Navratri is a nine‑night festival that honors Goddess Durga and her many forms. If you’re new to the celebrations or just want a quick refresher, this guide breaks down the puja into simple actions you can follow at home.
Gather a clean mat or a small table, a picture or idol of Durga, a few candles, incense sticks, fresh flowers, and some fruit or sweets. You’ll also need a small bowl of water, a little turmeric, and a piece of rice for the akshata offering. All of these items are easy to find at a local market or online.
1. Clean the space. Sweep the floor, wipe the table, and make sure the area feels fresh. A tidy space invites positive energy.
2. Set up the altar. Place the Durga picture or statue at the center, surround it with flowers, and light the candles and incense. The light represents the goddess’s power.
3. Invoke the goddess. Begin with a short prayer like, “Om Jai Durga Maa, Aapki Jai Ho.” Speak from the heart – no need for complicated Sanskrit.
4. Offer food. Present the fruit, sweets, and a small bowl of water. These are symbols of gratitude and hospitality.
5. Perform the akshata ritual. Sprinkle a few grains of rice over the deity while saying, “May your blessings fall like rice on our fields.” This act is believed to bring prosperity.
6. Recite a mantra or chant. The most popular one is the “Durga Chalisa” or the simple “Om Dum Durgayei Namaha.” Repeat it three times for each night if you can.
7. Conclude with aarti. Wave a lit camphor or wavy lamp in a clockwise motion, singing “Aarti” songs. This signals the end of the puja and spreads the light around the room.
8. Share the blessings. Distribute the offered sweets to family members or guests. It’s a sweet way to spread the joy of the festival.
That’s it! You’ve completed a basic Navratri puja. You can repeat these steps each night, focusing on a different aspect of Durga’s personality – from fierce warrior to nurturing mother.
Schedule your puja at a time when everyone is free, usually early evening after work. If you have kids, involve them by letting them place a flower or light a small lamp; it makes the ritual more meaningful.
Keep a small notebook handy to jot down any personal prayers or wishes. Remember, the power of Navratri puja comes from sincere intention, not from how elaborate the setup is.
Finally, stay hydrated and take short breaks if you’re doing a longer aarti or chanting session. A relaxed mind helps you focus on the spiritual side of the festival.
With these steps and tips, Navratri puja becomes a straightforward, heart‑felt practice you can enjoy year after year. Happy Navratri!
The second day of Shardiya Navratri 2024 (Oct 4) is devoted to Maa Brahmacharini. Learn the significance, auspicious timings, green color rule, detailed puja vidhi, special bhog and the spiritual benefits of honoring this steadfast form of Goddess Durga.
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