverance, and inner strength. She is the deity of discipline and self-control, guiding us toward determination and dedication towards our goals.

Chandraghanta

Goddess Chandrghanta

Chandraghanta is the third manifestation of Goddess Parvati. Her name Chandra-Ghanta, means "one who has a half-moon shaped like a bell". She is also known as Chandrakhanda, Vrikahvahini, or Chandrika.

After marriage, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were leading a happy married life at Kailash and Tarkasura took over the heaven. He had a boon as he would be only killed by the biological son of Shiva and Parvati. He assigned one demon named Jatukasura to attack Parvati. Suddenly, one day Jatukasur called a war and marched towards Kailasa and covered the sky with the help of the wings of his bat army. Shiva was unable to leave his tapas, so he reminded Parvati about her inner power and that she was sufficient to fight and control this situation. Thus, Devi Parvati decided to fight the Jatakasur. Parvati went out in the darkness and could hardly see, so she wore Chandradev as a crescent on her head during the battle. A huge pack of wolves came to Parvati's aid. Devi Parvati brought a ghanta to the battlefield and rang it loudly, and the bats flew away. One of the wolves jumped on the Jatukasura, then Devi Parvati hit his head with the ghanta, cut off his wings with a sword, and killed him.

This fearsome form of Parvati, with the knife in one hand and Ghanta in the other; Moon on the forehead, and sitting on a wolf is named Chandraghanta by Brahmadev.

Goddess Chandraghanta is worshipped on the third day of Navratri and it is believed that the planet Shukra is governed by her.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः॥

Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah॥

Those who worship Goddess Chandraghanta are blessed with courage, strength, and fearlessness. 

Kushmanda

Goddess Kushmanda

Kushmanda is the fourth aspect of Goddess Parvati.

Once two asuras named Mali and Sumali were performing a severe penance to seek blessings from Lord Shiva, the energy generated from their body due to penance attracted Lord Surya and he came down to earth to have a look at them. This damaged the entire universe and as Lord Surya went near to Mali and Sumali, they burned to ashes. This made Lord Shiva angry and he incapacitated him with his trident. As a result, the entire world and solar system went into darkness, there was loss of Gravity, and the celestial bodies faced imbalance. Sage Kashyapa, father of Gods broke down after seeing Suryadev lying unconscious. Rishi Kashyap cursed Shiva as he killed his son; one day he will also kill his son. Shiva went to Parvati for help and made her realize that she was the complete incarnation of Adi Shakti, the source of all energies. Devi Parvati went to the place in the universe where Suryadev was placed. She created a spherical body of fire and light with her fierceness, which became the sun in the solar system.

Lord Shiva asked both Sukesh (father of Mali and Sumali) and Sage Kashyap to visit Devi Parvati for their sons. Sage Kashyap with his wife Devi Aditi begged Devi Parvati to bring Suryadev to life. Devi Parvati went into the kitchen and brought two pots. Devi Parvati asked them both to fill one pot with their blood. Sage Kashyap with his power filled the pot with blood from both their bodies. The other Pot then automatically got filled with Amrit. Goddess Parvati asked Sage Kashyap to pour the pious blood and Amrit into Suryadev's mouth. Sukesh and his wife Devavati also begged Devi Parvati with the ashes of Mali and Sumali. Devi Parvati gifted Devavati an Egg in her womb, the children born from the egg were demons due to the nature of parents.

This is how Goddess Parvati was called Kushmanda.  Her name means: Ku means "a little", Ushma means "warmth" or "energy" and Anda means "cosmic egg".

On returning to life, Lord Surya requested Devi Kushamanda to take place in the Suryasan in Suryalok.

The sun gives life to the world and Goddess Kushmanda herself is the power of the sun and is the source of all energy as she resides within the core of the Suryaloka. It was to create a balance in the universe and provide life to all living beings from the sun's rays, her power gives the sun its capability to give life to everyone, as she is a form of Adi Shakti herself. Goddess Kushmanda’s luminosity gives heat and brightness to the sun and directions to Lord Surya.

Goddess Kushmanda is worshipped on the fourth day of Navratri.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी कूष्माण्डायै नमः॥

Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah॥

Worshipping Goddess Kushmanda brings health, prosperity, and strength and fills the devotee’s life with vibrancy.

Skandmata

Goddess Skandmata

Skandamata is the Goddess of motherhood and children. She is the fifth aspect of Devi Parvati. Her name means mother of Skanda, also known as Kartikeya.

Lord Kartikeya was born from the tapas shakti of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Kartikeya was trained and guided by Devi Parvati to become a great warrior. She gifted him a special weapon, a divine spear called the "Vel" (or "Shakti") symbolizing power, valor, and righteousness.

Goddess Skandamata is worshipped on the fifth day of Navratri and planet Budha is governed by her.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः॥

Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah॥

Worshipping Goddess Skandamata brings peace, prosperity, and the blessings of children.

 

Katyayani 

Goddess Katyayani

To slay the demon Mahishasura, Goddess Parvati took the form of Goddess Katyayani.

Goddess Katyayani emerged from the combined energies of all the Devtas when they failed to defeat the buffalo demon Mahishasura and prayed to Adi Shakti to help them. Their unified energy manifested itself in the form of a woman. The rays crystallized in the hermitage of sage Katayayan, who gave it a proper form, therefore, she is also called Katyayani or "daughter of Katyayana".

Goddess Katyayani is the slayer of the tyrannical buffalo demon Mahishasura, hence called mahishasurmardini or mahish-mardini. She is worshipped on the sixth day of Navratri and governs the planet Brihaspati.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी कात्यायन्यै नमः॥

Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah॥

Worshipping Goddess Katyayani leads to the destruction of enemies, the removal of obstacles, and the attainment of victory.

 

Kaalratri

Goddess Kaalratri

 Kalaratri is one of the fearsome forms of the Goddess Parvati, her appearance itself invoking fear.

According to the Devi Bhagvata Purana, two demons named Shumbha and Nishumbha, invaded devaloka and defeated the Devtas. Indra with the other Devtas went to the Himalayas, they prayed to Goddess Parvati while she came near the lake Mansarovar for a bath. As soon as she heard the prayers and distress of all the Devtas a Goddess emerged from her body, she was called Chandi or Kaushiki as she was immensely fair in skin and carried all the celestial weapons. After the emergence of Kaushiki, Devi Parvati’s body turned pale black and looked fearsome with big red eyes and open black hair like a thunderstorm, she was called Kaalratri or Kali. Both Kaushiki and Kali marched towards the war and defeated the demons.

Chanda and Munda were two demon generals sent by Shumbha and Nishumbha. When they came to battle Devi Chandi, Kalaratri killed them and was called Chamunda.

Kaalratri is the power of the darkest of nights. She is the time of the night or the death of the night. She is called Maharatri, the great night of periodic dissolution, and Moharatri, the night of delusion. At the end of time, when destruction arrives, Adi Shakti transforms herself into Kalaratri, who devours all time without leaving any remains.

Goddess Kaalratri is worshipped on the seventh day of the Navratri and governs the planet, Shani.

Mantra:

 ॐ देवी कालरात्र्यै नमः॥

Om Devi Kalaratryai Namah॥

Goddess Kalaratri removes all fears and negative energies from life. She blesses her devotees with courage and fearlessness, driving away all calamities.

Mahagauri 

Goddess Mahagauri

Mahagauri is the eighth manifestation of Goddess Parvati and has a beautiful golden complexion.

After doing a severe penance of 5000 years to please Lord Shiva for marriage, Goddess Parvati’s body became weak and wrinkled as she lost her youthful bright skin. Pleased by Devi Parvati’s penance and after accepting her as his wife, Lord Shiva poured Ganga water from his matted locks of hair on Goddess Parvati. As the pure and sacred water cascaded on the body of Goddess Parvati, she regained her youthful radiance, a luminous aura like a thousand moons earning her the name Mahagauri, the Goddess of resplendent milky white complexion (Gaur-varna).

Goddess Mahagauri is worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri and governs Rahu.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी महागौर्यै नमः॥

Om Devi Mahagauryai Namah॥

Goddess Mahagauri blesses her devotees with purity, peace, and good fortune. She eliminates negativity and bestows serenity and prosperity.

Siddhidatri

Goddess Siddhidatri

Siddhidhatri or Siddhidatri is the ninth and final manifestation of Goddess Parvati. Her name means: Siddhi means supernatural power or meditative ability, and Dhatri means giver or bestower.

Siddhidatri is the divine primordial energy, which is omnipresent, and omniscient. The Supreme Goddess gave birth to Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and explained their duties to them. The Tridevas performed penances for many years. The pleased Goddess appeared before them in the form of Siddhidatri and blessed them with Shaktis in the form of their wives; Saraswati for Brahma, Laxmi for Vishnu, and her divine form Parvati for Lord Shiva.

Goddess Siddhidatri was pleased by Lord Shiva and blessed him with eight supernatural powers (siddhis); Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakambya, Ishitva, and Vashitva. This led to the origin of the Ardhanarishvara form of Lord Shiva which symbolizes the divine union of both masculine and feminine energies, one half of Lord Shiva’s body and the other half of Maa Siddhidatri are unified.

Goddess Siddhidatri is worshipped on the ninth day of Navratri and governs Ketu.

Mantra:

ॐ देवी सिद्धिदात्र्यै नमः॥

Om Devi Siddhidatryai Namah॥

By worshipping Goddess Siddhidatri, we gain knowledge to lead a life of attainment of both spiritual and material success. The Goddess blesses her devotees with achievement and accomplishment in life.  

 

The nine days of Navratri are celebrated throughout the Indian cultural and religious sphere. 

The worship of the nine forms of Navdurga during Navratri is a way to instill great values and principles in our lives. Each form of Goddess Durga carries a unique message that guides us on how to lead our lives. During Navratri worship, we spiritually grow and gain strength, courage, purity, peace, and success in our endeavors. Navratri inspires us to embrace righteousness and follow the path of truth to reach our ultimate goals.

The Siddha Kunjika stotram

 The Siddha Kunjika Stotram is the decoded form of the universe's birth and life's existence. It is the key formula for the universe's birth and sustainability mentioned in the Markandeya Purana, also known as the Sri Durga Saptashati.

Siddha means “the perfect one” and Kunjika means “something that is hidden and overgrown inside,” narrated by Lord Shiva to Adishakti’s Purna Swarup Devi Parvati on her request to reveal the secret of the origin and operation of the universe.

Lord Shiva took Devi Parvati to a secret location in Mount Kailash, and said, “Devi! It is you from whom this universe originated, your aspects that operate and sustain it, and by your will when the time comes, you perish the universe.”

Devi Parvati was surprised as she could not remember her primordial form- Adi Para Shakti who is beyond everything, only she exists before and after the universe perishes. Adi Shakti is also called Amba, the mother of the Tridev’s; Brahma (time), Mahavishnu (space), and Shiva (matter).

 Looking at Devi Parvati's astonishment and curiosity, Lord Shiva smiled and started reciting the secret code of the universe, which he called the Siddha Kunjika Stotram.

Lord Shiva said –

 शृणु देवि प्रवक्ष्यामि, कुञ्जिकास्तोत्रमुत्तमम्। येन मन्त्रप्रभावेण चण्डीजापः शुभो भवेत॥1॥

 Meaning- Listen carefully Devi to the greatness of Kunjika Stotram, its results are highly auspicious, whenever and whoever recites this “Chandi” prayer will always be blessed with a great fortune.

न कवचं नार्गलास्तोत्रं कीलकं न रहस्यकम्। न सूक्तं नापि ध्यानं च न न्यासो न च वार्चनम्॥2॥

Meaning- There is no need to recite the preliminary Stotras, Kacham, Argalam, Kilakam and the Rahsaya, not also secrets, for this no specific method of meditation and convention is necessary.

कुञ्जिकापाठमात्रेण दुर्गापाठफलं लभेत्।अति गुह्यतरं देवि देवानामपि दुर्लभम्॥3॥

Meaning- Reciting Kunjika Stotram is enough to get the benefit of reading the complete Shri Durga Saptashati. It is the most secret, this mantra is rare and even don’t comprehend by the deities.

 गोपनीयं प्रयत्नेन स्वयोनिरिव पार्वति।मारणं मोहनं वश्यं स्तम्भनोच्चाटनादिकम्।
पाठमात्रेण संसिद्ध्येत् कुञ्जिकास्तोत्रमुत्तमम्॥4॥

Lord Shiva requests Devi Parvati,” try to keep this most secret code with you in the same way as keep your genitalia secret (स्वयोनिरिव), killing (मारणं), illusion (मोहनं), slavery (वश्यं) and paralysis by repeated chants and sending away (स्तम्भनोच्चाटनादिकम्).

He further emphasizes that just by reciting this secret code anything is achieved.

॥ अथ मन्त्रः ॥
ॐ ऐं ह्रीं क्लींचामुण्डायै विच्चे॥
ॐ ग्लौं हुं क्लीं जूं सः ज्वालयज्वालय ज्वल ज्वल प्रज्वल प्रज्वल
ऐं ह्रीं क्लीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे ज्वलहं सं लं क्षं फट् स्वाहा॥

Meaning- AUM is the primordial sound of ‘Param Bhram’, AIM is singularity, HREEM is the energy of the protection, KLEEM is the energy that arouses the desire of reproduction, CHAMUNDAY is which destroys evils, VICCHEY means to bless and fulfil the wishes.

AIM (singularity) transforms herself in HREEM (the form of energy associated with space and prosperity) and KLEEM is the energy responsible for the process of desire, and reproduction for the continuity of life.

 ॥ इति मन्त्रः ॥
नमस्ते रूद्ररूपिण्यै नमस्ते मधुमर्दिनि।
नमः कैटभहारिण्यै नमस्ते महिषार्दिनि॥1॥

Meaning- Salutations to the energy in the form of anger or ablaze associated with the matter. Salutations to the killer of Madhu, Salutations to the winner over Kaitabha, Salutations to the killer of Mahisha.

नमस्ते शुम्भहन्त्र्यै च निशुम्भासुरघातिनि।
जाग्रतं हि महादेवि जपं सिद्धं कुरूष्व मे॥2॥

Meaning- Salutations to the slayer of demon Shumbha and the killer of Nishumbha. Oh, Great Goddess of divinity bless me with the expertise of chanting your praise.

 ऐंकारी सृष्टिरूपायै ह्रींकारी प्रतिपालिका।
क्लींकारी कामरूपिण्यै बीजरूपे नमोऽस्तु ते॥3॥

Meaning- Aimkari is the originator of the universe in the form of singularity, Hreemkari in the form of protector and the one who nourishes the universe. Kleemkari is the energy that causes a desire, the seed of reproduction to maintain the continuity of life, and salutations to the divine forms.

चामुण्डा चण्डघाती च यैकारी वरदायिनी।
विच्चे चाभयदा नित्यं नमस्ते मन्त्ररूपिणि॥4॥

Meaning- Chamunda Chandghathi is the energy that destroys and ruins demons like Chanda and Munda. Yakari is the one who provides boons and blesses everyone, granting protection from evils. Salutations to her in the form of codes. 

धां धीं धूं धूर्जटेः पत्नी वां वीं वूं वागधीश्वरी।
क्रां क्रीं क्रूं कालिका देवि शां शीं शूं मे शुभं कुरु॥5॥

Meaning- DHAM, DHEEM, DHOOM, AND DHURJATHE are the energies, and consort of matter (Rudra and Dhurjathas).

धूं is the Dhoomavati devi’s beej mantra, in her ablaze form engulfs the whole cosmos, within her as whole matter in the form of Rudra.

VAAM, VEEM VOOM is the goddess of speech and Vaghdeeshwari is the one who rides a lion in her manifested form, the energy of transformation.

KRAM, KREEM, KROOM is Devi Kali, the dark energy present extensively across the cosmos. These are the beej mantras of Devi Kali in her different aspects, which govern the various phases of the ever-expanding universe.

SHAAM, SHEEM, SHOOM is Devi fulfilling the wishes of her devotees with Rudra (Mahadev). 

हुं हुं हुंकाररूपिण्यै जं जं जं जम्भनादिनी।
भ्रां भ्रीं भ्रूं भैरवी भद्रे भवान्यै ते नमो नमः॥6॥

Meaning- HOOM HOOM HOOMKAR is the terrible sound made by the Adi Shakti to destroy evil (the unrequired constituents of the universe).

JAM JAM JAM JAMVADINI is the naad (sound) made by the Adi Shakti to produce auspicious elements. 

BHRAAM is Devi Parvati (Bhramhari avatar) BHREEM, BHROOM, BHAIRAVI, and BHADRE are the various aspects of cosmic energy responsible for decay and illusion. These are also the names of Mahamaya.

  अं कं चं टं तं पं यं शं वीं दुं ऐं वीं हं क्षं।
धिजाग्रं धिजाग्रं त्रोटय त्रोटय दीप्तं कुरु कुरु स्वाहा॥7॥

Meaning- AAM, KAM, THAM, TAM, PAM, YAM, SHAM, VEEM, DHOOM, AIM, VEEM, HAM, KSHAM are the beej mantras in which suffix (M) is the sound. These beej mantras are the various forms of energy transformed by Adi Shakti to keep the cosmic order. Every specific sound of the beej mantra will specifically take the form of cosmic energy and enlighten it. Adi Shakti is the primordial power from which the universe was manifested and she holds all forms of energies which get transformed into various aspects as required. 

पां पीं पूं पार्वती पूर्णा खां खीं खूं खेचरी तथा।
सां सीं सूं सप्तशती देव्या मन्त्रसिद्धिं कुरुष्व मे॥8॥

Lord Shiva says, “Hey Devi Parvati, you are the daughter of the mountain and absolute and complete in the aspect of PAAM, PEEM, POOM. You have all the potential energy associated with restoring forces such as the force of gravity. And you can transform to various forms of kinetic energy associated with all animate and inanimate objects.

KHAM, KHEEM, KHOOM you are always flying higher than the sky.

SAAM, SEEM, SOOM are the Saptashati beej mantra-giving mantras having mantra siddhis which is an ability to make a mantra efficacious and to gain desired benefits. 

इदं तु कुञ्जिकास्तोत्रं मन्त्रजागर्तिहेतवे।
अभक्ते नैव दातव्यंगोपितं रक्ष पार्वति॥

Lord Shiva says, “Here is your glory encoded in the secret code of Kunjika Stotram which can fulfill all the desires of the devotees but Oh Parvati, you must keep it a secret.”

 यस्तु कुञ्जिकाया देवि हीनां सप्तशतीं पठेत्।
न तस्य जायते सिद्धिररण्ये रोदनं यथा

Those who read Shri Durga Saptashati without Kunjika Stotram would never achieve desired results, or get benefits. Their prayers and pooja will remain incomplete. 

॥ इति श्रीरुद्रयामले गौरीतन्त्रे शिवपार्वतीसंवादे कुञ्जिकास्तोत्रं सम्पूर्णम् ॥
॥ ॐ तत्सत् ॥

Thus, an end to the Kunjika Stotram, the secret discussion between Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati, occurring in Gauri tantra and the Sri Rudra Yamala.

The Kunjika Stotram is the phenomenon of more secrets of cosmic energy embedded as told by Lord Shiva to Devi Parvati.

The primordial energy Adi Parashakti transforms herself in various forms of energies, a scientific proof traced by modern scientists as the law of thermodynamics- ‘energy can neither be created, nor be destroyed, but it can be transformed from one form to another.’ 

The significance of reciting Siddha Kunjika Stotram

The Kunjika Stotram is composed of precise phonetics that create powerful vibrations when chanted correctly. These vibrations are believed to resonate with cosmic energies, enhancing the spiritual impact inside and around us. Goddess Durga forms a divine shield of protection against negative energies, and harmful influences, removes obstacles from their path, and blesses them with positivity, bringing prosperity and harmony in life. Proper recitation of the beej mantras are specially designed phonetics that help calm and purify the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote inner peace and balance. 

Goddess Durga

Radha, the beloved of Krishna

 Goddess Radha is the presiding deity of ‘prema and praana’ (love and life). She is ‘nirguna’ (transcends the three gunas), ‘nirlipta’ (transcends worldly joys), and is the soul (aatma swarupini) of Lord Krishna.

“Ra” and “Dha” mean one who creates, one who preserves, and one in whom creation merges. Devi Radha is the most beautiful “purna Swarup” of Adishakti or Devi Prakriti.

According to the Narad Pancharatra, Goddess Radha is the supreme personality, beyond whom there is no other. She is the primordial nature from whom everything came into being.

Sage Ved Vyas explained the meaning of ‘Radha’ in the Brahma Vaivarta Puran-

“radhnoti sakalm kaman tasmat radheti kirtitah”

Meaning- the one who fulfils the desires of any individual who sheds a few tears is Radha.

Sage Narad praises Goddess Radha in the Patal-khanda of Sri Padma-Puran –

“O Devi, you are the source of all that is pure and good. You are the source of the hladini, sandhini, and samvit potencies, and You are the Supreme Power and Supreme Knowledge. You give supreme bliss to Sri Bhagavan, and even Brahma and Rudra (Shiva) cannot understand You. Your opulence is remarkable in every aspect. The best of yogis cannot reach You with their meditation. I feel all the divine shaktis are Your parts as You control various shaktis such as ichcha-shakti (will power), gyan-shakti (the power of knowledge), and kriya-shakti (the power of action). Swayam Bhagavân Sri Krishna, who is the Supreme Personality, has countless majesty and They are also Your parts.”

Goddess Radha birth story

Sridama’s Curse

According to ancient scriptures, once a great devotee of Lord Krishna named Sridama visited ‘goloka’ (abode of Radha Krishna). He saw Sri Krishna seated next to Devi Radha lovingly, and all gopis were worshipping them by chanting the name Radha before Sri Krishna. Sridama brought gifts for his Lord, but Sri Krishna offered them to Devi Radha. Sridama ignored Devi Radha and worshipped only Sri Krishna. During a playful pastime, Devi Radha scolded Sri Krishna, and Sridama thought that she was disrespecting Sri Krishna. Sridama lost his anger, he cursed Devi Radha that she would forget Sri Krishna for a hundred years and be born on earth. Goddess Radha accepted the curse because of Sridama’s true devotion towards Sri Krishna.

Devi Prakriti incarnates as Radha

According to Padma Puran and Garg Samhita, King Vrishbhanu of Barsana had no children, and they always wished for a baby girl. Vrishbhanu and his wife Kirtida prayed daily, but years passed, and they slowly started losing hope.

One day, King Vrishbhanu went to the shores of the River Yamuna and found an effulgent lotus floating in the water. On checking the flower closely, he found a beautiful baby girl hidden within the petals. Vrishbhanu was overjoyed to see the child, she was as bright as a thousand suns emanating from her. He took her home to his wife Kirtida and accepted her as their daughter, calling her Radha.

Soon, the delighted couple noticed that Radha was not opening her eyes; they feared their daughter might be blind. At that moment, Sage Narad appeared and advised them to hold a lavish celebration on the arrival of their daughter and invite all residents of Barsana and neighbouring villages, including Kind Nanda of Gokul.

On the day of the celebration, Kirtida placed Radha in a gem-studded cradle. Everyone was mesmerized by Radha’s beauty. Vrishbhanu welcomed all guests, including his dear friend Nana, who came with his wife Yashoda and son Krishna, Rohini (Vasudev’s wife), and their son Balrama.

While everyone was busy with the celebration, little Krishna crawled to the gem-studded cradle, held it, and stood up. And look inside the cot. His eyes fell upon Radha; he gently touched her hand. Radha immediately recognized the touch and opened her eyes for the first time and directly gazed at Krishna, the first person she had ever seen. Both were looking at each other and smiling as if they were communicating and expressing their love. King Vrishbhanu and Kirtida were overjoyed to find out that their daughter was not blind. 

Radha and Krishna grew up in Vrindavan, and their bond deepened into a profound, unconditional, and everlasting love. Whenever Krishna played his flute, the whole of Vrindavan would come to a standstill. The gopis would leave their work and dance around him in his love, but Krishna’s heart was captivated by Radha. The whole universe yearned for Krishna, but he always yearned for Radha.

 

Radha Krishna Marriage

According to Garg Samhita and the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, one day, Nand baba (Krishna’s father) took Krishna to Bhandirvan to graze the cows. Suddenly, lightning and thunder flashed through dark clouds, and soon, a heavy downpour ensued. Nand baba was worried about Krishna’s safety. Then, out of nowhere, Radha appeared, and the rain stopped. Nand baba asked Radha and Krishna to return home soon after grazing the cows, as he had to leave for some other work. Radha was happy to be with Krishna when suddenly a palace appeared in front of her, and Krishna became a handsome young man wearing jewelry and a crown decorated with peacock feathers. Krishna praised Radha and acknowledged his deep love for her. At that moment, Lord Brahma appeared and requested them to get married, and he may be the priest. Radha Krishna agreed, and Lord Brahma performed the wedding ceremony by chanting Vedic mantras in front of the holy fire. Radha Krishna exchanged lotus garlands, and their wedding ceremony was called ‘gandharva vivah.” 

Radha Krishna's marriage was kept secret to give more importance to “parakaya rasa” (love without any social foundation). Around ten million associates of Radha Krishna participated in the marriage, which included Devtas, sakhis (friends), peacocks, parrots, cows, monkeys, squirrels, and other animal friends.

Radha Krishna’s divine wedding is celebrated annually on “Phoolera Dooj”, which falls between February and March. There is a temple dedicated to their marriage in Bhandirvan village in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh. 

According to Garg Samhita, 

After Krishna left Vrindavan for Mathura, Radha was heartbroken and devastated, but on Krishna’s request never shed a tear. She stopped wearing ornaments and decorating herself with flowers. Her friends tried to cheer her up, but Krishna’s departure deeply depressed her. One day before sunrise, Radha left for Kadli forest, silently leaving her illusionary form (Chhaya) in Vrindavan.

Radha’s family, believing Chhaya Radha to be real, got her married to Ayan. Ayan was an avatar of ‘Dharmadev,’ an ‘ansh avatar’ (partial form) of Lord Narayan.

Radha’s death

In the last stages of her life, Radha visited Krishna in Dwarka. She saw that Krishna had many wives and was always surrounded by them and was leading a great, prosperous life. Radha requested Krishna to allow her to work in his palace as a maid so she could have a daily glimpse of him. Krishna permitted it, and Radha became a maid, working tirelessly to stay near Krishna. Nobody came to know about her real identity. However, Radha soon realized that physical nearness was nothing compared to her spiritual closeness to Krishna. She left the palace without informing anyone, but Krishna knew and followed her to a forest, and both spent some time there. In the last moments of her life, when she was about to leave her body, Krishna wanted to grant Radha a final departing wish. Radha asked Krishna to play flute for her. Krishna played the most melodious tune he had ever played and dedicated it to Radha. Listening to the sweet melody, Radha divinely merged with Krishna. With this, Krishna decided that it was his final rendering of the flute, hence, he broke it and threw it in the bushes.

 According to Radhopanishad,

Radha and Krishna are one but have assumed two forms to perform loving pastimes. They have one intellect, one mind, one soul, and even one face. They have one knowledge. This is why there is no difference between these two.

Narad Pancharatra states:

Krishna’s half part is Radha, and Radha’s half part is Krishna. Krishna says, “I have assumed the form of Radha.” Radha says, “I have assumed the form of Krishna.”

According to the Garg Samhita,

Radha is the soul of Krishna. Krishna is the soul of all souls, yearned by every being, but He is constantly trying to serve his soul, Radha.

 Some people ask: If Radha and Krishna are one and the same, then why is Radha always mentioned before Krishna? Why do we always hear Radha-Krishna, never Krishna-Radha? Why is She so dear to Him that He says, “I see Radha everywhere: at home, in the forest when I go to graze cows, in the food I eat. I see Her at night; I see Her in the daytime. Radha pervades every pore of my being.”

 

 

Adishakti and her avatars

 According to the Devi Bhagvad Puran, once sage Narad asked Lord Narayana, “Who is ‘mula prakriti’? What are her characteristics and powers?”

Lord Narayan answered, “No one can fully describe the ‘mula prakriti’ and her characteristics. The prefix ‘pra’ is the sattva guna, meaning superior and beyond excellence, ‘kri’ is rajo guna, and ‘ti’ is tamas guna, which makes ‘kriti’ mean creation. Devi Prakriti or the Mahadevi is the ‘trigunmatrika’, the primal motive force, the basis of creation, the supreme being who brings about evolution, and change in the empirical universe.”

Adi Shakti or Devi Prakriti

Then Sage Narad requested Lord Narayana to explain the divine forms of Devi Prakriti.

Lord Narayana smiled and answered, ‘Devi Prakriti has infinite forms; all Gods and Goddesses are her expressions. But to bring the universe into existence and maintain its balance and continuity, she took ‘purna swarups’ (complete avatars) and ‘ansha swarups’ (partial avatars), and then there were devis born from her ‘kalaas’ (features). After the creation of the universe, Devi Prakriti took five divine forms: Durga, Laxmi, Saraswati, Savitri, and Radha. Together, these devis are called the ‘panch prakriti.’ Apart from these five Mahadevis, there are two complete manifestations of Devi Prakriti: Mahakali and Vasundhara.”

The Pancha Prakriti

Goddess Durga is the most splendid manifestation of Devi Prakriti. She is the invincible power, called ‘shakti swarupa’, containing within her the powers of all the Gods and Goddesses. She is the most auspicious one and beloved of Mahadeva. Devi Durga is the warrior Goddess, always on the front to protect the universe from evil and demonic forces. She is the ‘dharma,’ ‘satya,’ and ‘punya’ who is worshipped by the tridevas, sages, humans, and animals. She is the greatest refuge of those seeking protection from danger and evil.

Goddess Durga

Goddess Laxmi is Lord Vishnu’s Shakti. She is the embodiment of prosperity, charm, beauty, restraint, and superior nature. Mahalaxmi in swarga is called “swarga Laxmi’, in the castles of kings she is known as ‘Raaj Laxmi’ and in the house of a common man she is called ‘Grah Laxmi’. She is the presiding deity of wealth and prosperity, residing in all grains and vegetables and being the source of life for all beings. Devi Laxmi is the glory and fame of those who have done good and pious works and is the trade of merchants, the mercy of saints. She is one of the most benevolent manifestations of Devi Prakriti, who grants health, wealth, everlasting name, fame, bliss, and all auspicious things to her bhaktas. 

Goddess Laxmi

Goddess Saraswati is the third ‘purna swarup’ of Devi Prakriti. She is the Goddess of knowledge and embodies wisdom of the entire universe. Devi Saraswati is the river of consciousness that enlivens creation and dispels the darkness of ignorance. She resides as ‘medha’ (intelligence) in the hearts of all human beings and is the memory, great wit, light, splendour, and inventive genius. It is because of her grace that we can read and understand, as she removes all doubts and difficulties, and we can think, write, argue, judge, and perform various kinds of art like music. She is the measure, the time (taal) in music, and holds balance and union in vocal and instrumental music. Goddess Saraswati is the bestower of the fruits of the ascetism of the ascetics, the siddhi and vidya of all, always granting success to all her bhaktas.

Goddess Saraswati

Goddess Savitri is also known as Goddess Gayatri, the mother of the Vedas. She is the seed of all mantras, vedangas (limbs of the vedas), the chhandas, the vandanas, and the tantra. Herself an ascetic, she is the tapa power of the sages and embodies the auspiciousness and power of japam. Devi Gayatri resides in the ‘Brahma Loka,’ and all the sacred places of the pilgrimages want a touch of her lotus feet for their purification. Devi Savitri is the ‘shuddha sattva,’ the highest bliss, and is eternal and superior to all. She is the fourth avatar of Devi Prakriti and is the bestower of ‘moksha’ and spiritual knowledge.

Goddess Gayatri

Goddess Radha is the fifth ‘purna swarup’ of Devi Prakriti and is higher that the highest, the pure essence of all, infinitely superior, the eternal, and the highest bliss. Devi Radha is the presiding deity of ‘Prema and Praana’ (love and life). She is known by several names, like ‘Paraavara’, ‘Saarbhuta,’ ‘Paramaadya,’ ‘Parmaananda,’ ‘Rupa,’ ‘Dhanya,’ and ‘Pujya.’ The Rasa Mandalam originated from her, and she is the grace and the ornament of the Rasa Mandalam. Devi Radha is Nirguna (transcends the three gunas), Nirlipta (transcends worldly joys and attractions), Nirakaar (without any physical form), and ‘Aatma Swarupini’ of Lord Krishna. Her nature is one of the highest contentment and excessive joy. Goddess Radha bestows bhakti (devotion) towards Lord Krishna and wealth and prosperity.

Goddess Radha

(Rasa is an ancient concept found in the Upanishads. It is the sense of pure consciousness or the highest reality.) 

There are two more ‘purna swarups’ or the primary manifestations of Devi Prakriti: Goddess Kali and Vasundhara. 

Goddess Kali emerged from the eyes of Devi Prakriti, covering the whole universe with her dark energy. She emerged from the forehead of Goddess Durga in the battle against the demons Shubha and Nishumbha. Devi Mahakali is also called Chamunda, as she slayed the demons Chanda and Munda. She is the half of Devi Durga’s shakti and courage. Goddess Mahakali, on being provoked, could burn the entire universe with her single breath. But when worshipped and pleased, she grants boons of dharma and moksha.

Goddess Mahakali

Goddess Vasundhara is the ‘sarva jeevan pradayani’ (giver of all forms of life) and the ‘sarva saysa prasutika’ (creator of agriculture). Her name means ‘a stream of gems,’ and it is because of her benevolence that life is sustained in the world. Without Devi Vasundhara, the world would fail to exist. She bestows wealth, abundance, prosperity, and fertility.

Devi Vasundhara

As narrated by Lord Narayana to Sage Narad, Devi Prakriti has ‘ansha swarups’ (partial avatars), and they are also called ‘Vidya Devis.’ These devis are Ganga, Tulasi, Mansa, Shashti and Mangal Chandika. 

Goddess Ganga is the primary ‘ansha swarup’ of Devi Prakriti and the elder sister of Devi Parvati. When Lord Vishnu, in his Vamana incarnation, extended his left foot to the end of the universe and pierced a hole with his big toe, then pure water of the casual ocean entered the universe as the River Ganga. The River Ganga directly touches the lotus feet of Lord Vishnu before descending within the universe, hence, Goddess Ganga is also known as ‘Bahgvad-Padi’ and ‘Vishnupadi’ (emanating from the feet of Lord Vishnu). Devi Ganga settled in Brahma Loka before descending to earth at the request of Bhagiratha. She was held by Lord Shiva on his head to save the earth from her powerful force. Later, Devi Ganga was released from Lord Shiva’s hair to purify the earth and give salvation to the ancestors of Bhagiratha. The River Ganga is considered the most superior of all ‘tirthas.’ Goddess Ganga bestows spiritual knowledge and wisdom to attain moksha.

Goddess Ganga

Goddess Tulasi is also a principal ‘ansha’ (avatar) of Devi Prakriti. She adorns Lord Vishnu’s feet and is known as ‘Vishnu Vallabha.’ Any ‘sankalpa’ (proposal), worship, or meditation of Lord Vishnu or Krishna is incomplete without Tulasi leaves. To reach Lord Vishnu or Krishna, Goddess Tulasi must be invoked, and her leaves must be used in prayers. Devi Tulasi, in plant form, is reputed as ‘Kalpa Vrishka’ (tree which grants wishes). Goddess Tulasi is a bestower of boons, a giver of spiritual knowledge and prosperity, and purifies the sins of her devotees.

Goddess Tulasi

Goddess Mansa Devi is another significant ‘ansha’ of Devi Prakriti. She is also called ‘Jaratkaru’ (wife of Sage Jaratkaru, who is an ‘ansha’ avatar of Lord Krishna). She is the daughter of Sage Kashyap and ‘manas putri’ (daughter in human form) of Lord Shiva. Mansa Devi is also known as ‘Vishahari’ (the destroyer of poison) and ‘Nitya’ (the eternal one). She is the sister of Shesha and Vasuki and is the mother of sage Astika. She is the mother of Snakes and is a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. Mansa Devi performed a severe penance of six million years and was called ‘Siddha Yogini.’ Once pleased, Mansa Devi fulfills all the wishes of her devotees and grants knowledge for moksha.

Mansa Devi

Goddess Shashti is also known as Devi Devasena (the power of the army of Devtas). She is one of the matrikas and is the wife of Lord Kartikeya (Lord Subhramanyam Swamy). Devi Shashti is especially fond of children and is always around them to protect, nourish, and bless. She is worshipped on the sixth day and twenty-first day after the birth of a child. Goddess Shashti is worshipped for the protection of children from all danger and evil, good health, and long, prosperous life.

Goddess Shashti

Goddess Mangal Chandika is also one of the primary ‘ansha’ avatars of Devi Prakriti. She originated from the face of Adi Shakti and holds the celestial powers of the Tridevas. Devi Mangal Chandika aided Lord Shiva by granting him special powers to destroy the ‘tripuras’ built by the son of the demon Tarakasura. Mahadeva was the first one ever to worship Devi Mangal Chandika. Next, Mangal graha (planet Mars) worshipped her, and at his request, she became the presiding deity, the power source of Kuja or Mars. Goddess Mangal Chandika is the bestower of strength and auspiciousness and removes Kuja dosha of whoever worships her daily with utmost devotion, reciting her mantras and stotras.

Goddess Mangal Chandika

Lord Narayana explains, “the ‘Kalas’ (expressions) of Devi Prakriti has great importance, without whom the universe will fail to function properly and continue. These Devis maintain the balance and are worshipped by the devatas and sages for miraculous boons. There are infinite Kalas of Devi Prakriti as the entire universe originated from her.” 

Some of the infinite Devis born from ‘Kalansha’ of Devi Prakriti are – 

Devi Swaha, the wife of Agni Dev, without her grace, the devatas cannot gain power from the havan.

Devi Dakshina, the wife of Yagya Dev, without her power, all kinds of ‘karma’ becomes futile.

Devi Swadha is the wife of Pitra Dev. The offerings made to pitras become futile if her name is not chanted. Hence, it is only because of her power that our ancestors are satisfied and attain moksha.

Devi Swasti is the wife of Vayu Dev. Without her consent, any exchange of blessings is not possible.

Devi Pushti is the wife of Lord Ganesha. Without her mercy, all beings would become weak, feeble, and powerless.

Devi Tushti is the wife of Lord Ananta. Without her blessings, there would be no contentment and welfare.

Devi Rati is the presiding deity of Love and Play; she is the wife of Kama Dev.

Adi Shakti or Devi Prakriti is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent. She is associated with everyone and every object to accomplish various tasks of the world and keep the universe in operation. She takes infinite forms to sustain life, order, and balance in this universe; nothing is possible without her.