Navratri 2024 Ghatsthapana Auspicious Timings:
This year, the sacred Chaitra Navratri festival starts tomorrow on April 9th, culminating on April 17th with the celebration of Mahanavami. These nine holy days are dedicated to worshipping the various forms of Goddess Durga. Devotees present her with fruits, sweets, and assorted offerings, embracing the belief that sincere worship during these days can bless one with desired boons from the Goddess herself. The ceremonial Ghatsthapana marks the beginning of the rituals. Let us guide you through the auspicious timings and procedures for Ghatsthapana this Chaitra Navratri.
Auspicious timings for Ghatsthapana (Chaitra Navratri 2024)
The solar eclipse will conclude late at night, at 2:22 AM. Following this, on the morning of April 9th, Ghatsthapana can be confidently performed during the auspicious times. This year, there are two particularly auspicious moments for Ghatsthapana or Kalash establishment during Chaitra Navratri.
The first auspicious timing for Ghatsthapana-
from 6:11 AM until 10:23 AM
The second auspicious timing for Ghatsthapana
(Abhijit Muhurat)
-
from 11:57 AM until 12:48 PM
Essentials for Kalash Establishment (Chaitra Navratri 2024 worship materials)
For the Kalash establishment during Chaitra Navratri, you will primarily need a brass, copper, or clay pot, a clay platform, sacred thread, a coconut, a small red cloak, mango leaves, barley, sindoor (vermilion), water, lamp, sand, sesame oil or ghee, and clay among other materials.
How to perform Ghatsthapana after an eclipse (Chaitra Navratri 2024 Ghatsthapana method)
Astrologers advise to counter the negative energies produced by the solar eclipse before performing Ghatsthapana. After the eclipse ends late at night, awaken early in the morning. First, clean the entire house. Sprinkle Ganges water around your home for purification. After bathing, wear clean clothes. Sprinkle Ganges water on basil plants. Then, according to your means, offer food or useable items to the poor. Clean the north-east corner of your home, where the Goddess's shrine will be set up, and sprinkle it with Ganges water. Then perform the Ghatsthapana at the auspicious time. First, place a wooden platform in the north-east direction and cover it with a red or yellow cloth. Sprinkle Ganges water around the platform before placing the Goddess's idol upon it. Light the eternal flame and offer worship materials, sweets, and fruits. Then establish the Kalash beside the platform. Fill it with water, tie the sacred thread around its neck, and place turmeric, unbroken rice, cloves, coins, cardamom, betel leaves, and flowers inside. Draw a Swastika on top of the Kalash with Roli, place mango or ashok leaves on it, wrap the coconut in a red cloth, tie the sacred thread, and place it atop the Kalash. Once Ghatsthapana is completed, invoke the Goddess's presence.
How to worship during Chaitra Navratri? (Chaitra Navratri 2024 Puja Method)
Throughout the nine days of Navratri, perform puja both in the morning and evening, recite mantras and perform the aarti. Choose one mantra to recite for all nine days depending on your needs. Reading the Durga Saptashati is considered very auspicious during Navratri. Offer different prasad each day or simply offer two cloves daily.
What will the Goddess's mount be this year? (Chaitra Navratri 2024 Goddess's Arrival)
The mode of the Goddess's arrival is deemed significant, hinting at the times to come. This year, the Goddess will arrive on a horse, symbolizing possible conflicts and natural disasters. This suggests the potential for unnecessary disputes and accidents in people's lives.
What precautions to take? (Chaitra Navratri 2024 Do's and Dont's)
Maintain purity throughout Chaitra Navratri. Perform Devi puja in both morning and evening slots. Nighttime worship during Navratri holds special significance. If you are observing fasts, consume only water and fruits. Never leave the puja space empty. During these holy days, avoid disrespecting anyone or using harsh language.