As the auspicious festival of Navaratri unfolds, each day brings new fervor and an opportunity to connect with different manifestations of the feminine divine. On Day 3, we pay our respects to Chandraghanta, the symbol of courage, grace, and protection. It is on this day that Parvati learns she will marry Shiva. Let us delve into the deeper significance, rituals, and colors associated with this divine form on this special day.

Meaning and Significance

Chandraghanta derives her name from ‘Chandra’ meaning moon and ‘Ghanta’ referring to a bell-shaped adornment, representing the crecent pendant she wears on her forehead given to her by Shiva. She is depicted as a serene yet fierce goddess, riding a tiger and wearing a half-moon-shaped like a bell. This form denotes her power to ward off negativity, evil forces, and protect her devotees from any harm.

Chandraghanta symbolizes courage and fearlessness while she bestows grace and strength upon her devotees. Worshipping her signifies embracing one’s inner strength to overcome obstacles and emerge victorious in challenging times. She is also known to bless her devotees with peace, abundance, and prosperity.

Rituals and Observances

On the third day of Navaratri, devotees perform specific rituals to honor and seek blessings from Chandraghanta. These observances include a preparation, puja, invocation, offerings, aarti and prayer, fasting, and color association.

While preparing for the day, devotees take a ritual bath and dress up in clean, vibrant attire. Setting up an altar adorned with flowers, incense sticks, and a picture or idol of Chandraghanta invokes positive vibrations. The puja begins with offering prayers to Lord Ganesha and reciting mantras to seek his blessings for a successful worship.

Devotees then chant prayers and hymns dedicated to Chandraghanta to invoke her divine presence. They offer fruits, flowers, and sweets as a symbol of devotion and surrender. Aarti, a ritual of waving a lit lamp in front of the deity, follows the chanting of devotional songs. This signifies offering light and removing darkness, both in the physical and spiritual realms. Songs and prayers specially composed for Chandraghanta are sung to express devotion.

Many devotees observe a partial fast on this day, consuming only specific satvik foods like fruits, milk, and light dishes to purify their bodies and minds. The fasting is believed to enhance focus and spiritual connection.

Colors Associated

Colors play a significant role during Navaratri, with each day representing a different hue. On the third day, devotees wear royal blue-colored and red attire to resonate with the divine power and energy of Chandraghanta. Blue represents strength, tranquility, and deep spirituality. Adorning oneself in this color is believed to attract positivity and evoke a sense of serenity. Red represents the passion and courage of Chandraghanta.

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