This year’s Budget will be Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s eighth Budget in a row. She has presented seven budgets till now, including an interim Budget in 2024. Stay tuned for our full coverage!
Durga Puja 2024



9 Days of Durga Puja

Maa Shailputri
Navratri begins with the worship of Maa Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas. Depicted riding a bull, she carries a trshul in one hand and a lotus in the other. Praying to Maa Shailputri is believed to bring prosperity, peace, and stability, while also resolving marriage-related issues. Mantra: Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche Om Shailputri Devyai Namah
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Maa Brahmacharini
The second day is dedicated to Maa Brahmacharini, the embodiment of wisdom, penance, and restraint. Clad in white attire, she holds a rosary in one hand and a water pot in the other. Devotees seek her blessings for patience, inner strength, and discipline. Mantra: Om Hreem Brahmacharinyai Namah
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Maa Chandraghanta
On the third day, Maa Chandraghanta is worshipped. Mounted on a lion and armed with ten weapons, she is recognised by the crescent moon adorning her forehead in the shape of a bell, giving her the name Chandraghanta. Her blessings bring courage, fearlessness, and serenity. Mantra: Aim Shreem Shaktyai Namah
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Maa Kushmanda
The fourth day is devoted to Maa Kushmanda, considered the creator of the universe. Riding a lion, she is portrayed with eight arms carrying a rosary, kamandal, bow, arrow, lotus, amrit kalash, and mace. Worshipping her is said to remove sorrow and ailments while enhancing focus and intellect. Mantra: Om Aim Hreem Kleem Kushmandayai Namah
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Maa Skandmata
The fifth day honours Maa Skandmata, who carries Lord Kartikeya in her lap while riding a lion. Revered as the Goddess of the solar system, she radiates divine brilliance. Her worship is believed to bless devotees with wisdom and child-related happiness. Mantra: Om Aim Hreem Kleem Skandmatayai Namah
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Maa Katyayani
Maa Katyayani is worshipped on the sixth day. With four arms, she wields a sword and a lotus, and rides a lion. Known for her radiant, golden aura, Maa Katyayani is invoked for relief from marriage obstacles and protection against enemies. Mantra: Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah
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Maa Kalaratri
The seventh day, Maha Saptami, is dedicated to Maa Kalaratri, the fiercest form of the Goddess. With a dark complexion, riding a donkey, and adorned with lightning-like garlands, she carries a sword and an iron weapon. Devotees believe she grants freedom from fear, evil forces, and adversaries. Mantra: Om Devi Kalaratryai Namah
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Maa Mahagauri
On Maha Ashtami, devotees worship Maa Mahagauri. Riding a bull and dressed in white, her radiant complexion symbolises purity. With four arms, she holds a trishul and a drum, while bestowing blessings with her other two hands. Praying to her is believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and peace of mind. Mantra: Shree Kleem Hreem Varadayai Namah
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Maa Siddhidatri
Navratri concludes with the worship of Maa Siddhidatri on Maha Navami. Seated on a lotus, she has four arms holding a mace, chakra lotus, and conch. She is the granter of all siddhis (spiritual powers), and her worship is said to fulfil desires and lead to liberation. Rituals like Kanya Puja and havan are also performed on this day. Mantra: Om Siddhidatryai Namah
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FAQ
Union Budget 2025: How many times has Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the budget?
Which Finance Minister of India presented the shortest Union Budget?
Former Finance Minster Hirubhai M. Patel presented the shortest Budget in 1977, which was just 800 words long.
Who presented the first Union Budget of independent India?
Independent India’s first Budget was presented by Finance Minister RK Shanmukham Chetty on 26 November 1947.
In what year was the railway Budget merged with the general Budget?
In 2017, the railway Budget was merged with the general Budget and up until the year 2016, it was presented separately.