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Ashadha Gupt Navaratri 2024: Invoking the Divine Feminine Energy

Ashadha Navaratri, also known as Gupt Navaratri, is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. This year, Ashadha Navaratri will be celebrated from July 6th to July 16th, 2024. This festival is a time of spiritual rejuvenation, devotion, and celebration. Let’s delve into the greatness of this festival, its legend, rituals, pooja procedures, areas of celebration, and the goddesses worshipped during this auspicious period.

The Greatness of Ashadha Navaratri

Ashadha Navaratri holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Unlike the more widely known Chaitra and Sharad Navaratri, Ashadha Navaratri is celebrated with a sense of secrecy and deep spiritual fervor. It is believed that during this period, the divine energy of Goddess Durga is at its peak, making it an ideal time for sadhanas (spiritual practices) and seeking blessings for prosperity, health, and protection.

The Legend behind Ashadha Navaratri

The legend of Ashadha Navaratri is rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures. It is said that during this time, Goddess Durga performed intense penance to defeat the demon brothers, Shumbha and Nishumbha. Her victory over these demons symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of dharma (righteousness). This legend inspires devotees to overcome their inner demons and lead a life of virtue and devotion. As invoking Goddess Varahi is considered special during these nine days, this Navratri is also known as Varahi Navratri.

Ashada Navratri: Celebration of Goddess Varahi, a fierce manifestation of Goddess Durga

Ashada Navratri, also known as Gupt Navratri (Secret Navratri), is a nine-day Hindu festival observed during the lunar month of Ashadha (June-July), coinciding with the monsoon season. Here's a breakdown of its significance:

Gupt Navratri- Hidden Celebration:

Unlike the more widely celebrated Sharad Navratri, Ashada Navratri is considered a "Gupta" (hidden) festival.

This means the rituals are generally observed privately or within small groups, with less public fanfare.

Importance of Varahi Puja:

During Ashada Navratri, the fifth day holds special significance for the worship of Goddess Varahi. She is a fierce aspect of Durga, depicted as a boar-faced deity symbolizing immense power and protection.

Devotees believe worshipping Varahi bestows:

• Victory over enemies and obstacles
• Removal of negativity and black magic
• Increased courage, determination, and willpower

Rituals and Pooja Procedures

The rituals of Ashadha Navaratri are elaborate and filled with devotion. Here are some key rituals and pooja procedures observed during this festival:

1. Kalash Sthapana:

The festival begins with the installation of a sacred pot (Kalash) filled with water, mango leaves, and a coconut. This symbolizes the presence of the divine energy of Goddess Durga.

2. Ghatasthapana:

This marks the beginning of the nine-day festival. Devotees plant barley seeds in a pot, which are watered daily. The sprouting of these seeds signifies growth and prosperity.

3. Daily Pooja:

Each day of Navaratri is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga. Devotees perform elaborate poojas, offer flowers, fruits, and sweets, and chant mantras to invoke the blessings of the goddess.

4. Fasting:

Many devotees observe fasting during Navaratri. Some opt for a complete fast, while others follow a fruit and milk diet. Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind, making it easier to connect with the divine.

5. Kanya Poojan:

On the eighth or ninth day, young girls (representing the nine forms of Durga) are worshipped and offered gifts and food. This ritual signifies the worship of the feminine divine energy.

Areas of Celebration

Ashadha Navaratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Maharashtra. Temples dedicated to Goddess Durga are beautifully decorated, and special poojas and cultural programs are organized. In some regions, devotees also perform traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya to celebrate the festival.

Goddesses Worshipped During Ashadha Navaratri

Each day of Ashadha Navaratri is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, collectively known as Navadurga. Here are the goddesses worshipped on each day:

1. Shailaputri:

The daughter of the mountains, representing strength and courage.

2. Brahmacharini:

The goddess of penance and austerity.

3. Chandraghanta:

The goddess of peace and serenity.

4. Kushmanda:

   The creator of the universe.

5. Skandamata:

The mother of Lord Kartikeya.

7. Katyayani:

The warrior goddess.

8. Kalaratri:

The goddess who destroys ignorance and darkness.

9. Mahagauri:

The goddess of purity and tranquility.

1. Siddhidatri:

The goddess who grants spiritual powers.

Sulekha Astro and Priest Services

As you prepare to celebrate Ashadha Navaratri, consider enhancing your spiritual journey with the expert guidance of Sulekha Astro Services. Our experienced astrologers and priests can help you perform the rituals with precision and devotion, ensuring that you receive the maximum blessings of Goddess Durga. Visit our website or contact us today to book our services and make this Navaratri truly special.

Happy Navaratri

Ashadha Gupt Navaratri is a time to immerse oneself in the divine energy of Goddess Durga, seek her blessings, and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. May this festival bring you peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Happy Ashadha Navaratri 2024!