Thu Oct 03 01:17:43 UTC 2024: ## Navratri 2024 Begins: Celebrate with Kalash Sthapana and Worship Maa Shailputri

**New Delhi, India** – The nine-day festival of Shardiya Navratri will commence on October 3, 2024, with the auspicious Kalash Sthapana ritual dedicated to Maa Shailputri, the first avatar of Maa Durga. This year, the festival will continue until October 12, marking the celebration of nine forms of the goddess, collectively known as Navadurga.

The first day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Shailputri, symbolizing divine energy and spiritual awakening. Depicted riding a Nandi bull, holding a lotus flower and a trident, she represents the power of nature and embodies the essence of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

**Auspicious Timing for Kalash Sthapana:**

The most auspicious time for performing the Kalash Sthapana ritual on October 3 is between 6:15 AM and 7:22 AM, according to Drik Panchang.

**Detailed Puja Vidhi:**

To invoke the blessings of Maa Durga, follow these steps:

* **Purification:** Begin by purifying the puja area with Gangajal (holy water) to cleanse the space.
* **Swastika Symbol:** Draw a swastika symbol on a wooden chowki (platform) using vermilion or turmeric.
* **Kalash Placement:** Place a Kalash (holy urn) filled with pure water (preferably Gangajal) on the chowki.
* **Elements of Abundance:** Include mango leaves, a betel nut, durva grass, and coins in the Kalash to signify prosperity.
* **Coconut Symbolism:** Wrap a coconut in red cloth representing divine feminine energy and place it atop the Kalash.
* **Idol or Picture:** Place an idol or picture of Maa Durga beside the Kalash. Dress her in a red or pink chunri.
* **Offerings:** Present offerings of Akshat (unbroken rice) and flowers as symbols of purity and devotion.
* **Akhand Jyoti:** Light an Akhand Jyoti (sacred lamp) using ghee, symbolizing the eternal flame of devotion.
* **Mantra Recitation:** Chant mantras dedicated to Maa Shailputri, seeking her blessings for peace, strength, and spiritual awakening.
* **Worship:** Conclude the puja by worshipping Maa Shailputri, seeking her grace for prosperity and the removal of obstacles.

**Mantra for Maa Shailputri:**

* **Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Shailaputri Rupena Samsthita Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah**
* **Vande Vanchhitalabhaya Chandrardhakritashekharam। Vrisharudham Shuladharam Shailaputrim Yashasvinim॥**

By performing this detailed Kalash Sthapana puja, devotees invite the divine presence of Maa Durga into their homes for the duration of the Navratri festival.

**Stay tuned for more updates on Navratri celebrations and the upcoming days dedicated to the other forms of Maa Durga.**

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