Chaitra Navratri 2024 Day 3 : Significance, rituals

Chaitra Navratri 2024 Day 3 falls on Thursday. Chaitra Navratri, a significant Hindu festival observed globally, occurs during the Hindu month of Chaitra. Comprising nine nights of fervent worship, Navratri, derived from ‘nav’ meaning nine and ‘ratri’ meaning nights, sees devotees venerating nine forms of Goddess Durga: Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Maa Skandamata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kalaratri, Maa Mahagauri, and Maa Siddhidatri. This year, the festival spans from April 9 to 17, with devotees engaging in fasting and prayers throughout the multi-day celebration, culminating with Ram Navami, Lord Rama’s birthday.

On the third day of Navratri, also recognized as the Gauri Puja day, observed on Thursday, April 11, devotees pay homage to and honor Maa Chandraghanta, symbolizing peace, calmness, and serenity. From the date and timings to its significance, here’s all you need to know about day 3 of Chaitra Navratri.

Maa Chandraghanta, the married form of Maa Parvati, adorns her forehead with a crescent or Chandra after her marriage to Lord Shiva, earning her the title of Goddess Chandraghanta. She is depicted riding a tigress and possessing ten hands, with four right hands holding a lotus flower, arrow, bow, and prayer beads, while the fifth right hand is in Abhaya Mudra and the fifth left hand in Varada Mudra.

Maa Chandraghanta is believed to embody Maa Parvati’s tranquil essence. The sound of the moon and the bell on her forehead are said to dispel all kinds of spirits from her devotees. Legend has it that the sound of her bell has vanquished many demons during battles, sending them to the abode of the God of Death.

Devotees observe traditional rituals on the second day of Chaitra Navratri, worshipping Maa Chandraghanta alongside Lord Shiva and fasting to seek divine blessings. Rituals include offering jasmine flowers, rice, and sandalwood to Maa Chandraghanta in a kalash, followed by an abhishek with milk, curd, and honey. Devotees also prepare a special sugar bhog for the goddess during Navratri.