Noida, March 18 -- First Day of Navratri (Pratipada) - Kalash Sthapana, Puja Method & Significance of Maa Shailputri! On this sacred occasion, a warm welcome to all of you.

Today marks the first day of Navratri, which is also known by different names such as Pratipada, Pratham Sthapana, and Pariva. On this day, various rituals are performed, but the most important among them is Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana), which is the very first step for those who observe Navratri with proper rituals.

In this series, we will present the ancient and profound knowledge of Navratri in a simple and practical way. In this first part, let us understand the importance of the first day, the method of Kalash Sthapana, and the worship of Maa Shailputri.

Why is the First Day of Navratri Special? The first day of Navratri is known as Pratipada, Pratham Sthapana, or Pariva.

It marks the beginning of Shakti Sadhana (worship of divine energy).

The most important ritual of this day is Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana), which forms the foundation of the entire Navratri worship.

Complete Method of Kalash Sthapana: Choosing the Place: Select a clean and sacred spot in the North-East (Ishan corner) of your home.

Soil and Sowing Seeds: Collect soil from 7 different places (symbolizing Saptamatrikas) Sow barley (jau) or 7 types of grains in it Sprinkle water lightly and keep the soil moist

Installing the Kalash: Place a Kalash (earthen/brass/bronze vessel) over the soil.

Fill it with:

Water Betel nut (Supari) Durva grass Akshat (unbroken rice) Turmeric 5 coins

Decoration: Place 5 mango leaves on top. Keep a coconut above it. Meaning: The Kalash and coconut symbolize creation and the womb (creative energy).

Akhand Deep (Eternal Lamp): Place the lamp in the South-East (Agneya direction)

Use only:

Pure desi ghee OR Mustard oil / sesame oil Avoid refined oil or processed ghee

The lamp should remain lit for all 9 days, symbolizing energy and divine power.

Fasting & Diet Rules: Falahar means consuming only fruits.

Fried foods are not considered falahar.

Options:

Fruits (papaya, guava, apple, etc.) Sabudana, water chestnut (singhara)

Maa Shailputri - The First Form of Goddess Durga On the first day of Navratri, Maa Shailputri is worshipped.

Meaning of Shailputri

Shail = Mountain Putri = Daughter Daughter of the Himalayas (Goddess Parvati)

Story of Maa Shailputri (Brief): In her previous birth, she was Sati, the daughter of King Daksha.

Unable to bear the insult of Lord Shiva during Daksha's Yajna, she sacrificed herself.

In her next birth, she was born as Parvati (Shailputri) in the house of the Himalayas and again married Lord Shiva.

This story symbolizes the union of soul (Jeev) with the supreme (Shiva).

Symbolism & Spiritual Meaning: Bull (Vrishabh) - Symbol of stability Mountain - Firm determination Shailputri - Represents strong resolve and new beginnings She is associated with the Muladhara Chakra, bringing stability in life.

Shailputri Puja Vidhi: Offerings: White flowers Coconut Pure cow ghee

What to Wear? Only Shailputri worship: White clothes Full Navratri: Red clothes are also suitable

Shailputri Mantras: 1. Beej Mantra

Om Hreem Shivaya Namah

2. Stuti Mantra

Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shailaroopen Sansthita Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah

3. Dhyan Mantra

Om Devi Shailputryai Namah

4. Description Verse

Vande Vanchhitalabhaya Chandrardhakritashekharam Vrisharudham Shooldharam Shailputrim Yashasvinim

Who Should Worship Maa Shailputri If you are facing:

Difficulty in starting work. Lack of focus or consistency. Instability in career/business. Children unable to concentrate. The worship of Maa Shailputri is highly beneficial.

Special Remedy: Offer pure cow ghee to Maa Shailputri. Chant the Beej Mantra. Consume the ghee as prasad. Giving this to children helps improve focus and stability in studies.

Conclusion: The first day of Navratri is not just the beginning of worship, but a symbol of determination, stability, and new beginnings.

Maa Shailputri teaches us that with strong resolve, every goal in life can be achieved.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Astro Devam.