Goddess Kalaratri is one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga worshipped during the Navratri festival in India. She is known as the seventh manifestation of the Goddess and is represented as having four arms, with her right hand holding a sword and her left hand holding a burning torch. She is also depicted as riding a donkey.
The name “Kalaratri” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Kala” which means time, and “Ratri” which means night. Thus, Kalaratri is known as the Goddess of the night, who destroys darkness and ignorance. She is also known as Shubhankari, which means the one who brings auspiciousness.
Mantra/मन्त्र:
Ekveni Japakarnapura naked condition.
Lamboshthi Karnikakarni Oil devotee’s body ॥
Vampadollsallohlatakantakbhushana.
Vardhanmurdhadhvaja Krishna Kalaratrirbhayankari ॥
एकवेणी जपाकर्णपूरा नग्ना खरास्थिता।
लम्बोष्ठी कर्णिकाकर्णी तैलाभ्यक्तशरीरिणी॥
वामपादोल्लसल्लोहलताकण्टकभूषणा।
वर्धन्मूर्धध्वजा कृष्णा कालरात्रिर्भयङ्करी॥
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Kalaratri is associated with time and death. It is believed that she destroys all evil and negative energies and protects her devotees from harm. The sword in her right hand symbolizes her ability to cut through ignorance and negativity, and the burning torch in her left hand represents the light of knowledge and wisdom.
The donkey on which she rides represents stubbornness and negativity, which the Goddess destroys with her power. It is said that worshipping Goddess Kalaratri can help in overcoming fear, anxiety, and other negative emotions.
The Goddess is worshipped during the seventh day of Navratri, where devotees offer flowers, sweets, and prayers to seek her blessings. It is believed that worshipping her can help in gaining courage, wisdom, and strength to face challenges in life.
In addition to being worshipped during the Navratri festival, Goddess Kalaratri is also revered during the festival of Diwali, where her blessings are sought for prosperity and happiness.
In conclusion, Goddess Kalaratri is a powerful and fierce deity in Hindu mythology. She is associated with time and death and is known for destroying darkness and ignorance. Her blessings are sought after during the Navratri festival and Diwali. It is believed that worshipping her can help in gaining courage, wisdom, and strength to face challenges in life and overcome negativity and fear.