Navratri, a vibrant nine-night festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is a time of immense devotion and celebration. The first day of Navratri, known as Navratri Day 1 or Pratipada, marks the beginning of this auspicious festival. On this day, devotees pay homage to Mata Shailputri, the embodiment of divine power and purity. In this article, we will delve into the intricate details of Mata Shailputri Puja Vidhi, the auspicious timing (Shubh Muhurat), the potent Mantra, the soul-stirring Arati, and the delectable Bhog offerings that make this day truly special.
Sharadiya Navratri holds a distinctive and profound significance within the realm of Hinduism. These days are believed to carry a unique divine energy, where homes resonating with the worship of the mother goddess and illuminated by her perpetual lamp are blessed with her eternal grace. This divine presence infuses purity into the very atmosphere of the household. Notably, these sacred practices are accompanied by the abundant flow of prosperity, both in terms of wealth and sustenance.
As the auspicious occasion of Navratri approaches, it is an opportune moment to gear up and embrace the devotion of Maa Durga. By opening our hearts and homes to her worship, we invite the divine blessings that bring forth not only spiritual purity but also material abundance. This Navratri, let us wholeheartedly prepare ourselves to revere Maa Durga and bask in the radiant light of her grace.
The auspicious time for the installation of Kalash – will be on October 15, 2023 from 11:44 am to 12:30 am.
Mata Shailputri Puja Vidhi: Step-by-Step Guide
- Purify Yourself: Begin by taking a ritualistic bath and wearing clean, traditional attire.
- Prepare the Altar: Create a sanctified space for the puja by placing a clean cloth on a raised platform or altar.
- Install the Idol or Image: Place an idol or image of Mata Shailputri on the altar. Offer flowers and uncooked rice as a gesture of welcome.
- Kalash Sthapana: Symbolize the presence of the goddess by setting up a Kalash (a pot filled with water) adorned with mango leaves and a coconut.
- Invoke the Goddess: Perform the invocation (Avahana) of Mata Shailputri by reciting her mantra and offering flowers, incense, and a lit oil lamp.
- Offerings (Upachara): Present offerings of water, sandalwood paste, Kumkum, and Akshata (uncooked rice) while chanting her name.
- Perform Puja: Recite the Mata Shailputri Mantra while offering Bilva leaves, a symbol of devotion.
- Light the Lamp: Illuminate the space with a ghee lamp and wave it in a clockwise manner while singing devotional hymns.
- Arati: Perform the Arati ceremony with a camphor-filled lamp, accompanied by rhythmic chants and music.
- Mantra Chanting: Engage in the recitation of the Mata Shailputri Mantra to invoke her blessings and strength.
- Bhog Offering: Present a sumptuous Bhog (food offering) comprising fruits, sweets, and other traditional dishes.
- Aarti and Prasad Distribution: Conclude the puja with heartfelt gratitude expressed through the final Arati and then distribute Prasad to family and guests.
Mata Shailputri Mantra
“ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः॥” (OM Devi Shailaputryai Namah)
Soul-Stirring Arati
As you perform the Arati, sing or chant the following lines with devotion:
“जय अम्बे गौरी, मैया जय श्यामा गौरी। तुमको निशदिन ध्यावत, हरि ब्रह्मा शिवरी॥”
Delectable Bhog Offerings
Prepare a Bhog with a variety of dishes like Kheer, Poori, Chana, Halwa, and fresh fruits. Offer these to the goddess, and afterward, distribute among devotees as Prasad.
Conclusion
Navratri 2023’s first day, dedicated to Mata Shailputri, offers a powerful opportunity to connect with the divine feminine energy and seek her blessings. Following the Puja Vidhi, Shubh Muhurat, chanting the Mantra, performing Arati, and offering Bhog can help devotees partake in a spiritually enriching experience. As you embark on this nine-day journey of faith and devotion, let the blessings of Mata Shailputri guide you towards strength, courage, and prosperity.