In the sacred cave of Maa Vaishno Devi Dham, after the darshan of Maa Mahagauri, devotees are blessed with the divine and radiant form of Maa Siddhidatri. The grand idol, about 6.3 feet in height, 5.9 feet in width, and 4 feet in diameter, fills the entire cave with spiritual light and energy. It appears as if the Goddess herself has descended to bestow divine powers and blessings upon her devotees.
On the ninth day of Navratri (Mahanavami), Maa Durga is worshipped in her ninth form, Maa Siddhidatri. Her name means "the Goddess who grants Siddhis (divine powers)". She blesses her devotees with the eight Siddhis (supernatural powers) and nine Nidhis (treasures). Scriptures say that it is Maa Siddhidatri who made Lord Shiva complete in his Ardhanarishwar (half male – half female) form.
The idol of Maa Siddhidatri has four arms. She holds a conch (Shankh), discus (Chakra), mace (Gada), and a lotus (Kamal). Her vehicle is the lion, symbolising strength, courage, and victory. Her calm, compassionate, and divine face radiates peace and makes the whole cave shine with divine brilliance.
Maa Siddhidatri is unique because she grants not only Siddhis and worldly prosperity but also the highest blessing of moksha (liberation). By worshipping her, a devotee attains both material happiness and spiritual growth.
The Navami day of Navratri is considered very special for her worship. Devotees offer her red and blue flowers, which are especially dear to her. On this day, Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls as the embodiment of the Goddess) and Havan (sacred fire ritual) are also performed with devotion.
Through her worship, devotees receive divine powers, prosperity, peace, and the ultimate path to liberation. She removes all sorrows and obstacles, guiding her devotees towards self-realisation and eternal bliss.
Jai Maa Siddhidatri!
