As Navratri 2024 unfolds, the third day, dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, will be celebrated on October 5, 2024. This day holds profound significance for devotees who honor the third form of Maa Durga with deep reverence and devotion through various rituals and prayers.

Importance of Day 3: Maa Chandraghanta

Starting from October 3, the festivities of Navratri are in full swing. Each day of this nine-night festival is dedicated to different forms of the Goddess, with Day 3 focusing on Maa Chandraghanta. This occasion is marked by vibrant celebrations and spiritual practices among Hindu devotees, reflecting the festival’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

Who is Maa Chandraghanta?

Maa Chandraghanta represents the married aspect of Goddess Parvati. After her marriage to Lord Shiva, she adorned her forehead with a half-moon, symbolizing her identity as Maa Chandraghanta. This form of the Goddess is known for establishing justice, discipline, and harmony in the universe. With a radiant golden complexion, she rides a lion and is depicted with ten arms, three eyes, and various weapons like the trident, mace, sword, and bow. Additionally, she holds symbols of grace and spirituality, such as a lotus flower, a kamandal, and a japa mala, while her other hands are positioned in Varada and Abhay Mudras. The bell-shaped moon on her forehead further emphasizes her divine presence.

Meditation on the Third Day

Maa Chandraghanta governs the Manipura Chakra, located at the navel, and is associated with the Sun planet. Those with a weak Sun in their horoscopes can particularly benefit from her worship. She embodies calmness and nurturing qualities, and the sound of her bell is believed to dispel negative energies.

Rituals for Puja

To honor Maa Chandraghanta, devotees can follow these steps for a fulfilling puja:

1. Early Awakening: Rise early and dress in clean, traditional attire.
2. Home Cleansing: Ensure your living space is clean before beginning the rituals.
3. Lighting the Diya: Light a diya using desi ghee and offer items like vermillion, sweets, and bhog prasad.
4. Recitations: Chant the Durga Saptashati and Durga Chalisa to invoke divine blessings.
5. Mantras: Recite various mantras to seek Maa Durga’s grace.
6. Evening Puja: Conduct another round of puja in the evening, culminating with the recitation of the Maa Durga Aarti.
7. Breaking the Fast: Conclude your observance by enjoying satvik food.

Mantra for Maa Chandraghanta

Recite the following mantra to honor her:

**पिण्डजप्रवरारुढा चण्डकोपास्त्रकैर्युता। प्रसादं तनुते मह्यां चन्द्रघण्टेति विश्रुता॥

Engaging in these rituals and honoring Maa Chandraghanta on this auspicious day can lead to blessings of peace, strength, and spiritual upliftment. Celebrate with devotion and immerse yourself in the festivities of Navratri!