The Hindu Temple-Space and Cosmology in the Hindu Temple

According to the Sthapatya Veda (the Indian tradition of architecture), the temple and the town should mirror the cosmos. The temple architecture and the city plan are, therefore, related in their conception. Volwahsen (2001) has remarked on the continuity in the Indian architectural tradition. The Harappan cities have a grid plan, just as is recommended in the Vedic manuals. The square shape represents the heavens, with the four directions representing the cardinal directions as well as the two solstices and the equinoxes of the sun’s orbit.
A late example of a city designed according to the Vedic precepts is Jaipur. Vidyadhara, who designed the plan of the city, used the pithapada mandala as the basis. In this mandala of nine squares that represents the universe, the central square is occupied by the earth. In the city, which consists of nine large squares, the central square is assigned to the royal palace. The astronomical monuments of Maharaja Jai Singh II may also be seen as embodiments of the Vedic altars

The monument that has been studied most extensively for its cosmological basis is the Angkor Wat temple. Although it is located in Cambodia, it was built according to the principles of Indian architecture and, therefore, we will describe it at some length. The connections between Angkor Wat and Vedic astronomy.it was found that the temple served as a practical observatory where the rising sun was aligned on the equinox and solstice days with the western entrance of the temple, and many sighting lines for seasonally observing the risings of the sun and the moon were identified

The most impressive aspect of the temple representation is that it occurs both at the level of the part as well as the whole in a recursive fashion, mirroring the Vedic idea of the microcosm symbolizes the macrocosm at various levels of expressions. This is done not only in the domain of numbers and directions, but also using appropriate mythological themes, and historical incidents. The mythological scenes skillfully use the oppositions and complementarities between the gods, goddesses, asuras, and humans defined over ordinary and sacred time and space.

The temple is the representation of the cosmos both at the level of the universe and the individual, making it possible for the devotee to get inspired to achieve his own spiritual transformation. The purusha placed within the brick structure of the altar represents the consciousness principle within the individual. It is like the relic within the stupa.
Complementing the tradition of the Vedic ritual was that of the munis and yogis who lived in caves and performed austerities. From this tradition arose the vihara, where the priests lived. The chaitya hall that also housed the stupa may be seen as a development out of the agnichayana tradition where within the brick structure of the altar were buried the rukma and the golden man (see Shatapatha Brahmana  how above the man is placed a perforated brick which encases it like a casket).

The position of the gods in the vastupurushamandala within the temple is a symbolic representation of the spatial projections of the cosmic purusha in his own body.
The temple must be seen as a structure that gives us considerable information about the science and cosmology of its times. Regarding technology behind the constructions, one must look at each structure separately and see how it fits in the evolving techniques of design and artistic representation across the region.

Maa Kushmanda-The fourth form of Durga

After taking form of Siddhidatri, Goddess Parvati started living inside the center of the Sun so that He can liberate energy to the universe. Since then Goddess is known as Kushmanda. Kushmanda is the Goddess who has the power and capability to live inside the Sun. The glow and radiance of her body is as luminous as that of the Sun. 
God Sun is governed by Goddess Kushmanda. She also likes Bali of white pumpkin known as Kushmanda 

The word Kushmanda is made of three other words that are “Ku + Ushma + Amnda= Kushmanda”. Here “Ku” is “Little”, “Ushma” is “Warmth or Energy” & “Anda” is “Egg” , means the one who create the universe as “Little Cosmic Egg” with the energy of Her divine smile is called “Kushmanda”. Goddess Durga is very happy in this incarnation and it is believed that when there is no existence of any creation or universe & there was the eternal darkness, which ended when Maa Kushmanda smiled. So that Maa Kushmanda is known as the creator the whole universe. Maa Kushmanda is also named as “Adi Shakti”. The core of Suraymandala (Sun) is the residence of Devi Maa. She is the only one who has the power & strength to live in the core of Suryaloka (Sun). Her body shines like the glowing Sun. All directions get light from Her Divine smile including the Sun God  itself.  Maa Kushmanda also known as “Ashtabhuja” as she is often depicted as having eight arms. In her seven hands she holds Kamandalu, Bow, Arrow, Lotus, a Jar of Nectar, Discus, and Mace. In her eighth hand she holds a rosary capable of giving eight Siddhis and nine Niddhis. She rides a lion who represents “Dharma”. On worshiping Her ailments and sorrows are eliminated and life span, name, strength and health improved.

The pooja of Devi Kushmanda on the fourth day of Navratri in Durga Pooja having very importance. On this day, Yogis & Sadhaks or other dedicated devotees keep their mind in Anahata Chakra. Kushmanda represents Anahata Chakra in spiritual practice. Kushmanda pooja during Navratri increases one’s health and strength.

The devotees who worship the goddess Durga during the nine days of the Navratra also worship her fourth form Devi Kushmanda and establish the Anhat chakra in their mind to get the blessings from her. Kushmanda pooja during Navratri increases one’s health and strength and the person gets freedom from all kinds of fears.The rituals to perform the Pooja of Devi Kushmanda is similar to that of Devi Chandraghanta and Brahmacharini. You start with the worship of Kalasha on this day with all the gods and goddesses and the family members of the goddess invited into it. Then worship Devi Kushmanda by keeping flowers in your hands to offer her and chant,  “ Surasampurnakalasham Rudhiraplutmeva Cha | Dadhana Hastpadhyabhayam Kushmanda Shubhdastu Me ”.Lord Shiva and Brahma are also worshipped after worshipping the goddess. Shri Hari should be worshipped along with the goddess Laxmi.

Devi Kushmanda Mantra

Ya devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Kushmanda Rupen Sansthita
Namastaseya Namastaseya Namastaseya Namoh Namah ||

Devi Kushmanda Meditation Mantra

Vande Vanchit Kamarth Chandraghrit Shekhram |
Singhrudh Ashtabhuja Kushmanda Yashswaneem ||

Bhaswara Bhanu Nibha Anahat Sthitata Chaturtha Durga Trinetram |
Kamandalu, Chaap, Baan, Padamsudhakalash, Chakra, Gadaa, Japvatidhram ||

Patambar Paridhana Kamniyam Mriduhasya Nanalankar Bhushitam |
Manjir, Har, Keyur, Kinkini Raktrakundal, Mandittam ||

Prafull Vandanacharu Chimbuka Kant Kapolam Tung Kucham |
Komlani Smermkhi Shrikanti Nimannahi Nitmabnim ||

Suraa sampoorna kalasham rudhiraplu thwamevaca Dadhanaa hasthapadmabhyam Kushmanda shubhadaasthu may

Devi Kushmanda Strota

Durgatinashani Twahim Daridradi Vinashneem |
Jaanda Dhandha Kushmande Pranmabhayam ||

Jagatmata Jagatkatri Jagdadhar Rupneem |
Charachareshwari Kushmande Pranambhayam ||

Trailokyasundari TWahindu Kha Shok Nivarinim |
Parmanadmayi, Kushmande Pranmabhyam ||

Devi Kushmanda Kawach

Hansarey Me Shir Patu Kushmande Bhavnashineem |
Hasalkari Netreycha, Hasraundh Lallatkam ||

Kamori Patu arvagatrey, VArahi Uttare Tatha, Purva Patu Vaishnavi Indrani Dakshine Mam |
digividyakshu Sarvatrva Kum Bijam Sarvadatu ||

Maa Chandraghanta-Third day of Navratri

Maa Chandraghanta is one Who establishes justice and wears crescent moon on Her head. Because of this bell shaped mark of moon which is present on the fore head of Maa Chandraghanta, Maa is known as Chandraghanta. The colour of her body is golden, she rides on lion who descrides “dharma”, possesses ten hands and three eyes, eight of Her hands display weapons while the remaining two are respectively in the mudras of gestures of boon giving and stopping harm. Devi Maa is posed as to be ready for war. “Chandra Ghanta”  meaning supreme bliss and knowledge, showering peace and serenity, like cool breeze in a moonlit night. By her blessings all the hindrances coming in way of a person are removed. Her pleasant looks clears all sorrows and sadness of her devotees. Her roaring voice alerts and makes the Demons to tremble.

In Durga Pooja the third day of Navratri is very important in Navaratri. This day the mind of the sadhak enters Manipura Cakra. At this stage by the grace of Maa Chandraghanta he becomes capable of seeing unearthly and divine things. He smells the divine fragrance and many types of divine sound become audible to him. On this day and in this stage of discipline the sadhak is required to be most careful.

By the grace of Mother Chandraghanta all sins of the sadhak (striver) are burnt up and obstacles removed. Her worship is instantly fruitful. She is always in a gesture as if ready to proceed for the battlefield and thus she removes the difficulties of devotees very promptly. Her vehicle is lion and so her worshiper becomes valorous and fearless like a lion. The sound of her bell always protects her devotees from evil spirits. As soon as the sadhak invokes her, her bell immediately becomes active and starts ringing to protect the devotee under her shelter.

Even though she keeps her always busy in killing and suppressing the wicked, yet to her devotees and worshipers she looks most serene, gentle and peaceful. A very good quality that is developed in her devotees who worship her, is-the striver cultivates bravery and fearlessness accompanied by serenity and humility. His face, eyes and the entire body gets effulgent. His voice becomes divinely sweet. Wherever the devotee worshiper of mother Chandraghanta go, they disperse peace and blessings among the people. From the body of such a striver there always takes place an invisible radiation of divinely lighted atoms. This divine action is beyond the perceiving capacity of physical eyes but the striver himself and his associates go on experiencing this fact every now and then. By purifying his mind, words, deeds and body through prescribed manner we should worship the mother Chandraghanta and take shelter under her feet. Through worshiping her we can get rid of all worldly sorrows, and attain the supreme goal spontaneously. We should always try to advance on the path of spiritual discipline by contemplating on the sacred image of the mother. Contemplating on her, we can attain the mundane perfection and ultimate good in the other world.

Today is the third day of Navratri. Hence, Goddess is worshipped in Her Chandraghanta form. Those who worship Goddess Chandraghanta on the third day of Navratri are blessed with eternal strength and everlasting happiness. The Goddess wears the half moon in a bell shape. Hence, this form of the Goddess is known as Chandraghanta. She has a golden complexion, possesses ten hands and rides a tiger. She has weapons in her eight hands. And in the remaining two, one hand has a bell and the other is in the pose of giving blessings to Her devotees. 

During the battle between the Gods and demons, the horrible sound of the Goddess' bell or ghanta sent thousands of demons to the abode of death. Her warring pose shows Her eagerness to destroy all the bad forces which are troubling Her devotess. Goddess Chandraghanta is the representation of Supreme bliss and knowledge. It is said that by Her blessings, all the sins, sufferings, bad energies etc are eliminated from Her devotees' life. By riding a tiger She inspires Her devotees to be fearless.

 By worshipping Goddess Chandraghanta one gets rid of all the worldly sorrows and attains supreme spiritual bliss.


 The mantra dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta is given below:

Om Devi Chandraghantayayi Namah (108 recitation of this mantra)

Pindaj Pravaarudh chandkopastrkairyuta |
 Prasadam Tanute Madhyam Chandraghanteti vishrutaa || 

This means "Oh Goddess Chandraghanta who rides a tiger and holds weapons in Her 10 hands, shower your blessings on me." So, chant this mantra and get blessing from Goddess Chandraghanta on the third day of navratri.

Governing Planet – It is believed that the planet Shukra is governed by Goddess Chandraghanta

Second day of Navratri and Second form of Durga-Brahmacharini

Creator of Universe

She is the one who practices devout austerity. Filled with bliss and happiness, she is the way to emancipation – Moksha. The second Durga Shakti is Brahamcharini. Brahma that is who observes penance(tapa) and good conduct. She is depicted with prayer beads in her right hand and Kamandal in left hand. Legend states that in a previous birth she was Parvati /Hemavati the daughter of Himvan. Once when she was busy in games with her friends,Naradaji came to see her and on reading her hand/palm-lines Narad Muni stated that, “You will get married with a naked-terrible ‘Bhole baba’ who was with you in the form of Sati, the daughter of Daksh in previous birth. But now you have to perform penance for him.” There upon Parvati told her mother Menaka that she would marry none except Shambhu, otherwise she would remain unmarried. Saying this she went to observe penance. That is why her name is famous as tapacharini – Brahmacharini. From that time her name Uma also became familiar.       ‘Brahma’ here refers to the meditative aspect of Brahmacharini and is always depicted as pious women or Sannyasin. She is also worshipped as goddess Tara and is associated with the pious form of Goddess Shakti. She is believed to be that aspect of Mother Goddess, which was present in Sati and Goddess Parvati, when they both did intense austerities to get Lord Shiva as husband. During the penance Maa Parvati did in order to gain Lord Shivji as her consort for thousands of yrs. without eating even leaves she penance so she was called ‘Aparna’. Seeing her body her mother uttered U-ma and so she is also called ‘Uma’. Her worship increases sacrifice,good deeds & restraint in humans. Rudraksha is her most adorned ornament.   In some regions, Goddess Chamunda swarup of Durga is worshiped on the second day of Navratri. In this form she is believed to have killed the demons Chanda and Munda The second aspect of Divine Mother is Brahmacharini Devi.Goddess Brahmchaarini wears white color clothes, she holds rudraksh mala, lotus flower, kamandalu, in her hands. Goddess brahmcharini is the "tapaswini" roop of goddess.. who gives freedom from Kaama, krodha. She is worshipped on 2nd day of Navaratri. She is known as Brahmacharini because she created this Brahmand( universe). Devi Brahamacharini's persona is all illuminated and grand. She has Jap Mala (Prayer Roasory) in her right hand and Kamandala in her left. At the start of creation, Brahmaji created noble men. But they were unable to continue with his creation work. Brahma was very surprised and saddened so he went to Sada Shiva for solution. Sada Shiva said without the help of Devi there could be no propagation of life. So all Devatas went to Mother Bhawani and requested her help. She created female form and created womb in females so the nature and universe could expand. The child is said to have nine powers of Devi, 16 Sanskara and 42 Guna (virtues) of Parents out of which 36 are of mother.

Aradhana Mantra-

1)Ya Devi Sarvbhuteshu Srishti Roopen Samsthita

Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah

2)Karpadmabhyamakshamalakamandalu Devi

Praseedatu Mayi Brahmacharinyanuttama

Brahmacharini Devi Mantra:

Om Hreem Shri Brahamacharini Durgaaye Namaha

Dyana Mantra:

Dadhanakara Padmabhyam akshamala kamandalam

Devi prasidathu mayi brahmacharinya nuththama

SRI DURGA ASHTOTHARA SHATA NAMAVALI

Om Durgayai nama: Om Tejovatyai nama:
Om Shivayai nama: Om Mahamatre nama:
Om Mahalakshmyai nama: Om Kotisuryasamaprabhayai nama:
Om Mahagouryai nama: Om Devatayai nama: 30
Om Chandikaye nama: Om Vahnirupayai nama:
Om Sarvajnayai nama: Om Satejase nama:
Om Sarvalokeshayai nama: Om Varnarupinyai nama:
Om Sarvakarmaphalapradayai Om Gunatrayayai nama:
nama: Om Gunamadhyayai nama:
Om Sarvateerthamayai nama: Om Gunatrayavivarjitayai nama:
Om Punyayai nama: 10 Om Karmajnanapradayai nama:
Om Devayonaye nama: Om Kantayai nama:
Om Ayonijaayai nama: Om Sarvasamharakarinyai nama:
Om Bhumijaayai nama: Om Dharmajnanayai nama: 40
Om Nirgunayai nama: Om Dharmanistayai nama:
Om Aadharashaktyai nama: Om Sarvakarmavivardhitayai nama:
Om Aneeshvaryai nama: Om Kamakshyai nama:
Om Nirgunayai nama: Om Kamasamhartyai nama:
Om Niranhamkarayai nama: Om Kamakrodhavivarjitayai nama:
Om Sarvagarvavimardhinyai nama: Om Shankaryai nama:
Om Sarvalokapriyayai nama: 20 Om Shambhavyai nama:
Om Vaanyai nama: Om Shantayai nama:
Om Sarvavidyadhidevataayai Om Chandrasuryagnilochanayai
nama: nama:
Om Parvatyai nama: Om Ajapaayai nama: 50
Om Devamatre nama: Om Jayabhumishtayai nama:
Om Vaneeshayai nama: Om Jaahnavyai nama:
Om Vindyavasinyai nama: Om Janapujitayai nama:
Om Shastrasyai nama: Om Nirakarayai nama:Om Shastramayyai nama: O
Om Shastramayyai nama: Om Bhaktabhishtaphalapradayai
Om Nityayai nama: nama:
Om Shubhayai nama: Om Bhutatmikayai nama:
Om Chandhrardhamastakayai nama: Om Bhutamatre nama:
Om Bharatyai nama: Om Bhuteshyai nama:
Om Bramaryai nama: 60 Om Bhutadarinyai nama:
Om Kalpayai nama: Om Svadhayai nama:
Om Karalyai nama: Om Naareemadhyagatayai
Om Krishnapingalayai nama: nama: 90
Om Bramhai nama: Om Shadadharadivardhinyai nama:
Om Narayanyai nama: Om Mohitamshubhadayai nama:
Om Roudryai nama: Om Shubhrayai nama:
Om Chandramrutaparisrutayai nama: Om Sookshmayai nama:
Om Jyeshtayai nama: Om Maatrayai nama:
Om Indirayai nama: Om Niralasayai nama:
Om Mahamayayai nama: 70 Om Nimnagayai nama:
Om Jagatsrishtyadhikarinyai nama: Om Neelasamkashayai nama:
Om Bramhandakotisamsthanayai Om Nityanandayai nama:
nama: Om Haraayai nama: 100
Om Kaminyai nama: Om Paraayai nama:
Om Kamalaalayayai nama: Om Sarvajnanapradayai nama:
Om katyayanyai nama: Om Anantayai nama:
Om Kalaateetayai nama: Om Satyayai nama:
Om Kaalasamharakarinyai nama: Om Durlabharupinyai nama:
Om Yoganishtayai nama: Om Sarasvatyai nama:
Om Yogigamyayai nama: Om Sarvagatayai nama:
Om Yogidyeyayai nama: 80 Om Sarvabheeshtapradainyai
Om Tapasvinyai nama: nama: 108
Om Jnanapupayai nama:

Method of performing the Navaratri vrat.

In several families, this vrat is undertaken as a family tradition. This vrat begins on Ashwin Shukla Pratipada.

In a sanctified place in the house, a vedi (sacrificial fireplace) is constructed and the Goddess with eight arms seated on a lion and the Navarna yantra are installed. Beside the yantra a pot (also known as ‘ghat’) is installed and puja of both the pot and the Goddess is performed. 
In the festival of Navratra, as per the tradition, rituals of ghatasthapana and mala-bandhan should be performed. A square base with height equal to that of two fingers should be prepared with sand brought from a farm and (five or) seven food grains should be mixed in it. These seven food grains are barley, wheat, sesame seeds, lentils, grams, rale and save (foodgrains found specially in Maharashtra). 

In the pot of sand or copper, substances such as water, gandh, flowers, durva, akshata, betel nut, five specific leaves, five gems or coins should be put. 

If one does not know the Vedic mantras for installation of the seven food grains and the kalash (signifying Varun, the Deity of rain), then mantras from the Purans should be recited. If one does not know even these, then one should say ‘I offer samarpayami (the name of the substance offered)’ and chant the Lord’s Name. A garland of flowers should be tied in such a way that it reaches inside the pot.

A kumarika (virgin) is worshipped daily for nine consecutive days and is offered meals. A married woman signifies manifest energy while a kumarika represents unmanifest energy. Since some amount of manifest energy is utilised in a married woman, the total energy in a kumarika is more than that in a married woman. 

‘The festival of Navratra is celebrated according to one’s financial capacity and ability, with various programmes including akhand deep-prajvalan (continuous burning of a lamp), Chandipath (recitation of verses of the Goddess), Lalita-puja (ritualistic worship of Lalita) and Saraswati-puja (ritualistic worship of Saraswati), fasts, keeping awake as a ritual etc. 
Even if a devotee is fasting, naivedya should be offered to the Goddess as usual. 

During the immersion of the idol of the Goddess, the germinated seeds are offered to Her. Women carry those small plants for immersion, as the Goddess ‘Shakambhari’, on their heads. 

Finally the installed ghat and the Goddess should be immersed in flowing water. 
In any religious ritual like Navratra, when a lamp is lit continuously as a part of puja, if it blows out because of the wind or due to lack of oil or carbon formation etc. those causes should be corrected and the lamp should be lit again. As penance, the Name of the presiding Deity should be chanted one hundred and eight or a thousand times. 

Blowing into the pots: On the day of Ashtami, women worship Goddess Mahalakshmi and blow into the pots. 

Which specific flower should be offered to a specific Goddess?

One prominent objective of worshipping a Deity is that the devotee should derive optimum benefit for his spiritual progress from the chaitanya (Divine consciousness) in the idol of the Deity. Specific flowers have better ability to attract the subtlest particles of a specific Deity's principle. Naturally, when these flowers are offered to the Deity during worship, they help awaken the idol and the devotee benefits from the chaitanya in the idol. Hence, the importance of offering specific flowers to specific Deities. For eg., Sri Durga Devi – Jasmine; Sri Lakshmi Devi – Rose.

Accordingly, during the worship of Deities, if the incense sticks with the specific fragrances are used, that too would yield maximum benefit. 

What to pray to Goddess?

Pray to the Goddess thus – “O Goddess, we have become powerless, attached to Maya (The great illusion) by pleasure and sensual enjoyments. O Mother, be the source of our strength. With Your strength we will be able to destroy evildoers.” 

Today, like in other Hindu festivals, many malpractices have crept into this festival, also resulting in public nuisance. The public nuisance includes forcible collection of donation, noise pollution, 'Garba' performed to the tune of film songs, obscene dancing in drunken states with obscene gestures, significant rise in the number of unmarried mothers after a few months of Navaratri, all this sounds a death knell for the Hindu religion and civilization. In order to caution the Hindus about this danger, and also to protect and maintain the sanctity of Hindu religion and civilization, Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has undertaken this campaign. Today we are faced with the problems of corruption, terrorism, naxalism etc., along with increasing anti-Hindu incidents wherein Hindu temples, Saints, Scriptures are targeted by the unrighteous (Dharmadrohis). It is high time for Hindus to unite and fight against these evils. With the grace of Shri Durgadevi, devout Hindus will succeed. On the eve of 'Navaratri' let us pray to the Goddess 'Mahishasurmardini' to give us strength to fight against the evil and protect our Hindu Dharma !

To stop the undesirable practices in Navaratri you can do this !

Do not give or take donations by force. 
Avoid disco-dandiya programs which play Hindi film songs or Western music.
If loudspeakers are used after 10.00 p.m. lodge a complaint with the nearest police station.
Avoid immersion processions, where people dance obscenly. 
Do not burst crackers or apply 'Gulal' forcefully.
Use your contacts to organize programs on Protecting the Nation and
Righteousness.
Learn the spiritual science behind the rites/rituals and share it with as many people as you can.
Be alert! Unite! Firmly oppose immoral practices during the celebration festival.

Why Navrathri

Every Indian festival has a reason and significance behind its celebration. It is not only celebrated for fun and enjoyment.

It is the divine power that provides energy for the earth to move around the sun, causing the changes in the outer nature and that this divine power must be thanked for maintaining the correct balance of the universe. Due to the changes in the nature, the bodies and minds of people undergo a considerable change.

Due to climate change & solar influence, the energy level of the body goes up & down. If energy level is up, Satwa increases, positivity increases. On the result of it, human becomes dynamic, enthusiastic, creative & happier. When energy level is down, Tamas increases, negativity increases. So all types of negativity like greed, jealousy, hatred develops in human’s body.

In the month of Vadraba, there is lowest energy. Our saints are so clever. They thought about it & want to do something to keep our energy level up. So they performed Ganapati Puja for first 10 days of Vadraba. We worship the divine power to bestow upon all of us enough potent powers to maintain our physical and mental balance. Then they keep Shradha to remember our ancestors. So we can remember the beautiful memory those we have spent with our grandfather, grandmother & others. When we think about those happy moments, our Satwa goes up, so our energy level goes up.

Then on the first day of Ashvin, they put 9 days of worship to the mother, the source of energy. There is no rakhyas like Mahisasura. The real rakhyasas are our ego, sorrow, greed, jealousy etc which should be killed from ourselves. The 10 days (including Vijaya Dasami) refers to 10 evils.

 

1) Kaam (Lost)

2) Krodh (Anger)

3) Lobh (Greed)

4) Moh (Attachment)

5) Ahankar (Ego)

6) Darr (Fear)

7) Irsha (Jealousy)

8) Jadta (Inertia)

9) Nafrat (Hate)

10) Paschataap (Guilty)

 

Each day we take commitment to destroy one evil from our selves. On the tenth day, we celebrate Vijaya Dasami, i.e. win over all these negativity.

Reason for doing Religious Works at Night

The saints have given more importance to night. Understanding it scientifically; night is peaceful and quite, tantra-mantra and other supernatural things are in strong position. It is easy to concentrate in the night. Chanting Mantra in a peaceful environment yields auspicious results. Many obstacles of nature are removed. This time may be used for gaining mental power and Yogic powers.

Scientifically, performing things during the day increases the chances of problems in concentrating; just the way radio signals face problems during day time but improve in the night. The sound of the bells and conch kills Germs up-to far-away places. This period is used for Siddhi for fulfilling wishes.

The four important ratri (night)

There are four nights which are special meant for worship.

• Navratri
• Maha ratri (Maha Shiv Ratri)
• Kaal ratri (Deewali)
• ………… (couldn't remeber)

These four falls on 15^th of the month instead of 14^th.

What is Navratri?

Navratri is a combination of two words. 'Nav' means nine while 'ratri' means night. Therefore, this celebration is literally translated as 'nine nights'.

Navarathri is celebrated five times a year. They are Vasanta Navaratri, Ashadha Navaratri, the Sharada Navaratri, and the Paush/MaghaNavaratri. Of these, the Sharada Navaratri of the month of Puratashi and the Vasanta Navaratri of the Vasanta kala are very important.

1. Basanta Navaratri: Basanta Navaratri, also known as Vasant Navaratri, is the festival of nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the spring season (March–April). It is also known as Chaitra Navaratri. The nine days of festival is also known as Raama Navratri.
2. Gupta Navaratri: Gupta Navaratri, also referred as Ashadha or Gayatri or Shakambhari Navaratri, is nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Ashadha (June–July). Gupta Navaratri is observed during the Ashadha Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).
3. Sharada Navaratri: This is the most important of the Navaratris. It is simply called Maha Navaratri (the Great Navratri) and is celebrated in the month of Ashvina. Also known as Sharad Navaratri, as it is celebrated during Sharad (beginning of winter, September–October).
4. Paush Navaratri: Paush Navaratri is nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Paush (December–January). Paush Navaratri is observed during the Paush Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).
5. Magha Navaratri: Magha Navaratri, also referred as Gupta Navaratri, is nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Magha (January–February). Magha Navaratri is observed during the Magha Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).

But popularly Navratra is celebrated twice a year. First Navratra is from Pratipada of Chaitra month to Navami and the second is exactly after six months in Pratipada of Ashwin Shukla Paksha to a day before Vijayadashami. In the two Navratras Sharada Navratra is given more importance. The celebrations begin on the first day of the month of Ashvin (i.e. Ashwin Shukla Paksha Pratipada) according to the Hindu calendar. 

First three days

The goddess is separated as a spiritual force called Durga also known as Kali in order to destroy all our impurities.

 

Second three days

The Mother is adored as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing on her devotees inexhaustible wealth, as she is the goddess of wealth.

 

Final three days

The final set of three days is spent in worshiping the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. In order to have all-round success in life, believers seek the blessings of all three aspects of the divine femininity, hence the nine nights of worship.

We need the blessings of all three aspects of the divine mother; hence, the worship for nine nights.

Each of the nine days of Navratri has special significance. Each day is dedicated to a particular Goddess who is worshipped on that day. 

Nine manifestations of Goddess Durga

‘Nava-Durga’ or nine varied forms of Durga are worshipped in the nine auspicious days of Navratri.

Maa Shailaputri

The first form of Goddess Durga or Shakti is Shailaputri (also known as Parvati or Hemavati). ‘Shail’ means mountains and ‘Putri’ means daughter. Parvati, the daughter of King of the Mountains, Himavan, is called ‘Shailaputri’. She mounts a bull, holding a trident and a lotus flower in her hands.

Legend goes by that the Goddess was born as Sati to the King Daksha, son of Brahma. Sati was a stoic devotee of Shiva, who had done severe penance to win her Lord’s heart and married him. Once her father, the King had organized a yagna in which all the Gods except Shiva was invited.

Sati visited her father despite Shiva’s warnings, where the King insulted her spouse and called him a follower of occult. Not able to take the insults, Sati sacrificed herself to the yagna fire. After that, she took birth as the daughter of Himavan and was called Shailaputri.

Maa Brahmacharini

Brahmacharni (also known as Tapashcharini, Aparna and Uma) is the second form of Shakti. Here Brahma means penance. Brahmacharini is one who practices penance. The form of Brahmacharini is tremendously effulgent and extremely majestic, personifying love and loyalty. She holds a rosary in her right hand and Kamandalu in her left.

Legend has it that Naradaji predicted on seeing her palm that she would marry Lord Shiva because she was Sati, the wife of Shiva in her previous birth. And that she would have to perform penance to attain him in this birth too. During her penance she gradually reduced the food intake and in the end gave up food and water. She undertook the most severe form of penance and was given the name of Brahmacharini.

Maa Chandraghanta

The third form of Shakti is Chandraghanta worshipped on the third day of Navratri. Bearing the crescent moon on her forehead, she has ten arms and three eyes; she is of a golden complexion and has an aggressive posture showing readiness for war. She wears a necklace of bells, which terrifies demons. She rides a tiger and protects devotees.

This particular aspect of the Goddess gives extreme peace and bestows ultimate good.

Maa Kushmanda

Kushmanda (also known as Ashtabhuja) is the fourth form of Shakti. The name is derived from Ku-Usma-Anda. `Ku` means `a little`, `Usma` is warmth, heat or energy and `Anda` means the cosmic egg or universe. Her body shines like the glowing sun. She has eight arms, so the name goes as Ashtabhuja.

In her seven hands she holds Kamandalu, bow, arrow, lotus, a jar of nectar, discus, and mace. In her eighth hand she holds a rosary capable of giving eight Siddhis and nine Nidhis. She rides a lion. On worshipping her ailments and sorrows are eliminated and life span, name, strength and health improve.

Maa Skandamaata

The fifth form of Shakti is known as Skandamata (also known as Padmasana). She is the mother of Kumara or Skanda or Kartikeya, who was chosen by Gods as their commander in the war against the demons. She has three eyes and four arms. Her two hands hold lotuses while the other two hand display defending and granting mudras, respectively. Her mount is a lion.

Legend has it that demon Tarakasur pleased Brahma with extreme penance and asked for immortality. Brahma refused and asked him to wish for something else. Tarakasur being very clever asked for a boon that only the son of Lord Shiva could take his life. Tarakasur thought Lord Shiva would never discard his vow of celibacy, so there would be no son and he would never die.

The boon was granted and Tarakasur started tormenting the world thinking that he was invincible. All the Gods asked Lord Shiva for help. They requested him to get married. Lord Shiva was reluctant but agreed so that the terror spread by the demon could end. After taking human form, he married Parvati and had Kartikeya or Skandkumar who later killed Tarkasur.

Maa Katyayani

On sixth day of Navaratra, the divine Shakti’s Katyayani form that is worshipped. She has three eyes and four arms. One left hand holds a weapon and the other a lotus. The other two hands respectively display defending and granting gestures. Her skin appears golden in colour. Her mount is a lion.

Legend has it that Sage Katyayana cherished a keen desire to have Shakti born as his daughter. The Goddess acceded to his request. Meanwhile, army of the powerful demon Mahishasura, who could only be killed by a warrior Goddess, had reached heaven to overthrow the Gods from their abode. The trinity of Gods – Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, got infuriated and they created the Goddess Durga, who was a culmination of the powers of all deities. Sage Katyayana had the first privilege to worship her, so she was also named Katyayani.

Another myth goes by that she was born to Katyayana as his daughter on the 14th dark of the month Asvina. Katyayana worshipped her for three days, 7th, 8th and 9th of the bright fortnight in the same month and killed Mahishasur on Vijayadasami. Her worship done with devotion and faith leads to four objects – Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha.

Maa Kaalratri

The destroyer of darkness and ignorance, Kaalratri (also known as Shubhamkari) is the seventh form of Shakti, the enemy of ignorance. Her complexion is like dark night with bountiful hair and has four hands. The left two hands holds a cleaver and a torch, and the right two are in the mudras (gesture) of "giving" and "protecting". She has three eyes which emanate rays like lightning. Flames appear through her nostrils when she inhales or exhales air. Her mount is donkey.

Legend has it that Goddess Kaalratri killed Raktabeej. Raktabeej was a demon who could multiply from every drop of his blood which fell on the ground. The Goddess Kaalratri killed him by licking the blood before it could reach the ground and hence conquered him. She endows her devotees with calm and courage.

Maa Mahagauri

Mahagauri is the eight form of Shakti. The Goddess is in the form of eight-year old child with complexion as fair as a conch, moon and jasmine. Her clothes and ornaments are white and pure. She has three eyes and four arms. Her right upper hand is in the pose of allaying fear and right lower hand holds a trident in it. The left upper hand holds a tambourine and the lower one is in the pose of blessing.

Legend has it that when Gauri became soiled with dust and earth while observing penance, Shiva cleaned her with the water of Ganga, after which she became clean and bright like a ray of lightning. Thereafter, she became known as Mahagauri. All sins of devotees are washed away due to her worship. Her power is unfailing and instantly fruitful.

Maa Siddhidatri

The last among the nine forms of Shakti is Goddess Siddhidatri who is worshipped on the ninth or final day of Navratri. ‘Siddhi’ is a Sanskrit term which means ‘perfection’. Goddess Siddhidatri has four arms. She holds a chakra in her right lower hand and a mace in the upper. In the left lower hand there is a conch and in her upper left hand a lotus flower. She is seated on a lotus flower with the lion as her mount.

Legend has it that the Supreme God Shiva got all these ‘siddhis’ by worshipping Maha Shakti. With her gratitude the half body of Shiva became that of the Goddess Shakti and therefore he also came to be called as ‘Ardhanarishvar’.

The Goddess Siddhidatri is capable of giving all sorts of occult powers and is also the possessor of 26 different wishes to grant her worshipers. If a ‘sadhaka’ worships in the prescribed manner with his full faith he acquires all ‘siddhis’ and nothing remains unattainable fro him in the universe.

Legend and myth behind Navratri

The legend behind Navratri is written in detail in Markandeya Purana. Durga Saptashathi is a part of the Purana, describing in length about the origin and birth of Shakti and her victories over the slain demons.

Mahishasura’s Legend

According to Hindu mythology, a demon named Mahishasura, earned the favour of Lord Shiva after a long and hard penance. Lord Shiva, impressed with his devotion, gave him a boon stating that no man or deity would be able to kill him but a woman can kill him.

Mahishasura was very pleased with this boon as he thought that no woman in the three worlds could match his might. Arrogant Mahishasura started his reign of terror over the universe and many people, Gandharvas and Kinnars were killed mercilessly. He had conquered earth, and set his eyes upon Indraloka, the abode of the Gods.

The Defeat of Gods

Mahishasur and his army invaded Indraloka. After defeating the King of Gods, Indra, he drove all the devas (Gods) out of heaven. After their defeat and humiliation at the hands of Mahishasur, the Gods took refuge under Lord Brahma.

Brahma took them to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva was in deep meditation and was totally oblivious to the happenings of the material world. The only solution to end the rule of demon King Mahishasur, was to create a woman who possessed the ultimate power to fight and defeat the unconquerable Mahishasura.

On hearing the atrocities of the demon, Lord Vishnu was furious and a brilliant and powerful energy came out of his being. Lord Shiva also came out of his meditation and angrily opened his third eye, from which came out a strong light, which merged with the already existing light of Vishnu. Brahma and other gods also put in their spiritual powers to the energy, which took the form of a female deity, who was radiant and extremely beautiful.

Culmination of Energies

Her face reflected the light of Shiva, her ten arms were from the light of Lord Vishnu, her feet were from the light of Lord Brahma, the tresses were formed from the light of Yama, the God of death and the two breasts were formed from the light of Somanath, the Moon God, the waist from the light of Indra, the King of Gods, the legs and thighs from the light of Varun, the God of Sea and hips from the light of Bhoodev (Earth), the toes from the light of Surya (Sun God), fingers of the hand from the light of the Vasus, the children of Goddess River Ganga and nose from the light of Kuber, the keeper of wealth for the Gods.

The teeth were formed from the light of Prajapati, the lord of creatures; the Triad of her eyes was born from the light of Agni, the Fire God, the eyebrows from the two Sandhyas, ie, sunrise and sunset, the ears from the light of Vayu, the God of Wind. As she was made from the female energies of devas and demigods, she was aptly named Shakti. The name Durga was given to her after she had killed a demon named Durg.

Power of Weapons

Goddess Durga possessed the unique individual powers of ten deities, which were symbolised by her ten arms, each of which held different weapons gifted to her by the Gods, like Indra’s Vajra, Shiva’s Trishul, Vishnu’s Sudarshan chakra, Varun’s conch, Agni’s spear, Vasuki`s snake.

From Yama, she received an iron rod, a sword and shield. Vishwakarma (God of Architecture) gave her an axe and armor. The God of Mountains, Himavat gifted her with jewels and a lion to ride on. Durga was also given many other precious and magical gifts, new clothing, and a garland of immortal lotuses.

The beautiful Durga, bedecked in jewels and golden armor and equipped with the fearsome weaponry of Gods, was ready to engage in battle with the fierce and cruel Mahishasura. When Mahishasura heard of Durga`s beauty, he wished to marry her and sent across a proposal.

The Goddess replied that she would marry him on the condition that he defeats her in a battle first. Mahishasura and his demon allies found their attention drawn from heaven to Earth.

The Battlefield

As Mahishasura`s armies were struck down effortlessly by Durga, it became obvious to him that heaven could not shield him from the Goddess’ wrath. No demon could fight her and win. Her breath would replenish her armies - bringing back to life all of her soldiers who fell. The demons were in chaos and were easily defeated and captured.

Mahishasura was enraged yet shocked by the disastrous events on the battlefield. He took on the form of a demonic buffalo and charged at the divine soldiers of Durga, killing many and lashing out with his whip-like tail. Durga`s lion pounced on the demon-buffalo and engaged him in a battle. While he was thus engaged, Durga threw her noose around his neck.

Mahishasura then assumed the form of a lion and when Durga beheaded the lion, Mahishasura escaped in the form of a man who was immediately face to face with a volley of arrows from Durga. The demon escaped yet again and then having assumed the form of a huge elephant, battered Durga`s lion with a tusk. With her sword Durga hacked the tusk into pieces.

The Victory

The demon reverted once more to the form of the wild buffalo. He hid himself in the mountains from where he hurled boulders at Durga with his horns. Durga drank the divine nectar, the gift of Kuber. She then pounced on Mahishasura, pushing him to the ground with her left leg.

She grasped his head in one hand, pierced him with her sharp trident held in another, and with yet another of her ten hands she wielded her bright sword, beheading him. At last he fell dead, and the scattered surviving remnants of his once invincible army fled in terror. Thus she came to be called as Mahishasuramardini.

The battle had gone on for nine days and nights and at last, resulted in the beheading of Mahishasura on the tenth. The nine nights became renowned as Navratri, while the tenth day was called Vijaya Dashami, the tenth day that brought the triumph of good over the evil.

Lotus Legend

There are various legends associated with its origin but the most important and prevalent among them is the legend of Lord Rama (the incarnation of Lord Vishnu). When Lord Rama was fighting a battle with Ravana (the demon king) to rescue his wife Sita whom Ravana had abducted and held as hostage in Lanka, his kingdom.

As the battle continued with neither parties failing, Lord Rama decided to seek the blessings of Shakti (Goddess Durga) in order to defeat the demon. The puja which was undertaken by Lord Rama required 108 blue lotuses for the worship of Goddess Durga but he could manage only 107. He decided not to discard the puja due to lack of a single lotus flower and instead thought of offering one of his eyes that was lotus-shaped and blue in color at the Goddess feet.

As he was about to offer his eye, Goddess Durga appeared and satisfied with his devotion, granted her blessing. Lord Rama won the battle against Ravana. The season during which he had performed this puja was spring and the tradition of celebrating Durga Puja has continued since then.

The Legend of Uma

In East India, legend has it that Daksha, the king of the Himalayas had a beautiful daughter called Uma, who since her childhood wanted to marry Lord Shiva. But King Daksha disliked Lord Shiva and his appearance disgusted him. He broke off all relationships with his daugher and son-in-law.

King Daksha planned a yagna, in which all were invited except for Shiva. Uma was greatly hurt by her father`s rude behavior and she immolated herself in yagna fire. However, she took re-birth again as Parvati and married Shiva, thus peace was restored. It is believed that since then Parvati or Uma comes on earth every year with Ganesh, Kartik, Saraswati Laxmi and her friends called Jaya and Bijaya, to visit her parent`s home during the nine days of Navratri. 

Navrathri-History

Navratri is a very important Hindu festival celebrated in India, which is devoted to Goddess Durga. The festival is celebrated with great reverence and faith across the country. It stretches over a period of nine days, with each of the nine days being dedicated to one of the nine forms of the Goddess. Talking about the history of Navratri festival, it can be explained through the stories mentioned in the Hindu scriptures. In case you want to know more about them, explore the information given below

History & Origin Of Navratri
In different parts of India, different legends describe the history of Navratri:

North India 
The legend in North India goes that Mahishasura, the mighty demon, worshipped Lord Shiva and obtained the power of eternity. Soon, he started killing and harassing innocent people and set out to win all the three lokas. The gods in swargaloka appealed to Lord Shiva, to find a way to get rid of the demon. To protect the world from the atrocities of Mahishasura, the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva united their powers and created a divine female warrior, known as Goddess Durga. Mahishasura, when he saw the divine beauty of Goddess Durga, got mesmerized. 

So fascinated was Mahishasura by Goddess Durga's beauty that he approached her with the intention of marriage. The goddess agreed to marry him, but put forth a condition - Mahishasura would have to win over her in a battle. Mahishasura, proud as he was, agreed immediately! The battle continued for 9 nights and at the end of the ninth night, Goddess Durga beheaded Mahishasura. The nine nights came to be known as Navratri, while the tenth day was called Vijayadashmi, the tenth day that brought the triumph of good over evil. 

Eastern Belief 
As per the legend prevalent in East India, Daksha, the king of the Himalayas, had a beautiful and virtuous daughter called Uma. She wished to marry Lord Shiva, since her childhood. In order to win over the Lord, she worshipped him and managed to please him as well. When Shiva finally came to marry her, the tiger-skin clad groom displeased Daksha and he broke off all the relationships with his daughter and son-in-law. One fine day, Daksha organized a yagna, but did not invite Lord Shiva for the same. 

Uma got so angry at her father's rude behavior, towards her husband, that she decided to end her life by jumping into the agnikund of the yagna, where she was united with eternity (since then, she came to be known as Sati). However, she took re-birth and again won Shiva as her groom and peace was restored. It is believed that since then, Uma comes every year with Ganesh, Kartik, Saraswati and Laxmi and two of her best friends or 'sakhis', called Jaya and Bijaya, to visit her parent's home during Navratri. 

Another Legend - Ram and Ravana
Yet another legend of Navratri relates to the Hindu epic Ramayana. It goes that Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Durga in nine aspects, for nine days, in order to gather the strength and power to kill Ravana. He wanted to release Sita from the clutches of powerful demon king Ravana, who had abducted her. Those nine nights became to be known as Navratri and the tenth day, on which Lord Rama killed Ravana, came to be called Vijayadashmi or Dusshera, signifying Rama's (good) triumph over Ravana (evil).