Celebrating Navratri Day 3 with the Worship of Maa Chandraghanta
Navratri is a significant Hindu festival celebrated twice a year, marking the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The Sharad Navratri, observed in October-November, is dedicated to invoking the divine energies of Maa Durga for strength and guidance. On the third day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Chandraghanta, the third form of the Goddess, who symbolizes courage and justice. Her blessings remove negativity and usher in peace and tranquility.
Let’s explore the significance, story, and Puja Vidhi (rituals) for worshipping Maa Chandraghanta on Day 3 of Navratri 2024.
Who is Maa Chandraghanta? The Goddess of Justice and Peace
Maa Chandraghanta is the married form of Goddess Parvati. After her marriage to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati began adorning her forehead with a half-moon, which resembles the shape of a bell (Ghanta). Hence, she came to be known as Maa Chandraghanta. This form of the Goddess signifies justice, courage, and the removal of negativity.
Maa Chandraghanta is depicted riding a lion, symbolizing Dharma (righteousness). Her radiant golden complexion and ten hands, each holding different weapons, signify her strength and readiness to battle evil forces. She also carries a Japa Mala (rosary), representing the calmness and peace she brings to her devotees.
Significance of Worshipping Maa Chandraghanta
Maa Chandraghanta governs the Manipura Chakra, located at the navel. This chakra represents power, self-confidence, and transformation. Meditating on this chakra during Navratri helps devotees gain courage, conquer fear, and experience spiritual growth.
Maa Chandraghanta’s blessings are associated with the planet Sun, symbolizing energy, leadership, and vitality. Her presence is believed to cleanse the aura of negative energies, promote positivity, and bring prosperity.
The Story of Maa Chandraghanta’s Valor and Courage
The story of Maa Chandraghanta is a tale of valor and courage. After her marriage to Lord Shiva, she took on this form to protect the universe from evil forces. Armed with weapons and riding a lion, she fought fiercely against demons to restore peace and Dharma.
In this form, the Goddess emits powerful energy that wards off evil spirits and protects her devotees from harm. She is also known for her calm demeanor and kindness, assuring her followers that she will stand by them during times of struggle.
Puja Vidhi for Maa Chandraghanta on Navratri Day 3
On the third day of Navratri, devotees perform special rituals to seek the blessings of Maa Chandraghanta. Here is the detailed Puja Vidhi:
- Early Morning Preparation: Begin the day with a bath and wear clean, preferably white or yellow clothes, symbolizing peace and purity.
- Kalash Sthapna (Sacred Pot Installation): Place a Kalash filled with water, adorned with mango leaves and a coconut, at the center of the Puja area.
- Invoke Maa Chandraghanta: Light a ghee lamp (Diya) and incense sticks. Offer garlands, flowers, vermillion (Kumkum), and Shringaar items (beauty items) to the Goddess.
- Chant Mantras: Recite Maa Chandraghanta’s mantras with full devotion to invoke her divine presence.
- Offer Bhog Prasad: Prepare Bhog (food offering) such as kheer, fruits, and sweets. Offer it to the Goddess and distribute it as Prasad among family members.
- Perform Aarti: Conclude the Puja by performing Aarti (ceremonial worship with fire) and singing hymns dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta.
- Observe Fasting: Devotees who observe fasts on this day break their fast by consuming sattvik (pure) food after offering the Bhog to the Goddess. Avoid onion, garlic, and tamsik (non-vegetarian) food items.
Special Rituals for Day 3 of Navratri
Devotees also read the Durga Saptashati Paath and Durga Chalisa to seek Maa Chandraghanta’s blessings. It is believed that these readings help in purifying the mind and body and bring spiritual benefits to the reader.
Mantras to Chant for Maa Chandraghanta’s Blessings
Chanting Maa Chandraghanta’s mantras helps invoke her divine energy and seek protection, peace, and prosperity. Here are a few mantras dedicated to her worship:
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पिण्डजप्रवरारूढा चण्डकोपास्त्रकैर्युता। प्रसादं तनुते मह्यां चन्द्रघण्टेति विश्रुता॥
Pindaj Pravara Rudha Chand Kopastra Keyurta Prasadam Tanute Maham Chandra Ghanteti Vishruta
Translation: “I bow to Maa Chandraghanta, who bestows her blessings and is renowned for her fierce energy and supreme grace.”
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ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः॥
Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah
Translation: “I offer my salutations to the radiant Goddess Chandraghanta.”
Benefits of Worshipping Maa Chandraghanta
Worshipping Maa Chandraghanta on the third day of Navratri brings several benefits:
- Eliminates Fear and Anxiety: Her blessings remove fear and anxiety from the minds of her devotees.
- Enhances Courage and Determination: She provides strength and courage to face challenges.
- Purifies the Aura: The sound of the moon bell on her forehead cleanses negative energies and purifies the aura.
- Spiritual Growth: Her worship helps balance the Manipura Chakra, promoting spiritual growth and inner harmony.
Conclusion: Seek the Divine Grace of Maa Chandraghanta on Navratri Day 3
The third day of Navratri, dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, is a day to seek justice, courage, and inner peace. By performing the rituals and chanting her mantras with devotion, devotees can invite positivity and happiness into their lives. May Maa Chandraghanta bless you and your family with prosperity, health, and peace during this Navratri.
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