What to do on Day-3 of Navratri?

Navratri Day 3: Worship of Goddess Chandraghanta

The third day of Navratri is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Chandraghanta, the third form of Goddess Durga. Chandraghanta, which means “One who has a bell-shaped moon on her forehead,” represents bravery and strength. She is known for her fierce form, which she assumes to destroy evil forces, yet she also embodies serenity and grace. On this day, devotees seek her blessings for courage, peace, and the removal of obstacles from their lives.

Significance of Goddess Chandraghanta

Goddess Chandraghanta is depicted with ten arms, each carrying weapons such as a trident, mace, sword, and bow. She rides a tiger, symbolizing bravery and protection. The half-moon on her forehead resembles a bell, and her roaring voice is said to be as powerful as the ringing of bells, which frightens demons and evil spirits. Worshipping Chandraghanta on the third day of Navratri is believed to remove all sins, physical and mental suffering, and ensures safety in all aspects of life.

Chandraghanta’s form reflects the balance between beauty and fear, grace and strength. She is a symbol of divine protection and justice, and her worship is said to bring harmony and success to those who are struggling with difficulties.

Rituals and Prayers on Day 3

1. Ghatasthapana Continuation:

• The rituals for Day 3 continue from the previous days, with the Kalash (sacred pot) remaining central to the puja. The Kalash, which symbolizes the presence of the goddess, is worshipped daily, and the diya (lamp) lit on Day 1 continues to burn as a representation of the eternal light of the goddess.

1. Invocation of Chandraghanta:

• The primary ritual of Day 3 is the invocation of Goddess Chandraghanta. Devotees begin the puja by chanting mantras and shlokas specific to Chandraghanta, seeking her blessings for courage, strength, and the ability to face challenges fearlessly.
• The mantra recited on this day is:
  ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah
• Along with this mantra, the Durga Saptashati or Devi Mahatmya is recited to glorify the goddess’s virtues and her victories over evil forces.

2. Offering to the Goddess:

• Devotees offer red flowers, particularly roses, as they are believed to be dear to Goddess Chandraghanta. Other offerings include fruits, sweets like kheer (rice pudding), and panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee).
• The color of the day is red, symbolizing passion, strength, and the fierceness of the goddess. Devotees often wear red clothes during the puja to align with the energy of Chandraghanta.

3. Lighting the Akhand Jyot:

• The Akhand Jyot, a lamp that was lit on the first day, continues to burn uninterrupted. This flame symbolizes the goddess’s protective presence and the continuous spiritual light that guides devotees through the challenges of life.

Fasting and Dietary Observances

Fasting remains a key component of Navratri, and on Day 3, devotees continue their observances with devotion and discipline. The fast is seen as a means of purifying the body and mind, helping devotees to focus on their spiritual practices and devotion to the goddess.

1. Types of Fasting:

• Nirjala Fast: Some devotees continue to observe a Nirjala fast, where they abstain from both food and water throughout the day, breaking their fast only after the evening puja.
• Phalahar Fast: Many choose to observe a Phalahar fast, consuming only fruits, milk, and water. This type of fast is less intense but still helps in maintaining focus on spiritual activities.
• Satvik Food: For those who eat during the fast, the emphasis remains on satvik food, which excludes grains, onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian items. Common dishes include sabudana khichdi (tapioca pearls), boiled potatoes, and fruit salads.

2. Specific Foods for Day 3:

• Milk and Dairy Products: Dairy products are integral to the Navratri diet and are consumed in various forms such as milk, yogurt, and paneer (cottage cheese). These foods provide essential nutrients while adhering to the fasting guidelines.
• Kuttu (Buckwheat) Flour: Kuttu ki puri or kuttu ka paratha is a popular choice during Navratri. Buckwheat is gluten-free and considered a fast-friendly grain, providing energy and sustenance.
• Singhara (Water Chestnut) Flour: Singhara flour is used to make rotis (flatbread) or pakoras (fritters). It is light, nutritious, and suitable for fasting.

Meditation and Spiritual Practices

On the third day of Navratri, the focus is on harnessing inner strength and courage, qualities embodied by Goddess Chandraghanta. Devotees engage in meditation, prayers, and other spiritual practices to connect with the divine and enhance their resilience and determination.

1. Chakra Meditation:

• On this day, devotees meditate on the Manipura chakra, which is the solar plexus chakra located near the navel. This chakra is associated with personal power, confidence, and self-esteem. Meditating on this chakra helps in overcoming fear, building confidence, and asserting oneself in the face of challenges.
• The mantra “Ram” is chanted during the meditation to activate and balance the Manipura chakra.

2. Bhajans and Kirtans:

• Devotional songs and kirtans are sung in praise of Goddess Chandraghanta. These songs create a spiritually uplifting environment and help devotees immerse themselves in the goddess’s protective energy.
• Popular bhajans include “Jai Ambe Gauri” and “Chandraghanta Vandana,” which invoke the goddess’s blessings for strength, courage, and protection.

3. Offering Donations:

• Charity and giving continue to be an important aspect of Navratri. On Day 3, devotees are encouraged to offer donations, especially to causes that support the protection and empowerment of women. This act of giving is believed to bring blessings from the goddess and help in overcoming personal obstacles.
• Donating food, clothes, or money to those in need, especially women and children, is considered highly auspicious on this day.

Special Observances for the Day

1. Reciting the Chandraghanta Stotra:

• The Chandraghanta Stotra is a sacred hymn dedicated to the goddess. Reciting this stotra on the third day of Navratri is believed to remove obstacles, bring peace, and ensure protection from negative energies.
• Devotees chant this stotra with devotion and faith, seeking the goddess’s blessings for courage and resilience.

2. Visiting Temples:

• Many devotees visit temples dedicated to Goddess Durga on this day. Special pujas and rituals are conducted in temples, and the atmosphere is filled with the sound of bells and chanting, creating a powerful and spiritual ambiance.
• Offering prayers at a temple dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta is believed to enhance the effectiveness of one’s devotion and bring divine protection.

Conclusion

Navratri Day 3 is a day of empowerment and protection, marked by the worship of Goddess Chandraghanta. Her fierce yet graceful form reminds devotees of the balance between strength and serenity, bravery and grace. By worshipping her, devotees seek the courage to face life’s challenges, the strength to overcome obstacles, and the grace to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity.

Through rituals, fasting, meditation, and charity, devotees aim to purify themselves and connect with the divine energy of Chandraghanta. This day emphasizes the importance of inner strength, resilience, and the protective power of the goddess, as devotees continue their spiritual journey through the sacred festival of Navratri. The worship of Chandraghanta inspires devotees to stand strong in their convictions, fight against injustice, and remain steadfast in their spiritual practices.