Shardiya Navratri 2024: 1st Day with Maa Shailputri
Delhi News
Today marks the beginning of Shardiya Navratri, during which we honor Maa Shailputri, the first manifestation of Maa Durga. The worship of Maa Shailputri holds great importance, especially after establishing the Ghat on this inaugural day. The name “Shailputri” reflects her connection to the Himalayas, as she is the daughter of Parvataraja Himalaya. As the wife of Lord Shiva, she is also known as Vrishbharudha, symbolizing her vehicle, the bull. It is believed that sincere worship of Maa Shailputri brings fulfillment of desires and relief from all sufferings. Through her blessings, devotees can attain their goals.
Form of Maa Shailputri
Maa Shailputri, the first Goddess of Navratri, embodies serenity, simplicity, and compassion. She holds a trident in her right hand and a lotus in her left, seated majestically on the Himalayas atop the sacred bull, Nandi, who is associated with Lord Shiva. Known for her rigorous penance, Maa Shailputri is the guardian of all wild animals and represents beauty and kindness. Devotees who worship her and observe a fast on the first day of Navratri find themselves shielded from troubles as she offers protection during challenging times. She grants the wishes of her followers and aids in awakening the Muladhara Chakra, the energy center that provides stability and security in our lives.
Ghatasthapana
Ghatasthapana marks the beginning of Navratri and involves invoking Goddess Durga into a copper or clay pot, which is then placed at the worship site for the duration of nine days. To perform Ghatasthapana, you will need Gangajal, a coconut, red cloth, Mauli, neroli, sandalwood, betel leaves and nut, incense sticks, a ghee lamp, fresh fruits, a flower garland, a garland of bel leaves, and clean rice arranged on a plate. According to the Vedic calendar, Sharadiya Navratri begins on October 3 this year. The time for Ghatasthapana today is particularly auspicious, with the best moments for ceremonies in temples and Shaktipeeths occurring between 4:09 AM and 5:07 AM. For worship at home or in pandals, the ideal window is from 9:40 AM to 11:50 AM, when Scorpio Lagna will prevail, marking a generally favorable time for the rituals.
Worship Method of Mother Shailputri
The Devi Bhagwat Purana provides detailed guidance on worshiping Maa Shailputri, the first manifestation of Maa Durga. Begin the puja by rising early in the morning, donning clean attire, and placing an idol or image of Maa Durga.
On the first day of Sharadiya Navratri, devotees rise during Brahma Muhurta, take a bath, and dress in clean clothes. Next, they purify a pedestal by sprinkling it with Gangajal before placing an idol, image, or photo of Maa Durga upon it. The entire family participates in the ritual of Kalash Sthapana, following the prescribed customs.
Following Ghata Sthapana, recite the meditation mantra of Maa Shailputri and commit to fasting throughout Navratri. Maa Shailputri, the first form of Maa Durga, is honored using the Shodashopachar method, which involves invoking all rivers, sacred sites, and directions in her worship.
Offer kumkum and white, yellow, or red flowers to the Goddess. Light incense and lamps in front of her, including five lamps made of pure ghee. Then, perform the aarti for Goddess Shailputri.
Next, narrate Maa’s story, recite the Durga Chalisa, Durga Stuti, or Durga Saptashati, and sing her praises with your family. Conclude the puja by offering food to Maa. In the evening, perform Maa’s Aarti, chant mantras, and engage in meditation.
On the first day of Navratri, it is traditional to honor the Goddess
Shailputri, where “Shail” means stone, symbolizes stability and strength. On the first day of Navratri, the color white holds significant importance in the worship of Goddess Shailputri. To please the Goddess, devotees should offer white flowers, garments, and sweets. It is believed that worshiping Goddess Shailputri helps unmarried girls find a suitable groom and brings an abundance of wealth and grains to the household.
Mantra of Maa Shailputri:
Vande Vaishitlabhay Chandrardhakritshekharam.
Vrisharudham Shuldharam Shailputri Yashasvinim.
Punendu Nibham Gauri Muladhar Sthitham Pratham Durga Trinetram.
Patambar costumes Ratnakirita Namalankar Bhushita॥
Prafulla Vandana Pallavadharam Katankpolan Tung Kucham.
Kamaniyan Lavanyam Snemukhi Kshinmadhyam Nitambanim ॥
Or institution in the form of Goddess Sarvabhuteshu Shailputri.
Namastesayee, Namastesayee, Namastesayee Namo Namah.
Om Shan Shailputri Devyaih Namah.
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