According to scriptural injunctions Kanyaa Poojaa or the worship of nine girls, between the ages of two to ten years is but a representation of the Divine Mother. Devotees who worship the Divine Mother in the form of Durgaa, Kaali, Lakshmi and Saraswatee during the Nau Raatri period perform Kanyaa Poojaa at the end of their ‘vrat’ or sacrifice. It can also be performed whenever Devi Poojaa is done. Offerings of chandan, malas, flowers, aartee, dakshinaa and other gifts are made to them. Each ‘Devi’ or girl is symbolic of some benefit derived from the sacrifice and worship. The following is an account of the nine Devis and the benefits.
|
AGE |
NAME |
EFFECT or BENEFIT |
| Two years | Kumaarika | End of afflictions, enemies, enhancement of wealth, prosperity good health |
| Three years | Trimoorti | Prosperity, family welfare |
| Four years | Kalyaani | Good knowledge, victory desires fulfilled |
| Five years | Rohini | End of afflictions |
| Six years | Kaalikaa | End of enemies |
| Seven years | Chandikaa | Gift of wealth |
| Eight years | Shaambhavi | Government recognition, victory in battle |
| Nine years | Durgaa | Peace after death |
| Ten years | Subhadra | Fulfillment of desires |
