Introduction:
The celebration of Navratri, with its focus on different facets of the divine feminine, is a beautiful and spiritually enriching tradition. Each day of Navratri holds unique significance, and worshipping Goddess Chandraghanta on the third day can inspire us to face life’s challenges with courage and fearlessness. It’s a reminder that, just like the moon’s serene glow, we can find inner strength and tranquility even in the face of adversity.
Importance of Third Day (Tritiya Tithi) Of Navratri
The third day of Navratri, often referred to as “Tritiya,” holds special significance in the Hindu festival of Navratri. This day is dedicated to worshipping the Goddess Chandraghanta, an incarnation of Devi Durga. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of the third day of Navratri:
1. Worship of Goddess Chandraghanta: On the third day, devotees offer their prayers and devotion to Goddess Chandraghanta, who is depicted with a half-moon (Chandra) shaped like a bell (Ghanta) on her forehead. This symbolizes bravery and fearlessness.
2. Symbolism of Courage: Chandraghanta is known for her extreme courage and is considered to be the embodiment of bravery. Worshipping her on this day is believed to instill a sense of fearlessness and strength in the devotees.
3. Color and Offering: The color associated with the third day of Navratri is grey. Devotees typically wear grey-colored attire and offer grey flowers to the Goddess as part of their prayers.
4. Spiritual Significance: Navratri is a period of spiritual growth and self-reflection. The worship of Chandraghanta on the third day signifies the importance of overcoming fear, negativity, and self-doubt on the path of self-realization.
5. Celebrating the Divine Feminine: Navratri, in its entirety, is a celebration of the divine feminine energy, and each day represents a different aspect of the Goddess. On the third day, devotees connect with the Goddess’s brave and courageous nature.
6. Traditional Rituals: Devotees perform aarti (ritual of offering light) and sing bhajans (devotional songs) dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta. They also recite mantras and seek her blessings for protection and strength.
7. Prayers for Well-Being: It is common for people to seek protection from negativity and harm and to pray for the well-being of their family and loved ones on this day.
Legend of Chandraghanta:
Parvati, who was initially a maiden named Sati, had a deep devotion to Lord Shiva. She underwent rigorous penance to gain Shiva’s affection and marry him. Her deep meditation and austerities earned her the favor of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. She ultimately won Shiva’s heart, and they got married.
However, a great turmoil arose when Sati’s father, Daksha, performed a grand yagna (sacrificial ritual) and did not invite Shiva. Sati, out of love and devotion for her husband, went to her father’s yagna, despite Shiva’s disapproval. During the yagna, Daksha insulted Shiva. Unable to bear the humiliation, Sati self-immolated in the sacrificial fire.
Shiva was plunged into deep grief and anger upon hearing of Sati’s sacrifice. He began the cosmic dance of destruction known as the Tandava. To save the world from the consequences of Shiva’s anger, the gods sought help from Goddess Parvati.
Parvati, in her warrior form, assumed the name Chandraghanta. She is depicted as a goddess riding a tiger and with a crescent moon on her forehead. She wore a bell-shaped ornament (ghanta) around her neck, which is why she is called Chandraghanta.
Chandraghanta is the embodiment of grace, bravery, and serenity, as she represents Parvati’s dual nature – the loving wife and the fierce warrior. She eventually calmed Lord Shiva and helped restore peace in the universe.
Chandraghanta is worshipped on the third day of Navratri, the nine-night festival dedicated to the divine feminine, for her protective and courageous attributes. Her story symbolizes the importance of standing up for what one believes in and the strength that can be found within one’s dual nature, both gentle and fierce.
The story of Chandraghanta is a beautiful representation of the multifaceted nature of the divine and the strength that can be drawn from it. It teaches us the importance of resilience and balance in our lives, especially in the face of challenges and adversity. The symbolism of the crescent moon and the bell-shaped ornament adds depth to the narrative, reminding us of the power of grace and courage, even in the most trying times.
Spiritual Practices and Vedic Rituals for the Third Day of Navratri:
Navratri is a significant Hindu festival that spans nine nights, celebrating the divine feminine energy. On the third day of Navratri, the focus is on worshiping Goddess Chandraghanta. Here are some spiritual practices and Vedic rituals for this day:
Morning Rituals:
1. Purification: Start your day with a bath and wear clean, preferably white or light-colored clothing.
2. Altar Setup: Create a sacred space or altar with images or idols of Goddess Chandraghanta, along with other deities and sacred items.
3. Prayers and Mantras: Recite mantras dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta, such as “Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah” or any other mantras associated with the Goddess.
Offerings:
1. Milk: Offer milk to the Goddess as it is believed to please her.
2. Flowers: Decorate the idol or image with fresh flowers, especially jasmine or marigold.
3. Incense and Diya: Light incense and a Diya (lamp) to create a divine atmosphere.
Meditation and Contemplation:
1. Meditation: Spend some time meditating on the qualities and attributes of Goddess Chandraghanta. Focus on her courage, grace, and compassion.
2. Contemplation: Reflect on the significance of the third day of Navratri and how it relates to your life. Consider the aspects of your life that require inner strength and how the Goddess can guide you.
Fasting:
Many devotees fast on Navratri, especially during the first three days. You can choose to fast if it aligns with your beliefs and health.
Evening Rituals:
1. Aarti: Perform an aarti in the evening, singing songs and hymns dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta.
2. Community Gatherings: Participate in Satsang or gatherings where devotional songs and prayers are sung.
Fasting and prayers during Navratri are a way to cleanse the body and mind and connect with the divine. It’s a beautiful tradition that allows individuals to focus on their spiritual journey. Remember that these practices can be adapted to your personal beliefs and comfort level. Please feel free to incorporate these rituals into your spiritual practice and adapt them as needed to align with your holistic and spiritual guidance approach. Is there anything specific you’d like to know or discuss regarding these rituals, or do you have any other questions related to spirituality or holistic health do not hesitate we are just a call away.
About Author
Spiritual Coach Anupriya is a seasoned holistic health coach based in Dehradun, India. With expertise in Astrology, Tarot Card Reading, Reiki Healing, and more, she guides seekers towards holistic well-being. Her profound knowledge in psychology enhances her mission of offering spiritual guidance and healing to those in need. She’s the founder of DISHA Academy which is part of Divine Instrument.
