Navratri holds immense religious significance in Hindu culture, celebrated with devotion across the country. This year, Navratri commenced on October 5, 2024, and the third day is dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta, the married form of Maa Parvati.
Significance of Maa Chandraghanta
Goddess Chandraghanta, the married form of Maa Parvati, adorns her forehead with a half-moon, known as Chandra, after her union with Lord Shiva. This is why she is revered as Maa Chandraghanta. She represents justice and discipline, with a radiant golden body, riding a lion symbolizing Dharma. She possesses ten hands, and three eyes, and wields a trishul, gada, sword, arrow, bow, kamandal, lotus, flower, and Japa mala. The Chandra (moon) is positioned on her forehead, taking the shape of a bell or ghanta. She is the ruler of the Sun.
According to astrology, those facing problems in their horoscope related to the Sun, or those lacking confidence and a harmonious relationship with their fathers, should fast on this day and worship Goddess Chandraghanta to mitigate their issues.
She signifies peace and is known to bless devotees with happiness, prosperity, and good health when worshipped with pure intentions. Her presence dispels negativity and purifies the aura.
Maa Chandraghanta Timing 2024
Maa Chandraghanta Puja will be celebrated on October 5, 2024, during Navratri. This day is dedicated to the worship of Maa Chandraghanta, known for bestowing courage and grace. Devotees are encouraged to wear the color grey, which symbolizes the strength and determination associated with this form of the Goddess.
Mantra of Maa Chandraghanta
ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः॥
Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah॥
Stotra of Maa Chandraghanta
आपदुध्दारिणी त्वंहि आद्या शक्तिः शुभपराम्।
अणिमादि सिद्धिदात्री चन्द्रघण्टे प्रणमाम्यहम्॥
चन्द्रमुखी इष्ट दात्री इष्टम् मन्त्र स्वरूपिणीम्।
धनदात्री, आनन्ददात्री चन्द्रघण्टे प्रणमाम्यहम्॥
नानारूपधारिणी इच्छामयी ऐश्वर्यदायिनीम्।
सौभाग्यारोग्यदायिनी चन्द्रघण्टे प्रणमाम्यहम्॥
Apaduddharini Tvamhi Adya Shaktih Shubhparam।
Animadi Siddhidatri Chandraghante Pranamamyaham॥
Chandramukhi Ishta Datri Ishtam Mantra Swarupinim।
Dhanadatri, Anandadatri Chandraghante Pranamamyaham॥
Nanarupadharini Ichchhamayi Aishwaryadayinim।
Saubhagyarogyadayini Chandraghante Pranamamyaham॥
Rituals: Maa Chandraghanta
On the third day of Navratri, rise early and don red attire. Worship Goddess Chandraghanta, recite the Durga Saptashati path and Durga Chalisa, and light a diya. Follow the Maa Chandraghanta Puja mantra: “Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah.”
History of Maa Chandraghanta
Maa Chandraghanta is the third form of Goddess Durga, worshipped on the third day of Navratri. Those who worship her on this day receive eternal energy and strength. She presides over the Manipura Chakra located at the navel, associated with the Sun. Maa Parvati aspired to wed Lord Shiva, who initially declined her proposal. Upon learning of Lord Shiva’s reluctance, Parvati embarked on a rigorous path of penance to fulfill her dream of marrying him. Lord Shiva, moved by her dedication, agreed to marry her.
Shiva assumed various forms, including those of other deities, ascetics, ghosts, and sages. He eventually appeared before King Himavat in his captivating divine form. Maa Parvati prayed for Shiva to return to his tranquil form, and she requested that he transform into a handsome young man. Impressed by her devotion, Menavati, Parvati’s mother, arranged for their marriage.
Devi Chandraghanta is the symbol of justice, with a golden-hued body, riding a lion representing ‘Dharma.’ She possesses ten arms and three eyes. On the third day of Navratri, a Sadhak’s contemplation enters the Manipura Chakra, enhancing foresight and leadership abilities. Maa Chandraghanta symbolizes the burning away of obstacles and unfailingly protects her devotees from malevolent forces.
Conclusion
On the third day of Navratri, we venerate Goddess Chandraghanta, known for vanquishing the adversaries of her devotees. Her blessings eradicate sins, suffering, and negative energies from the lives of her worshippers. She is also associated with the planet Shukra (Venus) and aids in maintaining harmony in the lives of all.
