By Ardhu 
Table of Contents
Maa Chandraghanta, the third form of Goddess Durga, is worshiped on the third day of Navratri. Her name, “Chandraghanta,” refers to the crescent moon she wears on her forehead, which resembles a bell (ghanta). This form of the Goddess represents bravery, peace, and strength, with a focus on destroying evil and protecting her devotees. She is depicted riding a tiger, symbolizing her courage, with ten hands holding weapons like the trident, mace, and sword.
Maa Chandraghanta is known for her power to ward off evil, bestowing her devotees with a calm and fearless mind. Worshiping her on the third day of Navratri helps bring peace and clarity, while also boosting inner strength and spiritual energy.
Cultural and Religious Significance:
Maa Chandraghanta represents the Manipura Chakra, which governs courage, transformation, and self-confidence. Her fierce appearance symbolizes the fight against injustice, and she blesses her devotees with the strength to overcome obstacles and negativity. She also brings harmony and tranquility, making her the protector of her followers.
In mythology, Maa Chandraghanta assumed this form after her marriage to Lord Shiva. When Lord Shiva arrived for the wedding in a terrifying form, it was she who calmed him and brought peace to the situation. Her worship signifies the balance between ferocity and grace, guiding devotees toward righteous action without losing peace of mind.
Festival Dates and Key Events:
- Date: 5th October 2024
- Important Rituals: The day begins with early morning prayers, offerings, and a focus on awakening inner strength. Many devotees continue fasting to purify their bodies and minds.
- Mahurat for Puja: Perform the Maa Chandraghanta puja between 8 AM to 11 AM, as this mid-morning period is considered most auspicious for invoking her blessings.
Preparations for the Festival:
- Home and Personal Preparations: Clean the house thoroughly and decorate the puja space with orange or yellow flowers, symbolizing energy and strength. Wear fresh, bright-colored clothes like yellow or golden to enhance the vibrational energy of the day.
- Significance of Items: Offerings to Maa Chandraghanta include red apples, foxnut (makhana) custard, and sweets made with milk. Ringing a bell during the puja is considered highly auspicious, as the sound signifies the removal of negative energies and the arrival of blessings.
How to Perform the Puja:
- Puja Setup:
- Required Items:
- Yellow or orange flowers (symbolizing courage)
- Incense sticks and dhoop
- A lit diya (oil lamp)
- Red apples and sweets made with milk
- A bell for ringing during the aarti
- Arrange these items on a clean altar with an image or idol of Maa Chandraghanta. Light the diya and incense to cleanse and purify the atmosphere.
- Required Items:
- Steps to Perform Puja:
- Cleansing the space: Begin by purifying the surroundings with water and incense. Devotees should bathe and wear clean clothes, preferably yellow or golden, symbolizing energy and prosperity.
- Offering and Aarti: Place yellow or orange flowers and sweets on the altar. Ring the bell and chant the following mantra 108 times to invoke Maa Chandraghanta’s blessings:
Mantra:
पिण्डजप्रवरारूढा चण्डकोपास्त्रकेर्युता। प्रसादं तनुते मह्यं चन्द्रघण्टेति विश्रुता॥
"Pindjapravararudha Chandakopastrakeryutaa, Prasadan Tanute Mahyan Chandraghanteti Vishruta"
- Focus on the Manipura Chakra: As you chant, focus on the area around the navel, visualizing a yellow lotus with ten petals. This represents the Manipura Chakra, the seat of power and transformation. Visualize the energy of Maa Chandraghanta activating this chakra, filling you with strength and courage.
- Puja Conclusion:
- Offering Prasad: After the mantra chanting and aarti, offer the red apples and sweets as prasad. Distribute the prasad to family members and seek Maa Chandraghanta’s blessings for courage, peace, and inner strength.
Significance of Rituals and Traditions:
Maa Chandraghanta’s worship is especially significant for those seeking to overcome fear and anxiety. Her fierce form riding the tiger represents strength and protection, while the ringing of the bell during her puja symbolizes the removal of evil forces and negativity. The Manipura Chakra, which she governs, is linked to personal power and transformation, making her worship essential for those looking to boost confidence and strength.
Fasting on this day is also a key tradition, as it purifies the body and mind, helping devotees focus on their spiritual practices. Her blessings bring clarity, calm, and the courage to face life’s challenges.
Do’s and Don’ts:
- Key Practices to Follow:
- Wear bright colors like yellow or golden, symbolizing strength and energy.
- Use a bell during the aarti, as its sound is believed to invoke Maa Chandraghanta’s blessings and dispel negative energies.
- Continue fasting or observe a simple diet to maintain a focused and calm mind.
- Practices to Avoid:
- Avoid indulging in negative thoughts, anger, or confrontations, as this contradicts the peace and harmony Maa Chandraghanta promotes.
- Refrain from eating tamasic foods (heavy, spicy, or processed) that could interfere with the day’s spiritual significance.
Conclusion:
Worshiping Maa Chandraghanta on the third day of Navratri instills fearlessness, courage, and inner peace in devotees. Her blessings help dispel negativity and bring clarity to the mind, enabling individuals to take righteous action in their lives. By performing her puja with devotion and purity, devotees are empowered to face challenges with grace and strength.
May Maa Chandraghanta bless you with courage, peace, and the strength to overcome all obstacles on your spiritual journey.