The name Maa Kalaratri is rooted in the symbolism of night and darkness. The word ‘Kala’ reflects both time and darkness, suggesting the vast, all-encompassing nature of existence, while ‘Ratri’ directly refers to the potent force of the night. Together, her name embodies the powerful essence of time and night. According to the Rigveda, this understanding was first revealed to Sage Kushika, who recognised the profound energy of the night and invoked it in the form of a Goddess.
The saying "It's darkest before the dawn" aptly captures the revered role that the darkest nights play in Hindu mythology. According to legend, when the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha threatened the heavens, the Gods of Devalok, led by Lord Indra, turned to Lord Shiva and prayed to Goddess Parvati for help. In response, Parvati created Chandi, who then gave rise to Maa Kalaratri.
At this point in the tale, the demon Raktabija enters. He had a terrifying boon — every drop of his blood that touched the ground would instantly produce another demon, making him nearly invincible. To defeat him, Maa Kalaratri drank all his blood before it could fall, enabling the Gods to triumph. However, the blood she consumed ignited a firestorm of destruction within her, causing her to go on a rampage.
Once again, the Gods sought Lord Shiva's intervention. To calm her, Shiva lay down in her path. When Maa Kalaratri stepped on him and realized it was her husband beneath her feet, her tongue extended in shock — a moment immortalized in the iconic image of Maa Kali. It was through this act that balance and peace were ultimately restored.
{{/usCountry}}Once again, the Gods sought Lord Shiva's intervention. To calm her, Shiva lay down in her path. When Maa Kalaratri stepped on him and realized it was her husband beneath her feet, her tongue extended in shock — a moment immortalized in the iconic image of Maa Kali. It was through this act that balance and peace were ultimately restored.
{{/usCountry}}Spiritually, Maa Kalaratri also presides over the Sahasrara chakra or the crown chakra which is associated with the facets of inner knowing, evolving knowledge and transcendent wisdom.
Honouring Maa Kalaratri
You can honour Maa Kalaratri by including something orange in your attire. Chanting 'Oṃ Devī Kālarātryai Namaḥ' and:
'Karalvandana dhoram muktkeshi chaturbhujam।
Kaal Ratrim karalikaam divyam vidyutmala vibhushitam॥',
in congruence with an offering of gur (jaggery) should be the order of the day.
Shubh Navratri!