The use of nine leaves during Durga Puja, known as Nabapatrika or Navapatrika, is a significant ritual that symbolizes various aspects of Hindu mythology and cultural beliefs. Each of the nine leaves represents a different form of the goddess Durga and is associated with specific plants and deities. Here's an overview of the symbolism:
Banana Plant (Kola): Represents the goddess Brahmani, a manifestation of Brahma. The banana plant symbolizes fertility and prosperity.
Colocasia (Kochu): Symbolizes the goddess Kalika, a fierce form of Durga. Colocasia represents abundance and nourishment.
Turmeric (Haldi): Represents the goddess Durga in her form as Gauri, symbolizing purity and auspiciousness. Turmeric is known for its medicinal properties and its use in purification rituals.
Jayanti (Jaba): Associated with the goddess Kartiki, symbolizing victory and strength. The Jayanti plant is known for its resilience and vitality.
Wood Apple (Bel): Represents the goddess Shiva, symbolizing protection and power. The wood apple is sacred to Lord Shiva and is believed to purify the environment.
Pomegranate (Dalim): Symbolizes the goddess Raktadantika, representing health and vitality. The pomegranate fruit is associated with fertility and abundance.
Ashoka (Ashoka): Associated with the goddess Shokrahita, symbolizing joy and the dispelling of sorrow. The Ashoka tree is known for its beautiful flowers and is often linked to love and compassion.
Arum (Manaka): Represents the goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of Durga. The arum plant is linked to protection and the destruction of evil.
Rice Paddy (Dhanya): Symbolizes the goddess Lakshmi, representing wealth and prosperity. The rice paddy is a staple food and a symbol of abundance and nourishment.
During Durga Puja, the Nabapatrika is worshipped as an embodiment of the goddess Durga herself. This ritual underscores the connection between the divine and the natural world, highlighting the importance of plants and their symbolic meanings in Hindu worship. The nine leaves together signify the nine forms of Durga (Navadurga), each representing different aspects of life and the universe.