Durga Puja Festivities Begins
Durga
Puja Festivities Begin, Filling Hearts with Joy!
Exciting news, everyone! The
much-anticipated festival of Durga Puja, also known as Navratri, kicks off
today, Thursday, October 3rd! This ten-day celebration is a vibrant display of
devotion to the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
Nine Nights of Celebration
Navratri, meaning "nine
nights" in Sanskrit, beautifully captures the essence of this festival.
Today marks the first day, dedicated to worshipping Maa Shailputri, the purest
form of Durga.
Twice the Blessings
Did you know? Durga Puja is
celebrated twice a year! The first, Chaitra Navratri, falls in March or April,
while the second, the more widely celebrated Shardiya Navratri, takes place in
September or October. This year, Shardiya Navratri begins today and culminates
on October 11th, with a special twist – Ashtami and Navami will be celebrated
on the same day.
The Nine Forms of Durga
Throughout the nine days, devotees
pay homage to the nine divine forms of Durga: Shailputri, Brahmacharini,
Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandmata, Katyani, Kalratri, Mahagauri, and
Siddhidatri.
Welcoming Maa Shailputri
Today, we welcome Maa Shailputri,
considered the embodiment of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Shail means
"mountain," and Putri means "daughter," signifying her
connection to the Himalayas.
Purity and Prosperity
On this first day, white is the
color of choice. Devotees wear white clothes, offer white sweets and flowers to
the Goddess. Worshipping Maa Shailputri is believed to bring prosperity and
abundance to the household, while also aiding unmarried girls in finding their
perfect match.
A Daughter of the Mountains
As Maa Shailputri is associated with
the mountains, special offerings like Sabudana Khichdi and Kalakand are
prepared in her honor.
Benefits of Worship
Worshipping Maa Shailputri is said
to ward off negative influences of the Moon planet, promoting peace, harmony,
and overall happiness. She teaches us the importance of staying true to our
roots – just as mountains stand tall and strong, so should we remain steadfast
in our values and beliefs.
Serene and Powerful
Among the nine goddesses, Maa
Shailputri holds immense significance. She is depicted with a serene and simple
demeanor, holding a trident in one hand and a lotus in the other, while riding
a bull named Nandi.
Origins and Chanting
Legend has it that Devi Parvati,
another form of Durga, was born in the Himalayas, which is called
"Shail" in Sanskrit. This is why she is also known as Shailputri. On
the first day of Navratri, devotees chant the sacred mantra "Om Devi
Shailputrai Namah" while offering her the auspicious Hibiscus flower,
symbolizing health, beauty, and immortality.
Celebrating Together
Let's come together to celebrate
this joyous festival and embrace the blessings of Maa Durga. Feel free to share
this post and spread the festive spirit!
Text and Photo by Ashok Karan,
Ashokkaran.blogspot.com
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