Importance of the Third Day of Navratri
Mataji Name: The third day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, the third form of Goddess Durga. She is known for her serenity and courage and is often depicted with a crescent moon on her forehead (hence the name "Chandra" meaning moon, and "Ghanta" meaning bell). She represents peace and strength and is known for protecting her devotees from evil.
Importance of the Third Day: Spiritual Beliefs and Rituals
Spiritual Significance:
- Maa Chandraghanta symbolizes peace and bravery, and worshipping her on the third day is believed to bring balance and calmness into one’s life.
- She is considered the protector from negative energies, and her presence encourages us to face our challenges with courage and calmness.
- Her blessings are believed to help devotees overcome fears and fill their lives with joy and serenity.
Rituals:
- Morning Prayer: The day begins with devotees offering flowers, fruits, and sweets to Maa Chandraghanta. Yellow flowers are considered her favorite.
- Chanting Mantras: Special mantras are recited to invoke her blessings, and her aarti (prayer song) is sung with devotion.
- Offering Bell Sounds: The sound of bells is often used during her worship as it is believed to drive away negative energy and cleanse the environment.
- Meditation: Many devotees spend time in meditation, focusing on inner peace and strength, seeking Maa Chandraghanta’s guidance to maintain tranquility in life.
Fasting: Short Information and Benefits
Fasting on the third day of Navratri is a common practice to purify the mind and body.
- Purpose of Fasting: It is meant to help individuals disconnect from worldly distractions and focus on inner peace, much like Maa Chandraghanta’s qualities of calm and courage.
- Benefits:
- Detoxification: Fasting helps cleanse the body of toxins, improving digestion and enhancing overall health.
- Mental Clarity: It provides a break from daily stress and helps individuals focus on their spiritual growth, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance.
- Emotional Balance: Fasting teaches patience and self-control, and helps people stay centered and calm, much like the goddess herself.
Fasting Food Recipe: Samak Rice Khichdi (Barnyard Millet Porridge)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup samak rice (barnyard millet)
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) or oil
- Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
- Water (as required)
Instructions:
- Rinse Samak Rice: Wash the samak rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
- Cook Potatoes: Heat ghee or oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add diced potatoes and sauté until golden.
- Add Samak Rice: Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Stir well and add water (about 2 cups) and rock salt.
- Cook: Cover and cook on a low flame for 10-12 minutes or until the rice is soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Garnish: Once cooked, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Health Benefits:
- High in Fiber: Samak rice is gluten-free and rich in fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Easy to Digest: It’s light on the stomach, making it ideal for fasting, and helps maintain energy levels.
- Rich in Nutrients: Samak rice is a good source of iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins, which promote overall well-being.
Fasting Drink Recipe: Lemon and Mint Water
Ingredients:
- 1 glass of water
- Juice of half a lemon
- A few fresh mint leaves
- A pinch of rock salt (sendha namak)
- A pinch of black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Water: In a glass of water, add freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Add Mint and Salt: Add the fresh mint leaves and a pinch of rock salt. Stir well.
- Optional: For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper.
- Serve: Drink chilled or at room temperature.
Health Benefits:
- Hydration: This refreshing drink helps maintain hydration levels, which is important during fasting.
- Detoxification: Lemon helps flush out toxins from the body, while mint soothes digestion.
- Boosts Immunity: The combination of lemon (rich in Vitamin C) and mint supports the immune system, keeping you energized throughout the day.
Conclusion
The third day of Navratri, dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, is a day to focus on peace and strength. Through spiritual practices, fasting, and offerings, devotees aim to embrace her qualities of courage and calmness in their own lives. By observing fasts and preparing nourishing fasting foods like Samak Rice Khichdi and hydrating drinks like Lemon and Mint Water, people not only honor their spiritual journey but also support their physical well-being. The day is a beautiful reminder to remain strong yet peaceful, much like the divine goddess herself.