Ashtami, or the eighth day, of the festival is very auspicious for many across India. In northern India, devotees revere goddess Mahagauri. She is the symbol of purity, chastity and tranquility. Many in southern India worship the matrika Narasimhi (nara meaning human, and simhi meaning lioness). Given her name, Narasimhi is a fierce protector.

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Who is Goddess Narasimhi?

Goddess Narasimhi, also known as Pratyangira, is a powerful and fierce aspect of the Divine Mother. She is associated with protection, courage, and fierce compassion. As a warrior goddess, Narasimhi is believed to be the female counterpart of Lord Narasimha, the lion-headed incarnation of Vishnu. She embodies the ferocity and strength required to destroy evil forces and protect righteousness.

Narasimhi is often depicted with a lioness face, symbolizing raw power and primal energy. She is revered for her ability to remove fear, negativity, and obstacles from the lives of her devotees. Her presence is a reminder of divine justice, ensuring that balance is restored whenever darkness threatens to overtake the world.

Her worship is especially potent for those seeking strength in times of difficulty or needing protection from harmful influences. Narasimhi’s devotees often pray for courage, protection, and the removal of internal and external enemies.

Who is Goddess Mahagauri?

Goddess Mahagauri is a serene and gentle form of Goddess Durga, symbolizing purity, peace, and calmness. She is worshipped as the embodiment of kindness, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment. Mahagauri’s radiant white complexion and attire represent inner purity and the removal of all sins and impurities.

Mahagauri is typically depicted seated on a bull, with four arms holding a trident, a damaru (drum), and a gesture of blessing, while one hand remains in the varada mudra, granting boons and fulfilling wishes. Her peaceful demeanor makes her a beloved goddess, especially for those seeking spiritual growth, forgiveness, and cleansing of negative karma.

Mahagauri is often worshipped during the final days of Navratri, representing the culmination of spiritual practices and the achievement of inner peace and liberation. Her devotees pray to her for purity of heart, mental clarity, and a calm, fulfilled life.

Related Reads and More

• The color for the day eight is pink; and the lentil is gorbanzo.
• Check out these books about/based on Narasimha (the male counterpart of the matrika Narasimhi)
  • Narasimha: The Mahaavatar Trilogy Book 1 by Kevin Missal. This is a fictionalized/retold trilogy I discovered and have added it to my TBR as I do love a good retelling.
  • And this book for young readers (5 – 10 years), again part of a series
    • Narasimha – The Lion Protector (The Adventures of Vishnu’s Avatars Book 4) by by Dinesh Deckker and Subhashini Sumanasekara 
• Another look at my golu.

And Now, the End of this Post

Dear reader, as the days of the Navaratri come towards the end (just one more day to go and then Saturday is the tenth day of victory, or Vijayadashami), I hope you have enjoyed this series here.