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How to Perform Navratri Durga Puja?

For Hindus, Navratri is considered a vibrant as well as auspicious festival of nine days that is dedicated to worshiping the nine avatars or forms of the goddess Durga with great enthusiasm and devotion. During these sacred nine days, devotees commonly engage in activities like fasting, prayers, as well as various other rituals to seek blessings, strength, and prosperity from goddess Durga. Nevertheless, performing a Navratri puja at your home is not just a religious activity, as it is also considered as one of the best ways to feel more connected with your cultural roots, even if you’re living away from your hometown, like in the USA, Canada, etc.

Thus, whether it’s your first time performing the Navratri puja or you have been practicing it for years, here in this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of how to perform this puja in the comfort of your home without missing any of the traditions.

What is Navratri?

In Hindi, Navratri means ‘nine nights’ which is one of the many auspicious festivals celebrated across India to worship the nine forms or avatars of goddess Durga in order to seek her blessings. According to the Hindu calendar, the Navratri comes two times in a year, once in the Chaitra month to celebrate the Hindu new year and the other in the Ashwin month to celebrate Dussehra, which signifies the winning of Lord Rama against Ravana.

Nevertheless, each day of the Navratri is dedicated to one form of the goddess, which signifies her specific powers. Thus, Navratri is also considered as a season of spiritual cleansing as well as seeking favors or healings for health, wealth, and peace from the goddess.

Click to view this 13″ Brass Durga Statue

Guide to Perform Navratri Puja at Home

1. Preparation for Navratri Puja

It is considered as very important to prepare your mind, body, as well as home before starting the Navratri puja, as cleanliness and purity are the keys to beginning the rituals.

Clean Your Home:

Before beginning the puja, it is mandatory to thoroughly clean the area where you plan to perform the puja. This space should be free from any potential distractions in order to make you solely focus on your puja. Therefore, it is advised to create a small space or corner where you can place the idols or pictures and all the other necessary items to worship the goddess Durga without any disturbances during these nine days.

Set Up the Puja Altar:

Firstly, place the pictures of idols of goddess Durga or any of her nine forms on the altar.

Now, decorate the altar with beautiful fresh flowers, incense as per your liking and also a lamp that directly faces the direction of goddess Durga idols. You can also leave some space on the altar to offer fruits, sweets, etc. to the goddess during these days.

Now, place a small Kalash (pot) filled with water, add a few drops of Ganga Jal (Ganga water) and place a coin in it. Then, put a coconut on it and decorate the entire pot by partially inserting Ashok leaves (Saraca indica leaves) in it.

2. Sankalpa (Vow)

Once you set up your altar, then sit down with a relaxed mind on the mat to take the Sankalpa (vow or commitment). It is taken to perform the puja wholeheartedly as well as to perform fasting and other rituals with sincerity.

How to Take Sankalpa:

Face the east or north direction in the space you have created for the puja and join your hands in a prayer position.

Now, chant the mantra, “Om aim hreem kleem chamundaye vicche.” for as many times as you can.

Now, meditate on goddess Durga and express your wish to perform the puja wholeheartedly for the nine days with sincerity.

3. Invoke Goddess Durga

Whenever you’re done with the Sankalpa, then it’s time to invite the goddess Durga into your home to stay there during these nine days. This ritual begins with ghata sthapana or kalash sthapna (pot installation) in another pot, which is filled with soil and some barley seeds sprinkled on it.

Kalash Sthapana (Pot Installation):

Firstly, decorate the coconut, which you have placed upon the kalash (pot) previously, with turmeric and kumkum powder and then place it in the pot of soil.

Now, light the ghee lamp and some incense sticks to invoke the presence of goddess Durga into your home. You can also offer fresh flowers, fruits, sweets, etc. to the deity and chant the durga mantras with full concentration, like “om dum durgayei namaha….” for 108 times if possible.

4. Chanting Mantras and Reciting Durga Saptashati

Chanting the mantras of goddess Durga and reciting scriptures like Durga saptashati or Devi mahatmya are considered as a very important part of the Navratri puja in order to get the blessings of the goddess Durga. Therefore, it is highly advised that you should recite at least a few chapters every day or you can also play the recorded chants if you don’t know the verses. You can chant mantras like “Ya Devi Sarva bhuteshu…” to offer your prayers to the goddess in order to seek protection as well as blessings from her.

5. Offer Bhog (Food Offering)

It is considered as very important to offer bhog during the Navratri to the goddess Durga. You can also offer different foods on each day of the Navratri according to the specific preferences of the goddess for that particular day. For example, you can offer pure milk-based products such as kheer (rice pudding) to goddess Shailputri on day-1, sugar and fruits like apples and bananas to goddess Brahmacharini on day-2 and so on. Once you offer the food to the goddess, then you can share it with your family members as a prasad in order to share the blessings of the goddess among them too.

6. Aarti and Devotional Songs

Performing the aartis, which are often called as devotional songs, are considered as one of the most blissful parts of the Navratri puja and they are performed two times a day, usually once in the morning and once in the evening.

To perform the aarti, you should light a camphor in a vessel and move it in a circular motion in front of the deity while signing the aarti, like “ambe tu jagdambe kali, jai durge khappar vali…” which is also considered as a very popular aarti among the devotees to seek the blessings of goddess Durga.

7. Navratri Fasting

Taking a fast during the Navratri is considered as one of the most important parts of the entire festival, as it is believed to cleanse both your body as well as your soul. This practice also represents your devotion as well as self-discipline to the goddess Durga, which can be a way to enhance your spiritual connection with the divine. There are various ways in which the devotees can choose to fast, like:

Full Fast: In this practice, the devotees avoid consuming any type of food throughout the day. Some devotees may only consume water, while others allow for light liquids like coconut water or fresh fruit juices according to their likings as well as keeping their health in mind.

Partial Fast: This fasting involves eating certain foods that are often called as ‘vrat-friendly’ and don’t break your fast, like fruits, dairy products, and special grains like kuttu ka atta (buckwheat flour), singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour), or sabudana khichdi (tapioca). This practice is very common among devotees, as it makes the nine days of the fasting quite manageable without compromising on their health.

8. Kanya Pujan (Worshiping of Young Girls)

It is considered as a mandatory tradition to perform Kanya pujan, in which worship of nine young girls, usually below the age of 11-12 years, is performed. This ritual represents the nine forms or avatars of goddess Durga worshiped on the Astami (eighth day) or Navami (ninth day of the Navratri).

How to Perform Kanya Pujan:

Firstly, wash the feet of the young girls, then serve them a meal that usually contains halwa, puri, and chana. You can also give them fresh clothes or gifts as per your liking to welcome them into your home on the auspicious day.

This Kanya pujan is also considered as a symbol of worshiping the goddess Durga in her young forms, as it is believed to bring blessings of both health and prosperity into your home.

9. Visarjan (Concluding the Puja)

The Navratri puja ends with the final rituals of visarjan (immersion) of the idols of goddess Durga in the ponds or any other suitable place in order to offer her a farewell. It is also performed to thank the goddess for her blessings as well as to pray to her to return next year with the same joy and prosperity. Then, you can either water the plants with the kalash water or sprinkle it into your home in order to retain a positive vibe throughout the day.

The Navratri puja is considered as an auspicious journey of spirituality, self-discipline, as well as devotion to the goddess to show us the right path and also to seek blessings of great health and prosperity from her. Nevertheless, now you may be able to perform these rituals without any hindrances in the comfort of your home by following the above steps in order to stay connected to your cultural roots as well as to seek the blessings of goddess Durga.

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Navratri Rituals, Traditions & the Nine Forms of Goddess Durga

Navratri is one of the most important Hindu festivals that is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. The word “Navratri” is derived from Sanskrit and it loosely translates to – “nine nights.” This means that this festival spans nine days and during these days the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped.

Navratri holds a lot of spiritual, cultural, and social significance. It marks the victory of good over evil and celebrates the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. This festival also encourages people to reflect on inner strength, positivity, and devotion. In this blog, we will explore the rituals, traditions, and the nine forms of Goddess Durga that are celebrated with great excitement during Navratri.

Navratri Rituals & Traditions

Navratri rituals are deeply rooted in devotion and faith. They vary slightly from region to region. But all these have some common practices that are followed across the country.

Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana)

Navratri begins with Ghatasthapana. This stage usually marks the start of the festival. A pot or kalash is placed at a sacred spot in the house that basically symbolizes the presence of the Goddess. The pot is then filled with water and topped with a coconut. It is then surrounded by mango leaves. This ritual basically invites Goddess Durga to reside in the home for the nine days of the festival.

Fasting

Fasting is a key part of Navratri. Many people observe a fast during all nine days. On the other hand, some people fast only on the first and last day. Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind which then further prepares the devotees for divine blessings. During the fast, foods like fruits, dairy, and special grains are consumed. Moreover, one has to avoid regular grains like wheat and rice.

Offering Prayers and Aarti

Prayers are offered to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga on every day of Navratri. Devotees recite Durga Saptashati which is a sacred text that describes the battles of the Goddess and victories over evil. On the same note, an aarti which is a devotional song is typically sung in her honor. People also light lamps and offer flowers, sweets, and fruits to the Goddess.

Garba and Dandiya

In northern and western regions of India and especially in Gujarat a lot of people celebrate Navratri by performing traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya. These dances are performed in circles around a lamp or an idol of the Goddess. The rhythm of the music usually comes along with the dance. Thus, symbolizing the energy and vibrancy of life.

Kanya Pujan

Many families around the globe perform Kanya Pujan on the eighth or ninth day of Navratri. This is the day when young girls (representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga) are worshiped. The girls are invited to the home where their feet are washed and they are given food, gifts, and blessings. In this way, this ritual usually emphasizes the purity and power of women.

Click to view this 75″ Durga Scene Sculpture

The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga

Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga which is known as Navadurga. These forms represent various aspects of the divine feminine and each one has its significance in Hindu mythology.

1. Shailaputri

The first day is dedicated to Goddess Shailaputri. Goddess Shailaputri is regarded as the daughter of the mountains. She represents strength, calm, and devotion. She is often depicted riding a bull while holding a trident and a lotus.

2. Brahmacharini

On the second day, Goddess Brahmacharini is worshiped. She is the form of Goddess Durga who performed intense penance to obtain Lord Shiva as her consort. Her simple appearance symbolizes discipline, virtue, and determination.

3. Chandraghanta

The third day celebrates Goddess Chandraghanta. She wears a half-moon on her forehead which eventually translates to what the name means. She rides a tiger and represents courage and grace. She is invoked to ward off evil and bring peace and prosperity.

4. Kushmanda

Goddess Kushmanda is worshiped on the fourth day. This form is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile. She symbolizes creativity and the power to bring light to darkness.

5. Skandamata

The fifth day is dedicated to Goddess Skandamata who is also regarded as the mother of Lord Kartikeya (also known as Skanda). She is depicted holding her son in her lap and riding a lion. Skandamata is associated with nurturing, protection, and wisdom.

6. Katyayani

Goddess Katyayani is worshiped on the sixth day. She is known as the warrior goddess who destroyed the demon Mahishasura. She represents courage and the ability to overcome obstacles.

7. Kalaratri

The seventh day is dedicated to Goddess Kalaratri which is the fiercest form of Durga. She has a dark complexion and rides a donkey. She is a protector and is invoked to destroy ignorance and darkness while having a fearsome appearance.

8. Mahagauri

On the eighth day, Goddess Mahagauri is worshiped. She is fair and serene, symbolizing purity, forgiveness, and calmness. She is often depicted riding a bull and holding a trident and a drum.

9. Siddhidatri

The ninth day is dedicated to Goddess Siddhidatri who grants siddhis (spiritual powers) to her devotees. She is believed to be the one who completes the universe. Siddhidatri is depicted sitting on a lotus while bestowing blessings and powers.

Conclusion

Navratri is a festival that celebrates the divine feminine energy in its many forms. Through the devotion to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, devotees reflect on the importance of strength, compassion, and spirituality in their lives. Each day brings a deeper connection to these values. Thus, reminding people of the ever-present power of good over evil. Hence, Navratri serves as a time for both celebration and introspection as one follows these rituals and honors the Goddess.

Navratri aarti and Mantras

Navratri is one of the most auspicious festivals in Hindu culture. This is because it is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. The word “Navratri” translates to “nine nights”. During this time, the devotees engage in prayers, fasting, and perform various types of rituals. They do all this to seek the blessings of the goddess. One of the central aspects of Navratri is the recitation of aartis and mantras. All the mantras are believed to invoke the divine energy of the goddess. Thereby, bringing peace, prosperity, and protection to the devotees.

In this blog, we will be generally looking at how these spiritual practices continue to play an important role in celebrating Navratri in 2024.

Importance of Aartis and Mantras in Navratri

Aartis and mantras are an integral part of Hindu rituals. These Aaartis and mantras become especially important to the people who celebrate Navratri as it is an artistic way of expressing their love and gratitude toward the goddess. So, Aartis are devotional songs that are generally sung in praise of the deity. These are then accompanied by the waving of a lit lamp or “diya”. This diya is lit in a circular motion in front of the idol or image of the goddess. This act is symbolic of offering light and pure devotion to the divine.

Mantras, on the other hand, are sacred chants. These chants are believed to hold spiritual energy and have the power to invoke the presence of the goddess. In this way, reciting these mantras is thought to connect devotees with the divine. Hence, promoting mental peace, spiritual awakening, and divine blessings.

During Navratri, each day is dedicated to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Each form has a specific aarti and mantra which is associated with her. This then further enhances the spiritual experience of devotees. Thereby, bringing them closer to the goddess.

Navratri Aarti

Aarti is performed at the beginning and end of prayers during Navratri. The most popular aartis recited during Navratri traditions and rituals include the following:

Jai Ambe Gauri

“Jai Ambe Gauri” is a famous aarti that is sung in praise of Goddess Durga during Navratri. The hymn describes the various forms of Durga like Gauri which is the goddess of purity and light. It speaks of the immense power and grace of the goddess. In addition to this, this also summarizes how she helps her devotees overcome difficulties and challenges. Hence, singing this aarti is believed to bring peace, harmony, and strength to the household.

Verse 1

जय अम्बे गौरी, मैया जय श्यामा गौरी।

तुमको निशदिन ध्यावत, हरि ब्रह्मा शिवरी॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Jai Ambe Gauri, Maiya Jai Shyama Gauri.

Tumako Nishadin Dhyavat, Hari Bramha Shivari.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

Hail Mother Ambe, Hail Mother Parvati (Gauri).

You are meditated upon day and night by Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Lord Shiva.

Hail Mother Ambe.

Verse 2

मांग सिंदूर विराजत, टीको मृगमद को।

उज्ज्वल से दोउ नैना, चंद्रवदन नीको॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Mang Sindur Virajat, Tiko Mrigamad Ko.

Ujjval Se Dou Naina, Chandravadan Niko.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

On your forehead is a mark of vermilion, with a mark of musk.

Your eyes are bright and brilliant, your face is as beautiful as the moon.

Verse 3

कनक समान कलेवर, रक्तांबर राजे।

रक्तपुष्प गल माला, कंठन पर साजे॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Kanak Saman Kalevar, Raktambar Raje,

Raktpushp Gal Mala, Kanthan Par Saje.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

Your golden-hued body is splendidly draped in red attire.

A garland of red flowers around your neck looks beautiful in full bloom.

Verse 4

केहरी वाहन राजत, खड्ग खप्पर धारी।

सुर-नर-मुनिजन सेवत, तिनके दुखहारी॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Kehari Vahan Rajat, Khadag Khappar Dhari,

Sur-Nar-Munijan Sevat, Tinake Dukhahari.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

You ride a majestic lion and carry a sword and a skull cup.

You remove the suffering of gods, humans, and sages alike.

Verse 5

कानन कुंडल शोभित, नासाग्रे मोती।

कोटिक चंद्र दिवाकर, राजत सम ज्योति॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Kaanan Kundal Shobhit, Nasagre Moti,

Kotik Chandr Divakar, Rajat Sam Jyoti.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

You are decorated with earrings and pearls on your nose,

You shine like a thousand moons and suns.

Verse 6

शुम्भ-निशुम्भ बिदारे, महिषासुर घाती।

धूम्र विलोचन नैना, निशदिन मदमाती॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Shumbh-Nishumbh Bidare, Mahishasur Ghati,

Dhumr Vilochan Naina, Nishadin Madamati.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

You destroyed the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha, and slew Mahishasura.

Your eyes radiate anger and fury day and night.

Verse 7

चंड-मुंड संहारे, शोनित बीज हरे।

मधु-कैटभ दोउ मारे, सुर भयहीन करे॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Chand-Mund Sanhare, Shonit Bij Hare,

Madhu-Kaitabh Dou Mare, Sur Bhayahin Kare.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

You killed the demons Chanda and Munda, and vanquished Shonit Bij.

Madhu and Kaitabh were slain by you, bringing peace to the gods.

Verse 8

ब्रह्माणी, रुद्राणी, तुम कमला रानी।

आगम निगम बखानी, तुम शिव पटरानी॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Bramhani, Rudrani,Tum Kamala Rani,

Agam Nigam Bakhani,Tum Shiv Patarani.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

You are the consort of Lord Brahma, Lord Rudra and Lord Shiva

The vedas and shastras describe you as Goddess Parvati, the beloved wife of Lord Shiva.

Verse 9

चौंसठ योगिनी मंगल गावत, नृत्य करत भैरु।

बाजत ताल मृदंगा, अरु बाजत डमरु॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Chausath Yogini Mangal Gavat,Nritya Karat Bhairu,

Bajat Tal Mridanga,Aru Baajat Damaru.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

64 yogis praise and glorify you.

While Bhairava dances to the sound of the Mridanga and Damaru.

Verse 10

तुम ही जग की माता, तुम ही हो भारता।

भक्तन की दुख हर्ता, सुख सम्पत्ति करता॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Tum Hi Jag Ki Mata, Tum Hi Ho Bharata,

Bhaktan Ki Dukh Harta, Sukh Sampati Karta.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

You are the mother of the creation, and the one who sustains it

You take away your devotees’ sadness and grant prosperity and happiness.

Verse 11

भुजा चार अति शोभि, वरमुद्रा धारी।

मनवांछित फल पावत, सेवत नर नारी॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Bhuja Char Ati Shobhi,Varamudra Dhari,

Manvanchhit Fal Pavat,Sevat Nar Nari.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

Your 4 arms disclose your power, and one of your hands blesses us

Those women and men who worship you will have their wishes fulfilled.

Verse 12

कंचन थाल विराजत, अगर कपूर बाती।

श्री मालकेतु में राजत, कोटि रतन ज्योति॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Kanchan Thal Virajat, Agar Kapur Bati,

Shrimalaketu Mein Rajat, Koti Ratan Jyoti.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

Aloe and camphor have been lit and placed in a golden platter before you.

The flame echoes off you and looks like a million gems.

Verse 13

श्री अम्बेजी की आरती, जो कोई नर गावे।

कहत शिवानन्द स्वामी, सुख-सम्पत्ति पावे॥

ॐ जय अम्बे गौरी॥

Shri Ambeji Ki Arati, Jo Koi Nar Gave,

Kahat Shivanand Swami, Sukh-Sampatti Pave.

Om Jai Ambe Gauri.

Those who sing Ambeji’s aarti with devotion

Sage Shivanand says, will be blessed with happiness and wealth.

Click the image to view this Nepalese Brass Durga Statue

Navratri Mantras

Mantras are another essential part of Navratri celebrations. The interesting part is that each of the mantras usually holds a very specific meaning and spiritual significance. Devotees chant mantras dedicated to the goddess to seek her divine blessings, protection, and inner strength. Reciting these mantras is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul. Thereby, bringing one closer to the divine presence of the goddess.

1. Om Dum Durgayei Namaha

This is one of the most powerful mantras chanted during Navratri. It is a simple yet effective mantra. The meaning of the mantra is “Salutations to the one who provides protection from all negative energies.” Devotees recite this mantra generally in order to seek strength, courage, and protection from the goddess. This means that this type of matra can easily help you during difficult times.

2. Ya Devi Sarva Bhuteshu

This mantra is recited to praise the omnipresence of the Goddess Durga in all living beings. The chant starts with – “Ya Devi Sarva Bhuteshu Shakti Rupena Samsthita”. This typically means that “The goddess who is present in all beings as power, I bow to her repeatedly.” This mantra is a way to acknowledge the divine feminine energy that is present in the universe. Plus, it is often chanted in the morning and evening as part of Navratri prayers.

3. Sarva Mangala Mangalye

This is a popular mantra that is dedicated to Goddess Durga who is also known as Shakti or the one with a lot of power and strength. The chant goes – “Sarva Mangala Mangalye Shive Sarvatha Sadhike, Sharanye Tryambake Gauri Narayani Namostute.” It translates to – “The one who brings auspiciousness, who is the embodiment of Shiva, who grants all wishes, and who is the refuge of all, I bow to you, O Narayani.” Reciting this mantra during Navratri is believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and success.

4. Om Hreem Shreem Kleem Durgaayi Namaha

This mantra is chanted to invoke the blessings of the goddess for wealth, health, and protection. The vibrations of this specific mantra are believed to align the mind and body with positive energies. In this way, this mantra brings inner strength and removes any kind of negative influences. Therefore, chanting this mantra during Navratri is considered highly auspicious and spiritually uplifting.

5. Katyayani Mantra

The Katyayani mantra is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani who is one of the nine forms of Durga worshiped during Navratri. This mantra is particularly recited by those who are generally seeking marital harmony or those who are facing difficulties in relationships. The mantra goes, “Om Katyayani Mahamaye Mahayogini Adhiswara, Nand Gop Sutam Devi Patim Me Kuru Te Namah.” This chant is often recited on the sixth day of Navratri which is devoted to Goddess Katyayani.

The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga and Their Mantras

Each day of Navratri is associated with a different form of Goddess Durga. Moreover, each day has specific aartis and mantras that are dedicated to these forms.

Day 1 – Shailaputri:

This is the first form of Durga and is considered the daughter of the mountains. Aartis and mantras dedicated to Shailaputri are chanted to seek her blessings for peace and purity.

Mantras- ऊँ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah

Meaning: Salutations to Goddess Shailaputri, the daughter of the mountain.

This mantra is chanted to invoke the blessings of Maa Shailaputri for strength, stability, and protection from negative energies.

Day 2 – Brahmacharini:

On this day, devotees worship the goddess in her form of spiritual grace and purity. Aartis are performed to seek wisdom and knowledge.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी ब्रह्मचारिण्यै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Brahmacharinyai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Brahmacharini, the one who is the embodiment of austerity and devotion.

This mantra is chanted to invoke the blessings of Maa Brahmacharini for wisdom, self-discipline, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Day 3 – Chandraghanta:

This particular form is known for her bravery. Thus, this form of Durga is worshiped with aartis and mantras that can typically invoke strength and courage.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Chandraghanta, the one who brings peace and destroys evil forces.

This mantra is recited to seek the protection and blessings of Maa Chandraghanta. It invokes courage, fearlessness, and the power to overcome challenges in life.

Day 4 – Kushmanda:

Kushmanda is the goddess who is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile. Devotees perform aartis to seek her blessings for health and prosperity.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी कूष्माण्डायै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Kushmanda, the creator of the universe and the source of all energy.

This mantra is chanted to invoke Maa Kushmanda’s blessings for health, energy, and vitality. It is believed that chanting this mantra brings positive energy and success in all endeavors.

Day 5 –

Skandamata: This form is worshiped as the mother of Lord Kartikeya. The Aartis sung during this time should be technically dedicated to seeking maternal blessings and protection.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Skandamata, the mother of Lord Skanda, who blesses her devotees with love and protection.

This mantra is recited to invoke the blessings of Maa Skandamata for health, protection, and the well-being of one’s children.

Day 6 –

Katyayani: This kind of form is known for her warrior spirit. Therefore, aartis and mantras are chanted to seek her blessings for removing any kind of obstacles and bringing success.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी कात्यायन्यै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Katyayanyai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Katyayani, the one who bestows strength and victory upon her devotees.

This mantra is chanted to invoke the blessings of Maa Katyayani for courage, protection, and success in overcoming obstacles.

Day 7 – Kalaratri:

On this day, Goddess Durga is worshiped in her fiercest form. This further implies that the aartis are performed to seek protection from evil forces and negative energies.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी कालरात्र्यै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Kalaratryai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Kalaratri, the one who destroys evil and brings auspiciousness.

This mantra is chanted to invoke Maa Kalaratri’s protection and to remove fear, negativity, and evil from one’s life.

Day 8 – Mahagauri:

Aartis and mantras on this day focus on seeking purity and forgiveness from the goddess.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी महागौर्यै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Mahagauryai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Mahagauri, the one who bestows purity, peace, and spiritual enlightenment.

This mantra is recited to invoke the blessings of Maa Mahagauri for purity, wisdom, and inner peace.

Day 9 – Siddhidatri:

This is the final form of Durga. This form is needed as it is worshiped to attain spiritual enlightenment and divine wisdom.

Mantra- ऊँ देवी सिद्धिदात्र्यै नमः॥

Transliteration: Om Devi Siddhidatryai Namah

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Siddhidatri, the giver of Siddhis and divine powers.

This mantra is chanted to invoke the blessings of Maa Siddhidatri for attaining perfection, success, and spiritual knowledge.

Conclusion

Reciting aartis and mantras during Navratri is a way for devotees to express their devotion and gratitude to Goddess Durga. Aartis are a form of worship that allows devotees to connect with the divine through a particular type of song and prayer. On the other hand, Mantras serve as a tool for meditation and invoking divine energy. These spiritual practices help create a sacred atmosphere during this special festival. Hence, strengthening the bond between the devotee and the goddess.

Nepal Buying Trip 2024

In the Heart of Artistry

Walking the streets of Nepal is like taking a step back in time with its narrow streets and temples at every corner. I spend each day walking around, refreshing old relationships, and looking for new artisans to work with.

I’ve been sharing these special moments on our Instagram page. If you haven’t already, make sure to follow us @LotusSculpture for a daily dose of inspiration and a closer look at the wonders of Nepal.

Click the video below to watch the process of transforming plain copper statues into golden wonders.

Discovering this extraordinary Vajradharara statue was certainly a highlight of my trip. Crafted by not one, but five incredible master artisans whose talents know no bounds. Adorned with sapphire, coral, turquoise, lapis lazuli, and ruby stones, the statue is a kaleidoscope of meaning and beauty. Showcasing six months of dedication, the intricate detailing, hand-painting, and gold plating are a testament to the skill that thrives in Nepal.

Watch the video below to get an up-close look at this Nepalese Vajradhara statue and learn more about the process of creating such a masterpiece.

2024 Buying Trip – North India

Every January, I embark on my journey to curate the stunning statues you’ll see on Lotus Sculpture throughout the year. This year’s journey takes me through the heart of India and Nepal, and yes, those are the majestic Himalayas I’m glimpsing from my window. The sight of these towering mountains is incredibly humbling!

I invite you to stay connected for weekly updates on my journey! I’ll be sending out newsletters, to sum up my adventures, and you can also follow along daily on Instagram for a more up-close and personal experience of my travels.

My trip began in Delhi, with my good friend Piyush, and I’ve already picked out some amazing new designs, like this Nandi, to add to our collection soon.

You have spoken and I have listened!
I’m very excited to share something new with you all! After hearing your requests for smaller murtis for home altars, I’ve found a fantastic range of brass and copper murtis, all 6 inches or smaller. It’s great to know I can bring exactly what you’ve been looking for to your sacred spaces. Your feedback is invaluable, and I’m thrilled to respond to your needs!

I had the chance to learn extensively about the coloring process of our brass murtis. Vijay, who manages the coloring, guided me through the entire procedure, giving me an insightful look into this intricate art form.

Check out the video below for a closer look at the process:

My visit to the showroom had a charming local twist when a mongoose curiously sniffed me, revealing that a mongoose family calls this place home. I was told by Carol on Instagram that “At least you’ll be safe from cobras!”
Thank you Carol but I am more worried about Delhi Belly than cobras at this point.

Check out the Instagram post below to meet my new mongoose friend:

Next, my journey took me to Jaipur, the heartland of India’s white marble craftsmanship. Here, I had the pleasure of meeting Ajaysharma and his brother, Vijay, in their quaint studio. Ajay is a master at carving intricate white marble statues, while Vijay brings them to life with his skillful painting. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and brotherly collaboration, truly capturing the essence of Jaipur’s artistic spirit.

I have managed to visit quite a few temples since I arrived. I just can’t get enough of the unique sights and sounds each one has to offer. It’s so cool to soak up all that energy – It really makes you feel part of something bigger.

I have just arrived in Nepal and am looking forward to exploring the narrow streets of Patan in search of more statues!

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