Why Is Maa Durga Arriving on an Elephant in Shardiya Navratri 2025 and What Is Its Significance?
By Pt. Suvrat Sharma
In Navratri 2025, Maa Durga arrives on an elephant, a rare sign symbolizing rain and prosperity.
Table of Contents
In Sanatan Dharma, Navratri holds a highly revered place. Out of the four Navratris in a year, Shardiya Navratri is considered the most important. Across India, magnificent pandals are decorated, idols of the Goddess are installed and for nine days the nine forms of Maa Durga are worshipped with rituals.
This year Shardiya Navratri will begin on Monday, 22 September 2025 and will end with Vijayadashami on Thursday, 2 October 2025. The special coincidence is that this time the Goddess will arrive on an elephant, a rare and auspicious occurrence.
Dates and Special Coincidence of Shardiya Navratri 2025
| Ritual/Festival | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Ghatasthapana and Start of Navratri | 22 September 2025 | Monday |
| Ashtami | 29 September 2025 | Monday |
| Navami | 30 September 2025 | Tuesday |
| Vijayadashami | 2 October 2025 | Thursday |
What does Maa Durga’s elephant vehicle signify?
According to tradition, Maa Durga’s vehicle is decided by the weekday on which Navratri begins.
- If Navratri starts on Sunday or Monday, Maa Durga arrives on an elephant.
- The elephant symbolizes rainfall, fertility and prosperity.
- It is also seen as a sign of peace and stability in society.
As Navratri in 2025 begins on a Monday, it is believed that there will be abundant rains, agricultural prosperity and overall well-being.
Why is the worship of Maa Durga during Navratri considered so special?
Each of the nine days of Navratri is dedicated to one of the nine forms of Maa Durga. Every day has its own rituals and spiritual importance.
| Day | Worshipped Form | Attribute |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Shailputri | Stability and strength |
| Day 2 | Brahmacharini | Austerity and discipline |
| Day 3 | Chandraghanta | Peace and fortune |
| Day 4 | Kushmanda | Energy and health |
| Day 5 | Skandamata | Blessings of children |
| Day 6 | Katyayani | Marital bliss |
| Day 7 | Kalaratri | Removal of fear |
| Day 8 | Mahagauri | Purity |
| Day 9 | Siddhidatri | Attainment of spiritual powers |
Why is Navratri 2025 considered highly fruitful?
Astrologers believe that the arrival of Maa Durga on an elephant is not only auspicious for farmers but also beneficial for society as a whole.
- It brings indications of peace and prosperity.
- It is a sign of good rains and success in agriculture.
- It is considered highly favorable for spiritual practices and energy attainment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will Shardiya Navratri 2025 be celebrated?
It will start on Monday, 22 September 2025 and end on Thursday, 2 October 2025.
What is the meaning of Maa Durga arriving on an elephant?
The elephant represents prosperity, rainfall and stability. Its arrival is considered highly auspicious.
Which forms of Maa Durga are worshipped during Navratri?
From Shailputri to Siddhidatri, all nine forms are worshipped, each with a special significance.
Is the Navratri of 2025 a rare coincidence?
Yes, because it begins on a Monday, leading to Maa Durga arriving on an elephant, a rare and auspicious combination.
Why is Navratri 2025 considered especially important for farmers?
Because the elephant symbolizes fertility and rainfall, promising good crops and agricultural prosperity.
