Navratri 2023 Day 3: Embrace the Divine Presence of Maa Chandraghanta – Significance, Rituals, and Blessings
As the vibrant celebration of Navratri 2023 Day 3 continues to envelop us in its spiritual fervor, let us delve into the significance and rituals of Day 3, dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta.
Maa Chandraghanta – A Radiant Avatar: Maa Chandraghanta is the divine married form of Maa Parvati. Her name is derived from the half-moon, or “Chandra,” adorning her forehead, symbolizing her union with Lord Shiva. With her majestic presence, she rides a tigress, boasting ten graceful hands that carry a lotus flower, an arrow, a Dhanush (bow), and a Japa Mala (prayer beads) in her four right hands. Her fifth right hand rests in Abhaya Mudra, signifying protection, while the fifth left hand extends in Varada Mudra, representing blessings.
A Beacon of Peace and Protection: Maa Chandraghanta is renowned for her serene nature, and it is believed that the melodious sound of the moon and the bell on her forehead has the power to dispel malevolent spirits from her devotees. Ancient legends narrate how the resonating sound of her bell vanquished countless wicked demons, banishing them to the realm of the God of Death.
Navratri Day 3 – Puja Vidhi, Timing, and Samagri: On October 17, the third day of Navratri beckons devotees to connect with the divine energies of Maa Chandraghanta. The auspicious Brahma Muhurat of Tritiya Tithi commences at 4:42 AM and concludes at 5:33 AM. The Abhijit Muhurat falls between 11:43 AM to 12:29 PM, while the Amrit Kal graces us from 11:23 AM to 1:02 PM.
The Vibrant Hue of Devotion: The color of the day is resplendent red, symbolizing strength and passion. To commence the puja, devotees should rise early, don new attire, and seat the idol of the Goddess on a sacred chowki or puja sthaan. A ceremonial bath with Kesar, Ganga Jal, and Kewra infuses divinity, followed by adorning the Goddess in resplendent gold-hued garments. Fragrant yellow flowers, jasmine, panchamrit, and mishri create a fragrant offering, accompanied by the sacred bhog of kheer, symbolizing devotion and sweetness. As a gesture of gratitude, kheer is lovingly offered as prasad during the puja.
Mantras to Invoke Maa Chandraghanta’s Blessings: To invoke the divine blessings of Maa Chandraghanta, chant these powerful mantras with pure devotion:
- Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah
- Pindaja Pravararudha Chandakopastrakairyuta Prasadam Tanute Mahyam Chandraghanteti Vishruta
- Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Chandraghanta Rupena Samsthit Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah
- Apaduddharini Tvamhi Adya Shaktih Shubhparam Animadi Siddhidatri Chandraghante Pranamamyaham Chandramukhi Ishta Datri Ishtam Mantra Swarupinim Dhanadatri, Anandadatri Chandraghante Pranamamyaham Nanarupadharini Ichchhamayi Aishwaryadayinim Saubhagyarogyadayini Chandraghante Pranamamyaham
On this auspicious day of Navratri, let us immerse ourselves in the divine aura of Maa Chandraghanta, seeking her blessings, and embracing the peace and protection she bestows upon her devotees. May your Navratri be filled with spiritual enlightenment and joyous celebrations!