Chaitra Navratri has begun today, marking the start of a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. Devotees across India observe rituals, fasting, and prayers to worship her nine divine forms. The first day is dedicated to Maa Shailputri, symbolizing strength and stability.
Nine-Day Festival of Chaitra Navratri Starts Across India
New Delhi: Chaitra Navratri begins today, Thursday, 19 March , marking the start of a nine-day sacred festival dedicated to the worship, devotion, and spiritual practices honoring Goddess Bhagwati. According to Hindu beliefs, each day is devoted to one of the nine divine forms of the Goddess, whose blessings are believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes and bring peace, prosperity, and positive energy into their lives.
On the first day of Navratri, the first form of Goddess Durga, Goddess Shailputri, is worshipped. She is called Shailputri because she is the daughter of the mountain king Himalaya. She sits on a bull (Vrishabha), holding a trident in her right hand and a lotus flower in her left. She holds the first position among the Navadurga (divine goddesses), and worshipping her awakens the devotee's Muladhara Chakra, bringing stability and balance to life.
Navratri begins with the installation of the Kalash on the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of Chaitra. This day is considered a symbol of determination and faith. From this day, devotees begin their nine-day spiritual journey, worshipping the Mother Goddess with full rituals.
On the first day, bathe in the morning, wear clean clothes, and purify the place of worship. Then, perform the ritual installation of the Kalash and place the idol or picture of Goddess Shailputri. Purify it with Ganga water and offer roli, rice grains, and flowers. Offering the Mother Goddess white clothes, a ghee lamp, and prasad made of pure ghee is considered auspicious. Chant the mantra "Om Devi Shailputryai Namah" during the puja and perform the aarti with devotion.
Mother Shailputri is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, who is easily appeased by simple worship. Her grace brings peace of mind, self-confidence, and positive energy. Worshiping her is considered beneficial, especially if the mind is disturbed or one feels a lack of self-confidence.
The first day of Chaitra Navratri symbolizes devotion and determination. Worship of Maa Shailputri brings new energy and stability in life, which leads the devotees towards spiritual progress.
