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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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