The third facet of Goddess Durga is ‘Chandraghanta’, who is worshipped on the third day of Navaratri, for peace, tranquillity and prosperity in life. She has a ‘Chandra’ or half moon on her forehead in the shape of a ‘ghanta’ or bell. That is why she is called Maa Chandraghanta.

She is charming, has a golden bright complexion and rides a lion. She has ten hands, and three eyes and holds weapons in her hands. The lion signifies Dharma, 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.

The conch shell is blown during the Maa Chandraghanta Puja to invoke her presence, while the lotus flower symbolizes purity and spiritual growth. The trident (Trishul) represents creation, preservation, destruction, and the goddess’s power to protect her devotees and destroy evil.

Maa Chandraghanta – Navratri Day 3  Mythological stories

Maa Chandraghanta’s mythological stories highlight her power and compassion. She defeated the demon king Mahishasura and restored peace to the world. In another legend, her loud roar caused an earthquake during battle, but she also showed compassion by allowing defeated demons to join her army.

Benefits of Maa Chandraghanta Puja

• Maa Chandraghanta Puja offers spiritual benefits such as removing obstacles and attaining success.
• Worship of Maa Chandraghanta is believed to offer protection from negative energies and foster positivity and harmony.
• The puja enhances spiritual growth, leading to inner peace and courage to overcome challenges.
• Maa Chandraghanta represents the balance between power and compassion, helping to find balance in life and develop a compassionate heart.
• The puja can bring spiritual awakening and transformation, leading to higher consciousness and enlightenment.
• Worship with devotion and sincerity can bring divine protection and guidance for a fulfilling life.

Rituals and Customs On Maa ChadraGhanta Puja 

The worship of Maa Chandraghanta on the third day of Navratri celebrations involves setting up a decorated altar, offering flowers, fruits, and sweets, lighting lamps and incense, and chanting mantras dedicated to the goddess. 

Devotees also observe fasting practices and perform aarti to conclude the puja. The rituals seek to create a sacred atmosphere and invoke the blessings of Maa Chandraghanta for prosperity and protection. 

These customs strengthen the bond between devotees and the goddess while seeking her divine presence and blessings. Maa Chandragupta Aarti and Mantras are also chanted along with the offers. 

Fasting and Dietary Guidelines for Navratri Day 3

Fasting during Navratri is essential to seek divine blessings. A complete fast is observed on day three, and only sattvic foods are consumed. 

• These foods include fruits, nuts, dairy products, and singhare ka atta. 
• A sattvic diet promotes mental and physical purity, leading to a calm mind and detoxification of the body. 
• Fasting rules include abstaining from grains, non-vegetarian food, and tamasic and rajasic foods. 
• Some devotees may also refrain from consuming water until the puja is completed.

Cultural Celebrations

On the third day of Navratri, cultural celebrations such as Dandiya and Garba are popular in honour of Maa Chandraghanta, accompanied by processions with her idol. 

Devotees report personal experiences of feeling protected and successful after performing the puja, with a deeper connection to the divine. 

Joining in the worship and fasting practices during Navratri can bring spiritual benefits, and participating in cultural celebrations can provide a festive way to honour Maa Chandraghanta.

Online Puja Services for Maa Chandraghanta

• Online puja services offer convenience and accessibility to devotees.
• Devotees can book an online puja for Maa Chandraghanta through various websites.
• Experienced priests perform rituals, and personalised rituals can be requested.
•  Virtual participation is possible through live streaming of the puja ceremony.
• Devotees can make online offerings and donations to the temple.

Conclusion

Maa Chandraghanta is a significant deity representing bravery, power, and safety. Her Navratri puja is a means to enhance spiritual well-being, cleanse the body, and empower the mind. Devotees should participate in her puja and seek her blessings for a rewarding Navratri experience. SmartPuja‘s online puja services provide an effortless way for devotees to worship Maa Chandraghanta and benefit from her blessings, regardless of their location.