The third day of Chaitra Navratri, we worship Maa Chandraghanta, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, as we have done for the past three days. If you’re facing demons or enemies, you can count on Maa Chandraghanta to be merciful and loving. As per the Hindu calendar, April 15th is Mata Chandraghanta’s birthday. Since the day has come, let’s learn about the Goddess’ mantras, hierarchy, and more in the sections that follow.
Look of Maa Chandraghanta
Due to the crescent moon on Mata Chandraghanta’s forehead, she was given the name Chandraghanta. Shivji is her husband, and they have a child together named Chandrmauli. This incarnation represents her in a married state. Two of Maa Chandraghanta’s ten hands hold the Trishul, while the others hold the lotus, Gada, Kamandal, sword, bow-arrow, and Japa mala, all of which can be found on her ten-fingered body. Her other hand is in the abhaymudra (blessing) position. Maharani Chandraghanta is known for her golden complexion and bravery. Because her third eye is always open, she is ready to exterminate demons whenever they appear.
Experiencing Maa Chandraghanta’s teachings
Milk and kheer are traditionally offered to the goddess on the third day of Chaitra Navaratri, as part of the puja. On the other hand, honey is one of her preferred desserts.
Maa Chandraghanta’s Story
Devi Sati, the youngest of Daksha and Prastuti’s four children, was born to them. In spite of his protests, Sati wed Lord Shiva despite his wishes. Her father’s grand Yagna was taking place, and she went even though she wasn’t invited. When Daksha insulted her husband in public, everyone laughed. Sati humiliated and grieved, committed suicide by suffocating in the Yagna pyre. Since then, Lord Shiva has become more detached from worldly affairs and has taken mortification. He has also gone up into the mountains for long periods of contemplation and deep meditation.
Devi Sati was reborn as Parvati to King Himavan and Mena while all this was going on. Lord Shiva was a must-have consort for Parvati. She put herself through a lot of hardship as a result of her penance. After seeing Parvati’s piety, Shiva agreed to marry her. On the day of the wedding, Shiva showed up at King Himvan’s palace with his body covered in ash, snakes around his neck, and unkempt hair.
When Goddess Parvati saw Lord Shiva in this state, she took on the terrifying form of Chandraghanta to protect herself from further humiliation. As Chandraghanta, she prayed to Lord Shiva and was reborn as a charming prince. When the time came, the ritualistic wedding took place.
Mantras of Maa Chandaghanta
- Om Devi Chandraghantaye Namah is a straightforward mantra to say aloud or in a group.
- This is the mantra of Dhyan: Chandraghantah ein Shreen Shaktayee Namah.
