New Delhi, October 10 (Daily Kiran) : The festival of Sharadiya Navratri, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is a significant occasion for devotees. Over these nine days, worshippers honor the nine forms of the goddess, seeking prosperity, peace, and happiness in their homes. The celebration begins on the first day with Kalash Sthapana, a ritual believed to bring positivity into the household.
This year, Sharadiya Navratri commences on Sunday, October 11. The auspicious time for Kalash Sthapana is between 6:19 AM and 10:12 AM. Additionally, the Abhijit Muhurat is set from 11:44 AM to 12:31 PM, marking the start of the worship and religious ceremonies that will continue for nine days.
To perform Kalash Sthapana, gather a wide-mouthed clay pot, clean soil, barley, a Kalash, Ganga water, pure water, a coin, betel nut, whole rice (Akshat), Durva grass, roli, kalava, and five or seven leaves from mango or Ashoka trees. Also, include a red cloth or chunari, flowers, fruits, betel leaves, cardamom, cloves, a ghee lamp, sweets, and puffed sugar.
Begin the first day by waking up early, taking a bath, and wearing clean clothes. Clean the worship area thoroughly. Place a red cloth on a wooden seat and install the idol or picture of Goddess Durga. Sprinkle Ganga water to purify the space and offer flowers, chunari, and decorative items to the goddess.
Next, fill the clay pot with clean soil and sow the barley. Cover it lightly with soil and sprinkle a little water. Keep the pot in the worship area and water it daily throughout Navratri to encourage sprouting.
Tie a kalava around the Kalash and fill it with Ganga water and pure water. Add auspicious items like whole betel nut, a coin, Akshat, and a piece of turmeric. Place five or seven leaves from mango or Ashoka trees on top, followed by a coconut. Position the Kalash beside the barley pot and light a ghee lamp in front of Goddess Durga. Offer incense, flowers, fruits, and sweets while chanting mantras and performing the Aarti.
In religious beliefs, barley symbolizes prosperity and good harvests. Sowing barley during Navratri is associated with new beginnings and happiness. It is considered auspicious when the barley sprouts well.
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