Mother Goddess is the embodiment of power, love and wisdom. Navarathiri reminds us of Her nature and attributes. Mother Durga personifies power; Mother Lakshmi personifies love, beauty and concern; Mother Saraswathy personifies knowledge and wisdom.

The human body consists of three broad divisions. The abdominal region from the belly to the feet are controlled by Mother Durga. The region from the neck to the belly by Mother Lakshmi and the head region by Mother Saraswathi.

Even the life of a normal human being can be categorized into three phases. The initial phase of youth is controlled by Goddess Durga. To develop one’s physique and physical power is the concern of this stage. The second phase of employment, marriage and child bearing come within the purview of Goddess Lakshmi. The third and final stage of maturity and old age blossom out in knowledge and wisdom controlled by Goddess Saraswathi.

Even the history of Man shows three broad stages. The early Man was known for his physical prowess. He pursued physical power. The second stage of Man gave importance to beauty, human love and exquisite literary creations. The modern world worships knowledge and knowledge based arts.

Thus the influence of the three Shaktis in many a facet of human life is perceivable to all of us. To thank these three Shaktis who control and direct our lives, who walk beside us at all times, is the occasion of Navarathiri. Part of meditation is to identify the working of divine forces in one’s being and body.

The universe is the playing ground of all these Divine forces. The Kolu kept during the Navarathiri reminds us of the immanent nature of these Divine forces. Three days are set apart for each deity. The festival of Navarathiri symbolizes the transcendence of Man from the arena of body, mind and intellect towards spirituality. Vijayadasami, the day of victory, connotes that.

During Navarathiri I pray that all of you receive the blessings of all the three Shakthis. May your lives flourish with fulfillment and contentment.

Jai Prema Shanthi,

With Love and Blessings
SWAMI PREMANANDA.