Sept 22 — The sacred festival of Shardiya Navratri 2025 commenced today, marking the beginning of nine days of devotion, rituals, and celebration across India. Day 1 is dedicated to Maa Shailputri, the first manifestation of Goddess Durga, revered as the daughter of the Himalayas and the embodiment of purity and strength.
Devotees began the day with the ritual of Ghatasthapana, symbolising the invocation of divine energy. The auspicious muhurat for the ritual was observed between 6:11 AM and 7:52 AM, with additional Abhijit Muhurat from 11:51 AM to 12:39 PM. The Pratipada Tithi began at 1:23 AM and will end at 2:55 AM on September 23.
Maa Shailputri is depicted riding a bull, holding a trident and lotus, and is associated with the Moon—believed to bring fortune and tranquillity. Devotees wore white, the colour of the day, symbolising serenity and spiritual clarity.
The puja vidhi included placing a pan with mud and navadhanya, installing a Kalash filled with sacred items, and lighting a diya to burn throughout Navratri. Offerings of flowers, incense, fruits, sweets, and desi ghee bhog were made to seek blessings.
As Navratri unfolds, each day will honour a different form of Goddess Durga, culminating in Vijayadashami on October 2.
