Cutting Chai with Bhawana Somaaya - Day 203

Navratri -Navadurga

07.10.2013, Mumbai   

During Navaratri, we invoke the energy aspect of God in the form of the universal mother, commonly referred to as Durga, which literally means the remover of miseries of life. She is also referred to as DeviShakti (energy or power) that precedes creation, preservation and destruction. It is believed that during these nine days God is motionless and it is the Divine Mother Goddess that rules the universe. Worship of Shakti re-confirms the scientific theory that energy is imperishable.

 Day 1/ Ekum is dedicated to Devi Shailaputri, also recognized as Sati Bhavani, Parvati or Hemavati, the daughter of Hemavana - the king of the Himalayas. 

It is believed that she is an embodiment of the power of all the three gods that is –Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. She rides a bull and carries a trident in one hand and a lotus in her other hand.  The first day devi puja is called Kalash Sthapna and the colour of the Goddess for today is Grey.

Day 2/ Dooj is dedicated to Devi Bharmacharini, who practices devout austerity.

She enlightens us in the magnificent embodiment of the all powerful and graceful Durga. She holds a rosary in her right hand and a water utensil in her left hand. It is believed that Devi Bhramachari brings peace and prosperity in our lives and guides us to Moksha.  The second day devi puja is called Ghata Sthapna and the colour of the Goddess for today is Orange.

Day 3/ Teej is dedicated to Devi Chandra Ghanta who embodies peace and tranquility. 

She is named after the moon because a half moon exists in the shape of a bell on her forehead.  She is alluring and golden in colour and is also referred to as sherawali as she rides a lion and is an avtaar of ten hands and three eyes. She is the apostle of bravery because she singlehandedly battle against ferocious demons. The third day devi puja is called Gauri Vratta and the colour of the Goddess for today is White.

To be continued

Bhawana Somaaya / @bhawanasomaaya