What to do on Day-1 of Navratri?

Navratri Day 1: Worship of Goddess Shailaputri

Navratri, the nine-night festival dedicated to the divine feminine energy, begins with the worship of Goddess Shailaputri on the first day. Shailaputri, which means “Daughter of the Mountains,” is the first form of Goddess Durga. She is revered as the embodiment of Mother Nature and is often depicted riding a bull (Nandi), holding a trident in one hand and a lotus in the other. This day marks the commencement of spiritual purification, as devotees seek blessings for strength, vitality, and spiritual awakening.

Significance of Shailaputri

Shailaputri is considered the purest embodiment of Durga . She represents the Muladhara (root) chakra, the foundation of physical and spiritual well-being. The worship of Shailaputri symbolizes the beginning of the spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of grounding oneself and building a strong base for spiritual growth.

Rituals and Prayers on Day 1

1. Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana):

• The first and foremost ritual of Navratri is the establishment of the Kalash, known as Kalash Sthapana or Ghatasthapana. The Kalash is a sacred vessel symbolizing the universe, and its placement marks the official start of the festival.
• A clay pot is filled with soil, and barley seeds are sown in it. The pot is then covered with a coconut wrapped in a red cloth and placed on a small mound of sand, which symbolizes prosperity and growth.
• The Kalash is placed in the puja room or altar, where it remains throughout the nine days. Devotees light a lamp (diya) in front of the Kalash, which is kept burning for the entire duration of Navratri.

2. Invocation of Shailaputri:

• After the Kalash Sthapana, devotees perform the invocation of Goddess Shailaputri. The puja begins with the chanting of mantras and shlokas dedicated to Shailaputri, seeking her blessings for health, wealth, and spiritual progress.
• The mantra commonly recited on this day is:
  ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah
• Along with the mantra, devotees also recite the Durga Saptashati or the Devi Mahatmya, ancient scriptures that describe the glory and power of the goddess.

3. Offering to the Goddess:

• The puja includes the offering of fresh flowers, particularly jasmine, which is dear to Goddess Shailaputri. Devotees also offer incense, sandalwood paste, vermilion, and fruits to the deity.
• Special dishes such as kheer (a sweet rice pudding) are prepared and offered as bhog (sacred food) to the goddess. The food offered should be prepared with purity and devotion, as it is believed to carry the blessings of the goddess.

4. Lighting the Akhand Jyot:

• Devotees light an Akhand Jyot, a lamp that burns continuously for the entire nine days of Navratri. This lamp symbolizes the eternal light of the goddess and the unbroken connection between the devotee and the divine.
• The Akhand Jyot is typically made of ghee (clarified butter) or mustard oil and is placed near the Kalash. Care must be taken to ensure that the flame remains lit throughout the festival, as it is believed to bring good fortune and ward off negativity.

Fasting and Dietary Observances

Fasting is an integral part of Navratri, and on the first day, devotees begin their fast with deep devotion and discipline. The type of fast observed varies from person to person, with some choosing to abstain from food entirely, while others consume only fruits, milk, and water. The primary purpose of fasting is to cleanse the body and mind, allowing devotees to focus on spiritual practices and connect with the divine.

1. Types of Fasting:

• Nirjala Fast: Devotees who observe a Nirjala fast abstain from both food and water for the entire day, breaking their fast only after the evening puja.
• Phalahar Fast: In this fast, devotees consume only fruits, milk, and other sattvic (pure) foods. Grains, legumes, and certain spices are avoided.
• Satvik Food: Those who do eat during the day consume satvik food, which excludes onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian items. Common dishes include sabudana khichdi (tapioca pearls cooked with peanuts), vrat ke aloo (potatoes prepared with minimal spices), and kuttu ki puri (buckwheat flour bread).

2. Avoiding Tamasik and Rajasik Foods:

• During Navratri, tamasik (impure) and rajasik (stimulating) foods are avoided, as they are believed to increase negative energies and hinder spiritual growth. Instead, emphasis is placed on satvik food, which promotes purity, calmness, and spiritual well-being.

Meditation and Spiritual Practices

Navratri is not only a time for rituals and fasting but also a period for intense spiritual practices. On the first day, devotees engage in meditation and prayers, focusing on the Muladhara chakra, which represents stability and grounding.

1. Chakra Meditation:

• Devotees meditate on the Muladhara chakra, located at the base of the spine. This chakra is associated with survival, stability, and the connection to the earth. Meditating on this chakra helps in overcoming fears, insecurities, and obstacles, allowing for a strong foundation in both material and spiritual life.
• The mantra “Lam” is chanted during the meditation, as it is believed to activate and balance the Muladhara chakra.

2. Bhajans and Kirtans:

• Singing devotional songs (bhajans) and participating in kirtans (group chanting) are common practices during Navratri. These songs are dedicated to Goddess Shailaputri and invoke her blessings and protection.
• The rhythmic chanting of mantras and singing of bhajans help in creating a spiritual atmosphere, allowing devotees to immerse themselves in the divine presence.

3. Offering Donations:

• Charity and giving are important aspects of Navratri. On the first day, devotees are encouraged to offer donations to the poor and needy. This act of kindness is believed to bring blessings from the goddess and purify one’s karma.
• Donating food, clothes, or money to those in need is considered highly auspicious, as it reflects the selfless nature of the divine mother.

Conclusion

Navratri Day 1 is a day of great spiritual significance, marking the beginning of a nine-day journey of devotion, discipline, and divine connection. The worship of Goddess Shailaputri on this day sets the tone for the entire festival, as devotees seek her blessings for strength, stability, and spiritual awakening.

Through rituals, fasting, meditation, and charity, devotees aim to purify themselves and align with the divine energy of Shailaputri. This day emphasizes the importance of grounding oneself in spiritual practices, building a strong foundation for the days to come, and preparing for the deeper spiritual experiences that Navratri offers.