Ma Mahagauri: 8th Form of Durga

Maa Durga is worshiped as Maa Mahagauri on eighth Navratri. Mahagauri is the eight form of Goddess Shakti. Her color is white. Whiteners is shown by shell, moon etc. Mahagauri means one clean and bright like a ray of lightning.

This is the form of Goddess Parvati when she did penance to get Lord Shiva as her husband. It is believed that due to the intense Tapas performed by her without moving caused soil and dust to collect on her body. Lord Shiva cleaned her with water from Ganga that's why she get whiteners as shine & got the name as Maha Gauri.Purity is depicted in this form of Durga.

The Goddess is in the form of eight-year old child with complexion as fair as a conch, moon and jasmine. Her clothes and ornaments are white and pure. She has three eyes and four arms. Her right upper hand is in the pose of allaying fear and right lower hand holds a trident in it. The left upper hand holds a tambourine and the lower one is in the pose of blessing. All sins of devotees are washed away due to her worship. Her power is unfailing and instantly fruitful.

The eighth day of Navratri Pooja has much importance. Durga Ashtami Puja is held in many parts of India. If human worship after fast he/she gets fruits immediately. In front of Portrait of Goddess Mother as in front of Parvati Mata in Lord Shiva temple one can worship Maa MahaGauri. She appeared in the form of Maa Ambaji, Maa Kalika, Maa Bahucharaji etc.