As the resplendent festival of Chaitra Navratri unfolds, devotees immerse themselves in worship, fasting, and rituals dedicated to the divine feminine energy embodied by Goddess Durga. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different manifestation of the Goddess, known as Navadurga. On the third day, worshippers pay homage to Maa Chandraghanta, the embodiment of strength, peace, and serenity.
Who is Maa Chandraghanta?
Maa Chandraghanta is the married form of Maa Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva. She is depicted with a crescent moon adorning her forehead, symbolizing beauty and grace. Riding a tigress and possessing ten hands, Maa Chandraghanta carries various weapons and symbols, including a lotus flower, arrow, bow, and prayer beads. Her serene presence is believed to dispel negativity and protect her devotees from harm. Legend has it that the sound of her bell has the power to vanquish demons and instill courage in her worshippers.
Chaitra Navratri 2024 Day 3: Significance and Observances
Chaitra Navratri, celebrated during the Hindu month of Chaitra, holds immense significance for devotees worldwide. The nine nights of Navratri symbolize the victory of good over evil, with each day dedicated to worshipping a different aspect of Goddess Durga. Maa Chandraghanta, worshipped on the third day, represents inner strength, tranquility, and the ability to overcome challenges.
Puja Rituals and Observances
Devotees observe various rituals to honor Maa Chandraghanta on the third day of Navratri. The day typically begins with devotees waking up early, adorning themselves, and offering prayers to the Goddess. Traditional rituals include offering jasmine flowers, rice, and sandalwood to the deity, followed by an abhishek (ritual bathing) with milk, curd, and honey. Special offerings such as sugar bhog are prepared and presented to the Goddess as a token of devotion.
Chaitra Navratri 2024 Day 3: Auspicious Timings
According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious timings for observing Chaitra Navratri Day 3 are as follows:
- Tritiya Tithi begins at 5:32 pm
- Moonrise at 07:33 pm
- Vijaya Muhurat from 2:30 pm to 5:21 pm
- Ravi Yoga starts at 06:00 am on April 11 and ends at 1:38 am on April 12.
The Color of the Day: Yellow
Yellow is the auspicious color associated with the third day of Navratri. Devotees dress in yellow attire to pay homage to Maa Chandraghanta. Yellow symbolizes joy, optimism, and positivity, reflecting the Goddess’s serene and benevolent nature.
Puja Mantra and Stotra
Reciting mantras dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta is an integral part of Navratri celebrations. Here are some powerful mantras and stotras to invoke the blessings of the Goddess:
- Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah॥
- Pindaja Pravararudha Chandakopastrakairyuta। Prasadam Tanute Mahyam Chandraghanteti Vishruta॥
- Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Chandraghanta Rupena Samsthita। Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah॥
- Apaduddharini Tvamhi Adya Shaktih Shubhparam। Animadi Siddhidatri Chandraghante Pranamamyaham॥
Summing Up
Chaitra Navratri Day 3, dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, offers devotees an opportunity to seek inner peace, strength, and protection. By observing rituals, reciting mantras, and embracing the divine energy of the Goddess, worshippers can navigate life’s challenges with courage and grace. As the festival continues, may the blessings of Maa Chandraghanta illuminate the path of all her devotees.
