Navratri Day 3: Embracing the Divine Strength of Maa Chandraghanta

On the third day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Chandraghanta, the goddess of peace, bravery, and spiritual awakening. Her divine energy inspires courage and serenity in every heart.

As the vibrant celebration of Chaitra Navratri 2025 progresses, Day 3 marks the worship of Maa Chandraghanta, the third form of Navdurga. Radiating a unique aura of calmness and strength, she represents courage, grace, and spiritual transformation. Worshipped with immense devotion, Maa Chandraghanta blesses her devotees with fearlessness, serenity, and protection from negative forces.

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Who is Maa Chandraghanta?

Maa Chandraghanta is named after the crescent moon (Chandra) that adorns her forehead in the shape of a bell (Ghanta). This ornament gives her an ethereal glow and a celestial presence. She is depicted as a ten-armed goddess, riding a tiger or lion, carrying weapons like the trident (Trishul), mace (Gada), bow, arrow, sword, and kamandal, while also holding a lotus and rosary, and blessing with Abhaya and Varada Mudras (symbols of fearlessness and granting boons).

While her form appears fierce to the wicked, she is the embodiment of peace and compassion for her devotees.

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Mythological Significance of Maa Chandraghanta

Maa Chandraghanta is associated with the legend of Parvati, who transformed into this fierce avatar after marrying Lord Shiva. When evil forces attempted to disrupt their union, Parvati assumed the form of Chandraghanta to defeat them, thus showcasing her Shakti (divine energy) and protecting dharma. Her roaring bell is said to have terrified the demons and silenced negative energies.

This day symbolizes the transformation of a gentle soul into a warrior when righteousness is threatened — a reminder of inner strength in times of adversity.

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Symbolism and Powers

• Crescent Moon Bell: Signifies eternal awakening and alertness against evil.
• Tiger/Lion Mount: Represents fearlessness and readiness to act.
• Ten Arms & Weapons: Symbolize the goddess’s capability to protect her devotees and destroy negativity.
• Abhaya & Varada Mudras: Emphasize her dual nature — a fierce protector and a compassionate mother.

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Spiritual Significance of Day 3 Worship

Day 3 of Navratri is associated with the Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra) — the center of vitality and self-confidence. Worshipping Maa Chandraghanta is said to activate this chakra, empowering individuals with courage, clarity, and a sense of purpose.

This is also the day when devotees seek to overcome inner fears, doubts, and emotional imbalances, stepping into their personal power under the guidance of the Devi.

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Puja Vidhi: How to Worship Maa Chandraghanta

1. Begin the day with a purifying bath and wear clean or traditional attire in yellow or golden hues, considered auspicious.
2. Set up the puja altar with a picture or idol of Maa Chandraghanta.
3. Offer fresh yellow flowers, jaggery, banana, kheer, and sweets to the Goddess.
4. Light a ghee diya and incense sticks.
5. Chant her mantra: “ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः॥”
   (Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah)
6. Recite the Durga Saptashati or read stories of her valor.
7. Perform aarti and conclude with offering food or donations to the needy.

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Benefits of Worshipping Maa Chandraghanta

• Instills fearlessness and self-confidence
• Helps overcome depression and anxiety
• Offers protection from evil spirits and harmful energies
• Brings peace, harmony, and balance in personal life
• Awakens spiritual strength and clarity

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Conclusion

Maa Chandraghanta, the warrior goddess with the gentle moon on her forehead, reminds us of the power of transformation — from peace to fury when needed, from vulnerability to strength. As we bow to her divine energy on the third day of Navratri, let us invoke the courage to face life’s battles with grace, dignity, and inner strength.

May Maa Chandraghanta bless you with peace, protection, and the fearlessness to rise above all odds. 🌼🙏