On the ninth day of Navratri, i.e., Navami, a special Kanya Pujan (worship of girls) is held across the country. On this day, nine girls are worshipped, their feet are washed, and they are honored as symbols of the Goddess. Faridabad's Mahant Swami Kameshwaranand Vedantacharya explained in detail the tradition and religious significance behind this puja.

Kirgans are considered symbols of the Goddess.
According to Mahant Swami, there are nine forms of the Mother Goddess, which people worship on different days. Some worship on Ashtami, while others worship on Navami. Of these nine forms, girls aged five to seven are considered manifestations of the Goddess. Therefore, on Navami, nine girls aged five to seven are worshipped as symbols of the Mother Goddess. Their feet are washed while they are served, and they are ritually offered food, clothes, and other offerings.

A small child is seated during the Kanya Pujan.
A small boy, considered a monkey, is also seated during the Kanya Pujan. The significance of this monkey is that it symbolizes the protector of the Mother Goddess, i.e., Bhairav. Mahant Swami explained that there is always a small temple dedicated to Bhairav ​​near the Mother Goddess's temple. The gentle form of Bhairav ​​sits beside the Mother Goddess as a guard. The tradition of Kaal Bhairav ​​is still alive in Kashi. A picture of Bhairav ​​is placed at police stations and outposts there, symbolizing their protector.

A Child Represents Bhairav
During Navratri, when nine girls are worshipped, a monkey is seated among them. This boy, who must be between ten and twelve years old, is considered a representative of Bhairav. Sometimes, two boys are seated, one representing Bhairav ​​and the other Ganesha. This gentle form of Bhairav ​​remains permanently seated near the Mother Goddess to protect her.

What is the belief?
Mahant Swami also explained that Lord Shiva manifested Bhairav ​​Ji to protect the Mother Goddess. Therefore, the presence of a monkey with the girls on the Navami day is considered extremely important from a religious and cultural perspective. This tradition not only shows respect for the Mother Goddess but also symbolizes her safety and protection.

The Significance of Navami
The festival of Navratri is also special because the presence of Bhairav ​​Ji, along with the nine forms of the Mother Goddess, reminds us that power and protection always go together. The celebration of this day conveys a message of faith, devotion, and righteousness, filling every devotee's life with positive energy and faith. The presence of a monkey during the Kanya Pujan on Navami is not just a tradition but a living symbol of Bhairav ​​Ji's role in protecting the Mother Goddess and religious faith.

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