Navratri, a significant Hindu festival, commenced today, marking the beginning of Shardiya Navratri 2024. Celebrated with great fervor, Navratri involves the worship of Goddess Durga's nine forms. This article explores the rituals, significance of Akhand Jyoti, and the auspicious timings for Kalash Sthapana.
Shardiya Navratri 2024 Dates and Puja Schedule
Shardiya Navratri 2024 begins on October 3rd, 2024, with the worship of Maa Shailputri. Each day is dedicated to one form of Goddess Durga:
- Day 1: Maa Shailputri (October 3)
- Day 2: Maa Brahmacharini (October 4)
- Day 3: Maa Chandraghanta (October 5)
- Day 4: Maa Kushmanda (October 6)
- Day 5: Maa Skandamata (October 7)
- Day 6: Maa Katyayani (October 8)
- Day 7: Maa Kalaratri (October 9)
- Day 8: Maa Mahagauri (October 10)
- Day 9: Maa Siddhidatri (October 11)
- Vijayadashami: Durga Visarjan (October 12)
Significance of Akhand Jyoti
Akhand Jyoti symbolizes eternal light and devotion to Goddess Durga. Lighting the Akhand Jyoti is a crucial ritual during Navratri, representing unwavering faith and divine blessings. The uninterrupted flame signifies the presence of the Goddess in the household, spreading positivity and dispelling darkness.
Kalash Sthapana: Ritual and Importance
Kalash Sthapana marks the beginning of Navratri. According to Vastu Shastra, the most auspicious direction for setting up the Kalash is the northeast (Ishan Kon). This direction is associated with purity and spiritual growth, enhancing the positive energy in the house.
Steps for Kalash Sthapana:
- Choose a Clean Place: Select a clean area in the northeast direction.
- Prepare the Kalash: Fill a pot with water and add Gangajal. Place mango leaves around the pot’s rim.
- Swastik Symbol: Draw a Swastik on the pot with roli (red sacred powder).
- Sacred Items: Place betel nut, coins, and rice grains inside the pot.
- Cover with Coconut: Wrap a coconut with red cloth and tie it with a sacred thread (mouli). Place it on top of the pot.
- Invoke the Goddess: Chant mantras and perform aarti to invoke Goddess Durga’s blessings.
Daily Bhog Offerings to Goddess Durga
Each day of Navratri, different offerings are made to please the Goddess:
- Day 1: White foods like milk and sweets for Maa Shailputri.
- Day 2: Sugar and fruits for Maa Brahmacharini.
- Day 3: Milk and its products for Maa Chandraghanta.
- Day 4: Malpua for Maa Kushmanda.
- Day 5: Banana for Maa Skandamata.
- Day 6: Honey for Maa Katyayani.
- Day 7: Jaggery for Maa Kalaratri.
- Day 8: Coconut for Maa Mahagauri.
- Day 9: Halwa, chana, and puri for Maa Siddhidatri.
Akhand Jyoti: Significance and Rules
Akhand Jyoti represents unwavering devotion and the divine presence of Goddess Durga. It is essential to keep the flame burning continuously throughout Navratri. The Akhand Jyoti signifies spiritual enlightenment, divine grace, and protection.
Conclusion
Navratri is a time of spiritual reflection and devotion, celebrating the divine feminine power. By following the rituals and understanding the significance of Akhand Jyoti and Kalash Sthapana, devotees can seek the blessings of Goddess Durga for prosperity, happiness, and protection.
Stay tuned for more updates and live coverage of Navratri 2024.