Happy Navratri Image: The first avatar of Goddess Durga – Shailiputri – is worshiped today
Navratri 2020 starts today. The wait is over and the nine-day Navratri dedicated to worshiping the nine avatars of Goddess Durga or Shakti has arrived. This Navratri is also called the Shardiya Navratri because it occurs during the “Sharad” or the fall season. Shardiya Navratri is the most auspicious and significant of the four Navratris observed in one year by the Hindu devotees. The first day of Navratri is known as “Pratipada”, when “Ghatasthapana” or “Kalash Sthapana” is completed and the first avatar of Navdurga – the goddess Shailputri – is worshiped. “Ghatasthapana” can be described as the establishment of the seat where Goddess Durga will stay for nine days.
You must have already cleaned your house and decorations with flowers and Rangoli were made. Most devotees begin the Navratri fast today. They eat special vrat food only once a day – in the evening. Navratri is a time to feel satisfied, enjoy with family and friends getting dressed and of course Rangoli, Garba dance and lights! But take precautions because the Covid pandemic is still raging. Make this Navratri memorable with the family at home.
Shardiya Navratri 2020: Meet Shaiputri, the first avatar of Goddess Durga
The first day of Navratri is “Pratipada” and the goddess Shailputri is worshiped today. According to the scriptures, Shailputri is the daughter of Lord Himalayas. She is also known as Parvati, Bhavani, and Hemavati. She has a half moon on her forehead and holds a trident in her right hand and a lotus in her left hand. Shailputri sits on Nandi (bull).
Shardiya Navratri 2020: Muhurat for Ghatasthapana and Shailputri Puja
‘Ghatasthapana’: Saturday October 17th
‘Ghatasthapana’ Muhurat: 6:23 a.m. to 10:12 a.m.
‘Ghatasthapana’ Abhijit Muhurat ‘: 11:43 a.m. to 12:29 p.m.
