Navaratri celebrations begin with worship of Goddess Shailaputri

Team Udayavani, Oct 3, 2024, 11:57 AM IST

Today marks the start of Navaratri, the auspicious nine-day Hindu festival, with the first day dedicated to the worship of Goddess Shailaputri, a revered avatar of Maa Durga. Shailaputri, also known as Adishakti, represents Goddess Parvati, the daughter of King Himavanta, the mountain king. In Hindu mythology, she is celebrated for her divine strength and purity.

On this sacred day, devotees honor Shailaputri, who is depicted wearing white, symbolizing peace and purity. She is fond of jasmine flowers, and in some regions, a clay idol of the goddess is crafted for rituals and offerings.

Worshippers believe that by offering their prayers to Shailaputri, they will be blessed with the fruits of “Dharmartha, Kama, Moksha, Chatubhuvidham, Purushartha, Phalava” – fulfilling desires, overcoming difficulties, and attaining the four key goals of life: righteousness, wealth, desire, and liberation. Her divine presence is said to grant mental clarity, control over the senses, and inner calm.

Shailaputri’s serene form and white attire symbolize devotion and tranquility, encouraging a life of purity and transparency in both body and mind, essential qualities for pleasing the divine. As Navaratri begins, her worship serves as a reminder of the spiritual discipline needed to walk the path of righteousness with a peaceful heart.