Interview Times 
BHUBANESWAR: The third day of Navratri, falling on October 5, 2024, marks the worship of Maa Chandraghanta, one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Known for her powerful and benevolent nature, she embodies both courage and tranquillity, offering protection to her devotees and strength to overcome adversities. This day holds deep spiritual significance as devotees across India honour this form of Adi Shakti.
The Divine Form of Maa Chandraghanta
Maa Chandraghanta is recognized for her divine strength and is often depicted riding a fierce tigress, symbolizing bravery and power. With her ten hands, she holds a variety of weapons, including a trishul, gada, sword, and kamandal, reflecting her readiness to fight evil. In addition, she carries a lotus flower, arrow, dhanush, and japa mala, representing her nurturing side. One hand remains in the Abhaya Mudra, a gesture of reassurance, while another is in the Varada Mudra, symbolizing blessings.
What sets Maa Chandraghanta apart is the crescent moon on her forehead, shaped like a bell, from which she derives her name. After marrying Lord Shiva, Maa Parvati took this peaceful form and became known as Maa Chandraghanta. Despite her calm appearance, she is ever ready to destroy evil and protect her devotees, as the sound of the bell on her forehead is believed to have sent thousands of demons to their doom during battle.
The Significance of Worshipping Maa Chandraghanta
Maa Chandraghanta offers her devotees eternal power, strength, and peace. Worshipping her on the third day of Navratri helps protect against evil and brings the strength to face challenges. Her peaceful yet potent nature ensures that devotees find inner calm while gaining the strength to overcome life’s adversities.
According to Hindu mythology, the sound of the bell on her forehead drives away negative energies and spirits. This protective force makes Maa Chandraghanta an essential figure during Navratri, as devotees seek her grace to ensure their spiritual and physical well-being.
The Rituals and Auspicious Timings for Day 3
The third day of Navratri begins with specific rituals. According to Drik Panchang, the Brahma Muhurat is from 4:38 am to 5:27 am, followed by the Abhijit Muhurat from 11:46 am to 12:33 pm, and the Vijaya Muhurat from 2:07 pm to 2:55 pm. These times are considered ideal for performing the puja to seek the goddess’s blessings.
Devotees wake up early, bathe, and wear new clothes, preferably in shades of orange, the auspicious color for the day. Orange symbolizes warmth, exuberance, and positive energy, aligning with Maa Chandraghanta’s blessings.
The idol or image of the goddess is bathed in Kesar, Ganga Jal, and Kewra, then adorned with fresh clothes, yellow flowers, and jasmine. The offerings to Maa Chandraghanta include panchamrit, mishri, and a special kheer bhog, representing purity and devotion.
Prayers and Mantras for Day 3
Devotees recite special mantras, prayers, and stutis to seek the goddess’s blessings. Here are the prayers and chants dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta:
Prathana:
Pindaja Pravararudha Chandakopastrakairyuta
Prasadam Tanute Mahyam Chandraghanteti Vishruta
Puja Mantra:
Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah
Stuti:
Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Chandraghanta Rupena Samsthit
Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah
Strota:
Apaduddharini Tvamhi Adya Shaktih Shubhparam
Animadi Siddhidatri Chandraghante Pranamamyaham
Chandramukhi Ishta Datri Ishtam Mantra Swarupinim
Dhanadatri, Anandadatri Chandraghante Pranamamyaham
Nanarupadharini Ichchhamayi Aishwaryadayinim
Saubhagyarogyadayini Chandraghante Pranamamyaham
These prayers are a way to connect with Maa Chandraghanta, seeking her divine guidance, protection, and strength.
The Colour of the Day: Orange
Each day of Navratri is associated with a specific color, and on the third day, the color orange is significant. Orange is a vibrant color that symbolizes joy, enthusiasm, and positivity. Wearing this color during the puja invites Maa Chandraghanta’s blessings for warmth and positivity.
Navratri 2024: A Time for Spiritual Renewal
Navratri is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, celebrating the nine forms of Goddess Durga. This year’s Shardiya Navratri, which began on October 3, will culminate on October 12 with the celebration of Dusshera. Throughout these nine days, devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and immerse themselves in devotion, seeking blessings for prosperity, happiness, and strength.
As we honor Maa Chandraghanta on the third day, we are reminded of the balance she represents between peace and power. Her blessings guide us through life’s challenges with grace, courage, and a sense of tranquility.
