Katyayani

Katyayani is honoured on the sixth day. Traditions connect her name with sage Katya. She is often shown riding a lion, carrying a sword and a lotus. The sword in this picture tells us she can stop harm; the lotus reminds us that courage can serve what is good.

The Devi Mahatmya tells of the goddess defeating Mahishasura, who had frightened and troubled the world. Different traditions tell details of her form differently. The story is not an invitation for children to fight. It is a story about refusing to let cruelty rule.

If someone is being unkind at school or at play, the brave thing might be to tell a trusted adult, invite the child who was left out to join in, or say, ‘Please stop.’ Katyayani reminds us to use strength to protect, not to bully.