The holy nine days of Chaitra Navratri begins from Tuesday April 9. Chaitra Navratri, specifically observed in the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra (March-April), holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. Lasting for nine days, this festival is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her various forms, representing the triumph of good over evil.
During these nine days, nine forms of Maa Durga are worshipped, which includes Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Maa Skandamata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kalaratri, Maa Mahagauri and Maa Siddhidatri.
The first day of the Navratri festival is known as Pratipada, and the day is dedicated to Goddess Shailputri, who is described in the scriptures as the daughter of mountains. She descends on a bull (nandi) and carries a trident and lotus in her hands. She also wears a moon on her forehead. She loves jasmine flowers and it is suggested that to worship her with fresh jasmine flowers along with dhoop, agarbatti, and kumkum. She is believed to be the provider of prosperity.
Maa Shailputri Puja Mantra
Vande Vanchhitalabhaya Chandrardhakritashekharam
Vrisharudham Shuladharam Shailputrim Yashavinim
Puja Vidhi
As per Drik Panchang, the rituals begin with Ghatasthapana or Kalash Sthapana, in which the kalash is filled with water, coins, supari, and doob. People also place a pan with mud and navadhanya seeds. During the puja, devotees install a pot at a sanctified place at home. They light a diya for nine days near the pot as well. The Goddess is worshipped with fresh jasmine flowers, dhoop, agarbatti, and laal chunari. As per experts, red colour is considered auspicious on the day 1 and it is suggested to wear the same colour to bring in prosperity and happiness.
Ghatasthapana - April 9, 2024
First Muhurta - 06:02 AM to 10:16 AM
Abhijit Muhurta - 11:57 AM to 12:48 PM
Bhog to be offered
As per experts, bhog made with desi ghee is considered auspicious for the day. It is suggested to offer Sabudana Khichdi made in desi ghee or Kalakand. Here is the simplest Sabudana Khichdi recipe that one can make at home.
Ingredients required
Sabudana, 1 cup
Ghee, 2 tbsp
Green Chilli, 1
Cumin Seeds, 1 tbsp
Sendha Namak to taste
Peanuts, 4 tbsp
Black pepper to taste
Coriander Leaves, 1 tsp
Method
Wash and soak the sabudana pearls overnight. Heat ghee in a kadhai, add cumin and green chili, and let them crackle. Now, add the pearls and sauté until they turn translucent. Add salt, pepper, and roasted peanuts. Mix well, garnish with coriander leaves, and offer the bhog to the deity.
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