Navratri, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, begins with the worship of Maa Shailputri on the first day. This year, Navratri starts on October 3, 2024, marking the beginning of nine days of devotion, rituals, and celebrations dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Maa Shailputri, the daughter of the mountains, is worshipped on this day, symbolizing strength, patience, and devotion.
Who is Goddess Shailputri?
Goddess Shailputri is the embodiment of purity, grace, and tranquility. She is often depicted riding a bull, symbolizing strength and determination. Her vehicle, the bull, is also associated with Lord Shiva, her consort.
Navratri 2024 Day 1: Maa Shailputri Puja
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival | Navratri 2024 |
| Start Date | October 3, 2024 (Day 1) |
| Deity Worshipped | Maa Shailputri |
| Depiction | Riding a bull, holding a trident and lotus |
| Favorite Flower | Jasmine |
| Primary Mantra | ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः॥ Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah॥ |
| Number of Mantra Recitations | 108 times using Tulsi or Rudraksha mala |
| Offering (Bhog) | Sattvic food including buckwheat flour dishes, sabudana, singhara atta |
| Spiritual Importance | Governs the Moon, linked to emotional balance and mental peace |
| Chakra Represented | Root Chakra (Muladhara) |
Significance of Maa Shailputri
Maa Shailputri, also known as Parvati or Hemavati, is the first form of Goddess Durga. Her name, derived from the Sanskrit words “Shail” (mountain) and “Putri” (daughter), signifies her origin as the daughter of the Himalayas. She is depicted riding a bull, holding a trident in her right hand and a lotus in her left. Worshipping Maa Shailputri is believed to bring strength and stability, helping devotees overcome obstacles in their lives.
Rituals of Maa Shailputri Puja
- Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana): The first ritual of Navratri involves the establishment of a sacred Kalash (pot) filled with water, topped with mango leaves and a coconut. This marks the invocation of the Goddess and the beginning of the festival.
- Offering Flowers and Incense: Devotees offer jasmine flowers, which are considered Maa Shailputri’s favorite. Lighting incense sticks and diyas purifies the environment, creating a serene and spiritual ambiance.
- Reciting Mantras: Mantras play a crucial role in the puja. The primary mantra for worshipping Maa Shailputri is:
ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः॥ Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah॥This mantra is recited 108 times using a Tulsi or Rudraksha mala to invoke the Goddess’s blessings. - Offering Bhog: Devotees prepare sattvic (pure) food and offer it as bhog to Maa Shailputri. Common offerings include dishes made from buckwheat flour, sabudana, and singhara atta, along with fruits and dairy products.
- Performing Aarti: The puja concludes with the aarti, a ritual of waving lighted wicks before the deity, accompanied by devotional songs. This is considered highly auspicious and brings a sense of completion to the worship.
Mantra for Maa Shailputri
The following mantra is chanted during the puja:
- ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः॥ Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah॥
Importance of Worshipping Maa Shailputri
Worshipping Maa Shailputri on the first day of Navratri is believed to purify the mind and body, setting a positive tone for the rest of the festival. She governs the Moon, which influences emotions and mental balance. Devotees seek her blessings to overcome any malefic effects of the Moon in their horoscopes. Additionally, Maa Shailputri represents the Root Chakra, and meditating on this day helps in grounding and stabilizing one’s energy.
You Learn
The first day of Navratri dedicated to Maa Shailputri is a time for devotees to connect with their inner strength and seek the Goddess’s blessings for a prosperous and obstacle-free life. As the festival progresses, each day brings new opportunities for spiritual growth and devotion, culminating in the grand celebration of Dussehra.
FAQs about Navratri 2024 Day 1: Maa Shailputri Puja
1. Who is Maa Shailputri?
Maa Shailputri is the daughter of the Himalayas and the first form of Goddess Durga, symbolizing strength and purity.
2. When does Navratri 2024 start?
Navratri 2024 begins on October 3, 2024.
3. What is the significance of worshipping Maa Shailputri?
Worshipping Maa Shailputri brings strength, stability, and emotional balance.
4. What is the main mantra for Maa Shailputri puja?
The main mantra is “ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः” (Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah).
5. What offerings are made to Maa Shailputri?
Devotees offer jasmine flowers, sattvic food like buckwheat flour dishes, and fruits.
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