Every year, as Navratri begins, our WhatsApp groups and Instagram feeds light up with colours — yellow on Day 1, green on Day 2, grey on Day 3… but have you ever paused and wondered, *“Why do we wear these colours?”*
Let me take you on a little story.
The Tale Behind the Colors
A long time ago, when the world was losing its balance, darkness and chaos began to spread. People prayed for strength, hope and guidance. In answer to their prayers, the Divine Mother took nine different forms, each radiating a unique power — courage, compassion, wisdom, devotion, transformation…
Day 1 – Shailputri
On the first day, the Goddess came as Shailputri, the daughter of the mountains. Her grey dress reflected calmness and strength — the strength of the earth itself.
Day 2 – Brahmacharini
On the second day, she appeared as Brahmacharini, the goddess of penance and devotion. Her orange attire symbolised warmth, courage, and determination to follow the path of righteousness.
Day 3 – Chandraghanta
The third day honoured Chandraghanta, who rides a tiger and carries the sound of the moon bell. Her white robe radiated peace, purity, and inner calm.
Day 4 – Kushmanda
On day four, she manifested as Kushmanda, the creator of the universe with her smile. Her red dress shone with energy, creativity, and passion.
Day 5 – Skandamata
The fifth day celebrated Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya. Her royal blue attire symbolised wisdom, leadership, and divine grace.
Day 6 – Katyayani
On day six, she appeared as Katyayani, the fierce warrior born to Sage Katyayan. Her yellow clothing shone with courage, joy, and determination.
Day 7 – Kalaratri
The seventh day was devoted to Kalaratri, the dark and fierce goddess who destroys ignorance. Her green attire reflected renewal, fearlessness, and fresh beginnings.
Day 8 – Mahagauri
On the eighth day, she manifested as Mahagauri, pure and radiant. Her peacock green / purple dress symbolised transformation, compassion, and hope.
Day 9 – Siddhidatri
The ninth day honoured Siddhidatri, the goddess who grants success and spiritual powers. Her pink clothing brought harmony, love, and fulfilment to her devotees.
Generations later, devotees began wearing these colours during the nine sacred nights, not as a rule but as a joyful way of remembering her energies and keeping that story alive.
Meaning of Each Navratri Color
| Day | Color | Symbol |
| 1 | Yellow | New beginnings & energy |
| 2 | Green | Growth & compassion |
| 3 | Grey | Strength & reflection |
| 4 | Orange | Vibrance & action |
| 5 | White | Peace & purity |
| 6 | Red | Courage & passion |
| 7 | Royal Blue | Trust & devotion |
| 8 | Pink | Hope & universal love |
| 9 | Purple | Transformation & wisdom |
A Modern Tradition of Navratri Dress Codes
In recent years these “nine colours” have become a social trend. Offices run colour codes, friends post selfies and schools plan theme days. Whether you’re spiritual or just love the excitement of dressing up, these shades connect you to the festival in a visual way.
Disclaimer: Are These Colors Scriptural?
There’s no single ancient scripture listing these exact nine colours. The practice is a modern tradition popularised by newspapers, media and community calendars. Different regions and temples may follow different sets of colours. Think of it less as a rigid rule and more as a joyful way to participate.
How to Celebrate Navratri Your Way
So this Navratri, pick the colours, dance your heart out, teach your kids the stories, or simply enjoy the festive vibe. The beauty of Navratri is in the devotion, energy and community spirit, not just in the shade you wear.
Happy Navratri!
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