A 41.5-metre-tall Durga Puja pandal, modelled on Vrindavan's Chandrodaya Temple, earned a Guinness World Records title as the tallest pandal ever built.

Nine days of devotion, nine forms of Durga and one powerful finale—Maha Navami brings Navratri to its most intense stretch. Observed on the ninth day, it celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, earning her the name Mahishasuramardini, or slayer of Mahishasura. The day is also dedicated to Maa Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Navadurga, who is associated with spiritual powers and blessings.

Across India, Maha Navami takes different forms. In parts of North and East India, Kanya Puja honours young girls as manifestations of the Goddess, with traditional offerings such as halwa, puri and black chana. In Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Ayudha Puja sees people worship tools, books, instruments, machinery and vehicles. Mysore Dasara adds a royal touch with the ceremonial worship of the sword, while Telangana's Bathukamma brings flowers into the festivities.

From battles to blooms, Maha Navami proves that Shakti comes in many forms, and every one has a story to tell.