Navratri is a nine-day celebration dedicated to the divine feminine, culminating in the victory of good over evil. Each day honors a different form of Maa Durga, and the 6th day, known as Shashti or Shashti Tithi, holds special spiritual significance. On this day, devotees worship Maa Katyayani, the fierce and powerful form of Goddess Durga. She is believed to bestow courage, remove obstacles, and grant wishes, especially those related to justice, strength, and personal transformation.
This day is seen as a turning point in the Navratri festival — after observing austerities and worship for five days, the sixth day amplifies our resolve. It is said that by sincerely offering prayers and keeping fast, one can purify the mind, overcome inner weaknesses, and receive Maa’s blessings for protection and success. Many traditions hold that Maa Katyayani, in her warrior form, helps her devotees vanquish internal demons such as fear, doubt, and negativity.
In many regions, the color red is associated with Day 6, symbolizing strength, energy, and divine power. Devotees often wear red garments, offer red flowers, use red kumkum, and decorate the altar with red elements to honor the Goddess.
What to Do on Day 6: Puja Rituals & Procedure
To perform puja on Navratri Day 6, follow these traditional steps (adapt to your local customs):
Start the day with purification rituals by bathing early and wearing clean, preferably red, clothes. Clean the puja area and arrange the idol or picture of Maa Katyayani on an altar decorated with flowers, incense, diya (lamp), and a red cloth.
Light a ghee lamp and incense before offering red flowers, sandalwood paste, kumkum, fresh fruits, sweets, and coconut to the Goddess. Recite mantras such as “Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah” with devotion, ideally 108 times, for maximum spiritual benefits. Conclude the puja with aarti, distribute prasad among family members, and sit in meditation to seek Maa’s blessings.
Fasting Rules & Guidelines
Many devotees observe a strict fast (nirjala) with only water, while others prefer a partial fast (fruits, milk, nuts). Non-vegetarian food, onions, garlic, and alcohol are strictly avoided. The fast is meant to cleanse both body and mind, sharpen focus in worship, and intensify spiritual receptivity.
Some devotees eat once during the day with simple sattvic meals, while others may only consume fruits or milk. Always adapt fasting to your health and consult a doctor if you have any medical conditions.
Puja Time & Date (2025)
For the 6th day of Sharad Navratri 2025, the date falls on September 27, 2025. The puja is ideally performed during the auspicious morning or midday hours. For exact timings, devotees should consult their local Panchang or temple calendar to ensure they follow the correct muhurat.
Why Day 6 Matters: Deeper Significance
Worshiping Maa Katyayani on Shashti symbolizes the inner battle against ego, negativity, and fear. This day encourages us to take bold steps, stand firm in faith, and invoke the courage that resides within our hearts. The red symbolism not only represents physical energy but also the burning away of impurities.
As the festival progresses, Day 6 marks the “mid-point of transformation” — when devotees begin to feel renewed vigor, clarity of purpose, and deeper spiritual connection. It is not merely ritualistic — it is an inward journey of awakening the warrior spirit of devotion.
Celebrate Navratri with Modi Toys
As you observe Navratri and seek divine inspiration, consider gifting something that combines devotion with joy. Modi Toys offers beautifully crafted cultural toys and books that help children and families connect with our heritage.
Whether it’s a Durga-themed toy, devotional playset, or storybook, these are more than just gifts — they are blessings wrapped in tradition. A Modi Toys product makes a perfect gift toy in India, and it is among the best toy in India for those who value both play and spirituality.
This Navratri, bring home devotion with Modi Toys and make your celebrations truly meaningful.
