Navratri, a vibrant and significant Hindu festival, spans nine nights dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her various forms. The Shardiya Navratri 2024 begins on October 3, marking the first day with the worship of Maa Shailputri, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. This article delves into the significance, rituals, and puja vidhi associated with this auspicious day.
Significance of Maa Shailputri
Maa Shailputri, known as the "daughter of the mountains," is revered as the first form of Goddess Durga. She symbolizes purity, strength, and nature, embodying the divine energies of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Her worship on this day is believed to bring spiritual enlightenment and inner strength to devotees.Characteristics of Maa Shailputri
- Depiction: Maa Shailputri is often depicted riding a bull (Nandi), holding a trident in her right hand and a lotus in her left.
- Mythological Background: She is considered the rebirth of Goddess Sati, who took birth as the daughter of King Himavat and Queen Maina to marry Lord Shiva.
Rituals for Navratri Day 1
The first day of Navratri is marked by Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana), a ritual that invites divine blessings into homes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing the puja:Essential Items (Samagri)
- Kalash (earthen pot)
- Mango leaves
- Coconut
- Red thread (Kalawa)
- Gangajal (holy water)
- Flowers
- Fruits
- Incense sticks
- Diyas (lamps)
- Paan, supari, elaichi (betel leaf, areca nut, cardamom)
- Seasonal fruits
Puja Vidhi
- Purify the Puja Area: Cleanse the area with Gangajal to create a sacred space.
- Setup: Place a wooden plank covered with a red cloth. Position the idol or picture of Maa Shailputri on it.
- Kalash Preparation: Fill an earthen pot with soil and seeds (navadhanya), add water, and cover it with a plate. Decorate it with mango leaves and place a coconut on top.
- Offerings: Light a diya using desi ghee, offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to Maa Shailputri.
- Chant Mantras: Recite mantras dedicated to Maa Shailputri for blessings.
Important Timing
The most auspicious time for Ghatasthapana on October 3, 2024, is from 06:15 AM to 07:22 AM.Mantras for Worship
Chanting specific mantras dedicated to Maa Shailputri enhances devotion during the puja. Here are some key mantras:- ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः॥
Om Devi Shailputryai Namah - या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शैलपुत्री रूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः।
Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Shailaputri Rupena Samsthita...