The name of the ninth Shakti of Mata Durga is Siddhidatri. The mother gives all kinds of siddhi. According to the Markandeya Purana, Siddhi is of eight types, viz. Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapta, Prakamya, Ishitva and Vashitva. However, Śrī Kṛiṣhṇa Janma chapter of the Brahmāvīvarta Purāṇa states that siddhis are of 18 types.
Lord Shiva achieved all these sidddhis because of the Siddhidatri. It was by her grace that half of Lord Shiva’s body became like that of a Goddess. Therefore, he is popularly known as Ardhanarishwar. Mata Chaturvhuja, Singhbahini. She holds mace, chakra, padma and śankha in her hands.
To avail the blessings from the Goddess’ feet, we have to worship her regularly and constantly. Remembrance, meditation and worship of Maa Bhagwati can make us realize the vanity of this world and lead us to the ultimate peaceful abode of reality.
Durga puja is one of the greatest festivals of India. The significance of Durga Puja goes beyond religion and is revered as the celebration of compassion, brotherhood, humanity, art and culture.
The festival marks the beginning of the day of Mahalaya when the ritual of ‘pran pratistha’ is done by painting the eyes on the goddess idol.
This year Durga Puja begins on October 1 with Maha Shashti and will end on October 5 with Maha Dasami.