Navratri is being celebrated from September 22 to October 1. During these nine days, devotees worship the Navadurga—the nine forms of Goddess Durga. These are: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri.
Among them, Maa Kalaratri is worshipped on the seventh day. She is considered a fierce form of Goddess Kali. Therefore, worshipping Goddess Kalika during Navratri is naturally included in Navadurga Puja and is regarded as an important part of the tradition.
Famous Kalika Temples in India
During Sharadiya Navratri, many renowned Kalika Mata temples witness grand celebrations and attract lakhs of devotees. Some of the most popular temples include:
Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kalighat, Kolkata
Mayyar Wali Sharda Maiya Temple, Madhya Pradesh
Garhkalika Temple, Ujjain
Shri Kalika Mata Temple, Ratlam
Baitala Deula, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Pavagadh Kalika Temple, Gujarat
Maa Kali Temple, Sonipat, Haryana
Tantric Tradition: In Tantric practices, Maa Kali is worshipped as one of the ten Mahavidyas. Devotees believe her worship brings Siddhi (spiritual powers). For them, Navratri is also an auspicious time for Kali sadhana.
Bengal Tradition: In West Bengal, Kali worship is closely linked with Durga Puja. Soon after Vijayadashami, Kali Puja (Shyama Puja) is celebrated. Devotees believe Durga and Kali are different manifestations of the same divine Shakti.
Worshipping Maa Kalika during Sharadiya Navratri is considered spiritually valid and auspicious. If you follow the Navadurga tradition, you can honor her as Maa Kalaratri on the seventh day. If you wish to worship Maa Kali exclusively, that too depends on your personal belief and tradition—and is equally meaningful.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.
