9 Sacred Nights of Navaratri to Honor the 9 Forms of Parvati
Navaratri is a sacred festival of devotion celebrated by people around the world. Observed over nine nights and ten days, typically between September and October each year, the festival commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga, one of the forms of Goddess Parvati, over the demon Mahishasura. According to Hindu tradition, Goddess Durga battled Mahishasura for nine days and nine nights before defeating him on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami. Navaratri therefore represents the triumph of good over evil and is regarded as one of the most significant festivals of the year. It is also traditionally believed to be a sacred period when Goddess Parvati descends to bless her devotees.
For Navaratri 2026, according to the Hindu calendar, the festival falls from 11–19 October 2026, followed by Vijayadashami on 20 October 2026.
RAVIPA invites you to discover the significance of Navaratri, an auspicious time to honor Goddess Parvati, and explore the blessings traditionally associated with her, ranging from success and love to happiness and well-being. From worship rituals and traditional offerings to meaningful jewelry inspired by the Goddess, discover ways to carry a reminder of her blessings close to you every day.
Table of content
9 Sacred Nights of Navaratri to Honor the 9 Forms of Parvati
Parvati - The Goddess of Success, Enhancing Charm and Prestige
What Does Each Night of Navaratri Represent?
Get Ready to Worship Goddess Parvati During Navaratri 2026
Where to Worship Goddess Parvati in Bangkok
Frequently Asked Questions About Navaratri
Parvati - The Goddess of Success, Enhancing Charm and Prestige
Goddess Parvati, also known as Sri Maha Uma, is one of the great goddesses of Hinduism. Revered as the “Mother of the Universe,” she is regarded as the divine mother of all living beings. Goddess Parvati is the consort of Lord Shiva, one of the three supreme deities in Hinduism, and the mother of Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya (Skanda), the god of war. She is also regarded as one of the Tridevi, together with Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati.
As the Mother of the Universe, Goddess Parvati is associated with compassion, nurturing and protection, embracing her devotees with the care of a mother protecting her children. At the same time, she represents the immense power of nature, embodying a divine strength believed to be beyond comparison.
Goddess Parvati is often depicted as a beautiful woman adorned in richly colored garments and exquisite gold ornaments. She is traditionally portrayed alongside Lord Shiva on Mount Kailash and is often accompanied by symbols of power and determination, particularly the tiger, which represents courage and mastery over immense strength. Her image brings together grace and elegance with remarkable power and resilience.
Goddess Parvati is worshipped under many names and in many forms, each reflecting different aspects of divine power. Among her most significant forms are Goddess Durga, who represents courage and the power to overcome evil, and Goddess Kali, who embodies immense transformative power and the destruction of evil.
The Blessings of Goddess Parvati
As the supreme Mother of the Universe, her blessings are traditionally believed to encompass many aspects of life. These are the blessings devotees pray for most often.
-
Love, partnership and family happiness
As the consort of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati is associated with devoted and enduring love. She is therefore traditionally revered by those who pray for a good life partner, harmonious relationships and a stable married life. For those with families, she is also believed to bring fulfillment, harmony and happiness to the home.
-
Children and protection for mothers and children
As the mother of Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya, Goddess Parvati is regarded as a source of support for those wishing to have children. She is traditionally believed to bless devotees with good offspring, protect expectant mothers and support the well-being of both mother and child.
-
Power, influence and progress in one's career
The divine concept of Shakti represents power, strength and leadership. Goddess Parvati is therefore traditionally associated with authority, confidence and the ability to lead. Her feminine power reflects grace, self-assurance and the strength to remain steadfast in the face of challenges.
-
Victory over enemies and obstacles
Goddess Parvati is traditionally believed to grant victory over enemies, overcome evil and protect devotees from those who wish them harm. She is also associated with the physical and emotional strength needed to accomplish one's endeavors, particularly when worshipped in her forms as Goddess Durga or Goddess Kali.
-
Protection from danger
Goddess Parvati is revered as a divine protector who watches over her devotees and helps them remain safe from harm. She is also associated with inner strength, encouragement and support for those who strive to live with goodness and integrity.
Goddess Durga: The Powerful Form of Goddess Parvati
One of the most revered forms of Goddess Parvati is Goddess Durga, who is believed to have manifested to defeat Mahishasura, the demon who brought suffering to both the gods and humankind. She represents divine power, strength, courage and determination.
Those who regularly worship Goddess Durga traditionally believe that she grants courage, helps devotees overcome enemies and obstacles, provides support from those around them, and brings justice and strength.
The 9 Forms of Goddess Durga and the Sacred Festival of Navaratri
Navadurga refers to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, representing different aspects of divine power and auspicious blessings, including love, influence, courage, strength and determination.
The nine forms hold particular significance during Navaratri, the auspicious nine-night period dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Each night is traditionally devoted to one form of the Goddess, representing a different quality and stage of the spiritual journey from new beginnings and determination to courage and overcoming challenges.
The Significance of Navaratri
What is Navaratri?
The word “Navaratri” comes from the Sanskrit words “Nava,” meaning nine, and “Ratri,” meaning night. Together, Navaratri means “nine nights,” referring to the period during which Goddess Durga is traditionally believed to have battled Mahishasura.
Navaratri takes place each year during the Hindu month of Ashvin, which generally falls between September and October. In many traditions, devotees honor the nine forms of Goddess Durga, one form on each of the nine nights, celebrating her victory over evil. The final day is known as Vijayadashami, also called Dussehra.
Beyond worship and religious ceremonies, Navaratri is also a time of dance, music and processions featuring sacred images of the deities. For many devotees, it is an opportunity to reflect inwardly, set intentions and pray for progress and fulfillment in different areas of life.
The Legend and Origins of Navaratri
The best-known legend associated with Navaratri tells of Mahishasura, a powerful and ruthless buffalo demon who brought suffering throughout the three worlds and could not be defeated by the gods alone. The deities therefore united their divine powers and weapons to create Goddess Durga, the warrior form of Goddess Parvati.
Goddess Durga battled Mahishasura for nine days and nine nights, ultimately defeating him on the tenth day and restoring righteousness and peace to the world.
This victory symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and righteousness over injustice. Goddess Durga is therefore revered as a divine protector who embodies strength, power and motherhood, standing ready to protect her devotees from harm.
When is Navaratri 2026?
Navaratri 2026, according to the Shardiya Navratri calendar, begins on Sunday, 11 October 2026, and ends on 19 October, followed by Vijayadashami on 20 October.
In Thailand, schedules may vary by temple and religious institution. At Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Wat Khaek, Silom) in Bangkok, the 2026 schedule is as follows:
-
10 October – Ganesha worship ceremony
-
11–19 October – Navaratri celebrations
-
20 October – Traditional Vijayadashami procession
Why do people pray to Goddess Parvati during Navaratri?
-
Faith and devotion – Navaratri is one of the most important and auspicious festivals in Hinduism, offering devotees an opportunity to express their devotion and reverence toward the Goddess.
-
A sacred period for blessings – According to traditional belief, Navaratri is a time when Goddess Parvati and the divine beings descend to the earthly realm to bless humankind. Devotees therefore commonly pray for success, progress, love and good health.
-
Celebrating the victory of good – Taking part in Navaratri is a way of commemorating the triumph of righteousness over evil.
-
A joyful time of community and celebration – Processions, music, dancing and gatherings bring devotees together in an atmosphere of shared faith and celebration.
What Does Each Night of Navaratri Represent?
It is believed that over the nine days and nights of her battle with Mahishasura, Goddess Durga revealed herself in a different form each night. Together these make up the Navadurga, the nine forms of Durga at the heart of Navaratri worship. Each form carries its own meaning and auspicious blessings, beginning with Shailaputri on the first night and ending with Siddhidatri on the ninth.
Night 1 — Shailaputri
Blessing of stability, strong foundations and new beginnings
Shailaputri is the daughter of Himavat, the personification and lord of the Himalayan mountains. This form is closely associated with nature, stability and strength. As the first form worshipped during Navaratri, Shailaputri represents the beginning of the nine-night journey and the importance of establishing strong foundations before embarking on a new path.
Night 2 — Brahmacharini
Blessing of determination, perseverance and patience
Brahmacharini represents the form in which the Goddess undertook intense spiritual discipline with unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva, her divine consort. She therefore symbolizes determination, serenity and perseverance, the strength to remain committed to one's own path without being discouraged by obstacles.
Night 3 — Chandraghanta
Blessing of courage and the strength to overcome obstacles
Chandraghanta is a powerful form of Goddess Durga associated with defeating evil and restoring peace to the world. She represents courage, conviction and the willingness to face challenges with a strong and steadfast heart.
Night 4 — Kushmanda
Blessing of light, vitality and abundance
According to legend, when the universe was still empty and enveloped in darkness, Kushmanda created the cosmos with her radiant smile, bringing light and energy into existence. This form is therefore associated with creativity, vitality, light and joy—encouraging us to recognize new possibilities and bring energy to what we set out to accomplish.
Night 5 — Skandamata
Blessing of love, compassion and protection
Skandamata means “Mother of Skanda,” referring to Lord Kartikeya, the god of war. She is often depicted with her son seated upon her lap, symbolizing the warmth, love, compassion and protective nature of a mother, as well as the strength of family bonds.
Night 6 — Katyayani
Blessing of strength, determination, good health and victory
Katyayani is regarded as one of the most powerful warrior forms of the Goddess. In several traditional texts, she is identified as the form who defeated Mahishasura. She represents determination, physical and emotional strength, and the courage to stand firmly for what is right, serving as a reminder to trust in one's own abilities and face challenges with confidence.
Night 7 — Kalaratri
Blessing of dispelling darkness, ignorance and negativity
Kalaratri is considered the most fierce and formidable of the Navadurga forms. With a complexion as dark as the night, she represents the power to dispel darkness, fear and evil, symbolizing the courage to confront and overcome what stands in one's way.
Night 8 — Mahagauri
Blessing of peace, purity and auspiciousness
Mahagauri is depicted with a complexion as radiant as moonlight, symbolizing purity, peace and grace. Her form represents a return to simplicity and inner serenity, reminding devotees of the beauty found in calmness and clarity.
Night 9 — Siddhidatri
Blessing of fulfillment, achievement and opportunities for success
Siddhidatri means “the giver of accomplishments.” According to traditional belief, she grants spiritual attainments and accomplishments to gods, sages, Siddhas, celestial beings, humans and other divine beings. As the final form of Navadurga, she represents the culmination of the nine-night journey, the fulfillment that comes from perseverance and the opportunity to move toward success and completion.
Get Ready to Worship Goddess Parvati During Navaratri 2026
What to Wear to Navaratri
-
Recommended colors – White and vibrant shades such as red, yellow, orange and pink are traditionally popular choices. Those who wish to embrace Indian traditions may also choose to wear a sari to complement the atmosphere of the celebration.
-
Colors to avoid – Black is traditionally avoided during the celebration.
-
Jewelry – Choose jewelry that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Meaningful pieces inspired by Goddess Parvati can also serve as a personal reminder of her blessings of success, charm, and power to overcome obstacles throughout the auspicious period of Navaratri.
Traditional Offerings for Goddess Parvati
Popular offerings traditionally presented to Goddess Parvati during Navaratri include:
-
Yellow and red flowers, particularly marigolds, roses and orchids
-
Fragrant offerings, such as incense, aromatic resins and perfume
-
Sweets and food offerings, including modak, laddoo, fruits and various grains
Meaningful Jewelry to Wear During Navaratri
Navaratri is a meaningful time for many devotees to set intentions, offer prayers and seek blessings from Goddess Parvati. Some choose to wear jewelry inspired by Parvati as a personal reminder of the blessings they wish to carry with them—such as strength, determination, confidence and love.
When choosing Parvati jewelry, consider a design and symbolism that resonates with your own intentions, whether they are related to success, strength, confidence or love. Look for pieces that can effortlessly become part of your everyday style, allowing the meaning behind the design to remain close to you wherever the day takes you.
-
Parvati Necklaces
-
Parvati Bracelets
Where to Worship Goddess Parvati in Bangkok
One of the most significant places to worship Goddess Parvati in Thailand is Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Wat Khaek, Silom), a historic Hindu temple in the heart of Bangkok. Widely known as an important place of Hindu worship, the temple hosts an annual Navaratri celebration that draws large numbers of devotees who come to take part in the ceremonies and pay their respects to Goddess Parvati.
One of the festival's highlights is the Vijayadashami procession, held toward the end of Navaratri. During the procession, sacred images of Goddess Parvati and other deities are carried from the temple through the surrounding streets, allowing devotees to participate in the worship and experience the longstanding traditions and atmosphere of the celebration.
Goddess Parvati Prayers
Goddess Parvati
The Goddess of Success, Enhancing Charm and Prestige
Om Jai Mar-ta Dee (3 Times)
Om Sha-ya Sri Pa-ra-wa-tee Mar-ta (3 Times)
Om Sri Mar-ha Ou-mar-tei-wa-yai Na-mah (3 Times)
Frequently Asked Questions About Navaratri
What blessings are traditionally associated with worshipping during Navaratri?
According to traditional beliefs, worshipping Goddess Parvati throughout the nine days of Navaratri is an expression of devotion and an opportunity to set intentions and pray for blessings in different areas of life.
Devotees believe that the Goddess offers protection from negativity and obstacles while strengthening the heart, confidence and resilience needed to navigate life's journey. Her blessings are also traditionally associated with peace, harmony and auspiciousness for oneself and one's family.
When does Navaratri take place each year?
Navaratri is an important Hindu festival that generally takes place in September or October each year. It corresponds to the first through ninth lunar days of the Hindu month of Ashvin, and the exact dates change from year to year according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
What is Vijayadashami and why is it important?
Vijayadashami, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is the tenth day following the nine nights of Navaratri. The day represents the triumph over evil and obstacles and serves as an important conclusion to the festival.
In Thailand, Vijayadashami is marked by significant ceremonies and activities at several Hindu temples. At Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Wat Khaek, Silom), in particular, a traditional procession carries sacred images of the deities from the temple through the surrounding streets, allowing devotees to participate in the annual tradition and pay their respects along the route.
Are Goddess Parvati, Goddess Durga and Goddess Kali the same Goddess?
Yes. In the traditions, the three Goddesses are understood as manifestations of the same divine feminine power, expressed through different forms and aspects.
Goddess Parvati represents the beautiful and gentle form of the Goddess. When she takes on a warrior form to battle demons, she is manifested as Goddess Durga. When her fierce power is invoked to destroy evil, she is manifested as Goddess Kali.
Which deity should be worshipped before praying to Goddess Parvati?
According to a common Hindu worship tradition, devotees often begin by praying to Lord Ganesha, seeking blessings for their intentions and for a smooth and unobstructed path ahead.
A commonly recited prayer is: “Om Sri Ka-nae-saya Na-ma-ha”. This may traditionally be chanted 3 or 9 times before continuing with prayers to Goddess Parvati.
