Day 3 of Navratri: Worshiping Maa Chandraghanta

Navratri, the nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, is more than a series of rituals—it is a spiritual journey. Each day honors one of Durga's nine manifestations, each carrying unique symbolism and energy for devotees. On the third day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Chandraghanta, the goddess of courage, grace, and divine protection.

Her name, “Chandraghanta,” comes from the crescent moon shaped like a bell on her forehead. This form of Goddess Parvati represents a balance of gentleness and ferocity, ready to protect her devotees from negativity while bestowing peace and prosperity.

Iconography and Symbolism of Maa Chandraghanta

Maa Chandraghanta is depicted riding a lion, symbolizing valor and strength. She has ten arms, each carrying symbolic weapons and items:

• Trishul (Trident): Destruction of ignorance and ego

• Gada (Mace): Strength and determination

• Bow and Arrow: Focus, discipline, and action

• Sword: Wisdom cutting through illusion

• Kamandal (Water Pot): Purity and spiritual discipline

• Lotus: Detachment and blossoming of inner beauty

• Ghanta (Bell): Dispelling negativity and awakening consciousness

• Other hands: Gestures of blessing and fearlessness (Abhaya and Varada Mudras)

Her lion mount represents untamed strength under divine control, and her golden complexion reflects divinity and radiance. The bell on her forehead signifies awakening higher consciousness and destroying negative energies.

The Legend of Maa Chandraghanta

Maa Chandraghanta’s story is linked to her marriage with Lord Shiva. Parvati, after rigorous penance, won Shiva’s heart and married him. On the wedding day, Parvati assumed her Chandraghanta form to maintain dignity and peace when Shiva’s terrifying procession arrived.

Later, when demons threatened the world, she manifested again as Chandraghanta, armed with weapons and riding a lion, destroying evil forces with her divine bell. She symbolizes courage, protection, and readiness to fight negativity.

Significance of Day 3 of Navratri

Devotees worship Maa Chandraghanta to receive courage, inner strength, and mental clarity. She is associated with the Manipura Chakra (solar plexus), governing willpower, confidence, and self-discipline. Worshiping her strengthens this energy center, transforming fear into courage and doubt into confidence.

• For spiritual seekers: Enhances discipline, mental clarity, and focus

• For families: Brings peace, harmony, and prosperity

• For life warriors: Inspires courage to face challenges

Rituals and Worship

1. Purification and Attire: Take a bath and wear yellow or golden clothes.

2. Altar Decoration: Place her idol or picture, decorated with marigold and jasmine flowers.

3. Lighting and Incense: Light a ghee diya, offer incense, and chant her mantras.

4. Offerings (Bhog): Milk, kheer, white sweets, and fruits are preferred.

5. Mantra Chanting: “Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah” repeated 108 times.

6. Meditation: Focus on the Manipura Chakra while chanting her name.

7. Aarti and Bell Ringing: The bell purifies the environment and invites divine presence.

Lessons from Maa Chandraghanta

1. Balance of Gentleness and Strength: Spiritual seekers must cultivate compassion while remaining strong in principle.

2. Power of Readiness: Be prepared to face challenges with courage and wisdom.

3. Victory Over Fear: Riding a lion symbolizes taming fears through devotion.

4. Inner Awakening: The bell reminds devotees to awaken consciousness and focus on the Divine.

Relevance in Modern Life

Even today, Maa Chandraghanta inspires courage, mental clarity, and spiritual protection. Her worship helps:

• Reduce stress and fear

• Maintain emotional balance

• Strengthen willpower and self-discipline

• Empower women with courage and grace

The third day of Navratri is a celebration of courage, discipline, and divine protection. Maa Chandraghanta teaches us to face life’s challenges with fearlessness while maintaining inner peace. Her blessings guide devotees toward spiritual awakening, confidence, and harmony.

Worshiping her is not just about rituals—it is about awakening devotion, courage, and inner strength, ensuring a life filled with spiritual awareness and divine grace.