Sun Mar 30 01:20:00 UTC 2025: **Chaitra Navratri Celebrations Begin**
NEW DELHI – The nine-day Hindu festival of Chaitra Navratri commenced on March 30th, 2025, according to the Hindu Panchang. Devotees observe the festival by worshipping the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The first day is dedicated to Goddess Shailputri, the daughter of King Himavan.
Shailputri, revered as the consort of Lord Shiva, is worshipped through rituals including the establishment of a Kalash (holy pot) in homes. Traditional practices involve wearing red clothing, offering red or white flowers and fruits, and lighting a ghee lamp before her image. Reciting the mantra “Om Dum Durgay Namah” and the Durga Saptashati are also common. Offerings of a clove garland, and a betel leaf with cloves, betel nut, and sugar crystals are believed to fulfill wishes.
Specific remedies are suggested for this first day, including wearing red clothing, offering red flowers and fruits, a copper coin, and chanting the mantra “Om Dum Durgay Namah” or “Om Shailputraye Namah.” Chanting the Surya Mantra (“Om Hram Hrim Hraum Sah Suryaya Namah”) at least three malas is recommended to strengthen the Sun’s influence in one’s horoscope, followed by wearing a copper ring. The worship is believed to activate the Muladhara chakra, leading to spiritual progress. The festival is observed with the hope of overcoming obstacles and negativity.
First Piper 