Katyayani is the sixth aspect of Navdurga Goddesses worshipped during Navratri puja. Goddess katyayani is worshipped on the sixth day in Durga Navratri pooja. In 2009, the date of Katyayani Navdurga puja is September 24.

The legend of Goddess Katyayani Mata:

Katyayani was born as the daughter of Katyayana, who was performed an austere penance to get the Mother Goddess as his daughter. Maa Katyayani was worshipped by Lord Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma and all other Gods for three days – 7^th, 8^th and 9^th days during Shukla paksha of Ashwin month – to demolish demon Mahishasura. Katyayani pleased with the puja of Gods and demolished Mahishasura on Vijaya Dashami day.

Appearance or Iconography of Maa Katyayani:

Goddess Katyayani is depicted as Chaturbhuji (four-armed) Goddess in Puranas and other sacred texts. Katyayani holds a sword and a lotus in her upper and lower left hands. The upper and lower right hands show Abhaya and Varada mudra (blessing pose). Vehicle or vahanam of Katyayani Mata is a lion.