Navratri fasting and puja rituals: Navratri begins from the first day of Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. This year, Chaitra Navratri starts from April 9th, Tuesday, and will continue until April 17th. This year’s Navratri lasts for the full 9 days, which is considered highly auspicious. On the first day of Navratri, Ghatasthapana is performed. Many people also light Akhand Jyoti (continuous lamp) during this period. Observing fasts for the 9 days of Navratri and performing puja rituals diligently can fulfill significant desires.
Procedure for Navratri Kalash establishment puja:
- Wake up during Brahma Muhurta (early morning), take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
- If observing Navratri fasting, take the vow (sankalp) for the fast.
- It is preferable to wear clothes of red, yellow, or green colors.
- Then, establish the Kalash (sacred pot) during the auspicious muhurat.
- Sprinkle Ganga jal (holy water) to purify the place. Spread a red cloth on a platform and make a Swastika symbol.
- Sprinkle roli (vermilion) and akshat (raw rice grains). Then, place the idol or picture of Goddess Durga.
- For Kalash establishment, take a clay pot and fill it with pure water. Add cloves, rice grains, turmeric, coins, cardamom, betel leaves, flowers, etc.
- Make a Swastika symbol with roli on the Kalash. Place the Kalash on top of a heap of rice.
- Ensure that the Kalash is placed in the north or northeast direction (the Ishan corner).
- Attach Ashoka leaves around the mouth of the Kalash.
- Wrap a red-colored cloth around a coconut and tie it with a sacred thread (kalava). Then, invite Goddess Amba and perform the puja by lighting a lamp.
- Additionally, observe fasting for the 9 days of Navratri and consume fruits or certain specified foods.
Navratri Remedies:
If you desire to earn wealth and prosperity, Navratri’s 9 days are particularly special for seeking blessings from the divine mother. Some remedies performed during Navratri can help fulfill these desires.
- Light an Akhand Jyoti (continuous lamp) throughout the 9 days of Navratri. If not possible, at least light a ghee or oil lamp twice a day, morning and evening. Add four cloves to the lamp.