Shailputri, the first form of Goddess Durga, is worshipped on the first day of Chaitra Navratri, marking the beginning of this auspicious nine-day festival. Chaitra Navratri 2025 starts on March 30 and will continue till April 7. The festival is dedicated to celebrating the nine incarnations of Goddess Durga, with each day devoted to one avatar. It also coincides with the Hindu New Year and other regional festivals like Ugadi and Gudi Padwa.
Goddess Shailputri, also known as Hemavati, is considered the daughter of the mountains. Her name is derived from the Sanskrit words "Shail" (mountain) and "Putri" (daughter), symbolizing her origin as the daughter of the Himalayas. In her divine form, Maa Shailputri rides a bull named Nandi, holding a trident (trishul) in one hand and a lotus flower in the other. Devotees invoke her blessings for strength, calmness, and spiritual growth by chanting the mantra, "Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah."
The rituals of Day 1 commence with Ghatasthapana, also known as Kalash Sthapana, which signifies the installation of a sacred pot as a representation of divine energy. According to Drik Panchang, the Pratipada tithi starts on March 29 at 4:27 PM and ends on March 30 at 12:49 PM. The most auspicious time for Ghatasthapana is between 6:13 AM and 10:22 AM, lasting 4 hours and 8 minutes. Additionally, the Abhijit Muhurta, suitable for performing rituals, is from 12:01 PM to 12:50 PM.
Wearing the color orange on this day is considered lucky, as it represents energy and enthusiasm. Devotees perform prayers and rituals with devotion to seek the blessings of Maa Shailputri for inner peace and overcoming life's challenges.
