Navratri 2024 Day 3: PM Modi Reveres Maa Chandraghanta — 'May the Goddess Bless All Her Devotees'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his prayers to Goddess Chandraghanta, the third form of Durga Maa, during Navratri. “Salutations to the feet of Maa Chandraghanta in Navratri today! May the Goddess bless all her devotees with a successful life. This prayer of hers is for all of you…,” PM Modi posted in Hindi on X, formerly Twitter, and shared a recital of prayers dedicated to the Goddess.

Shardiya Navratri 2024 commenced on October 3 and will run until October 12, concluding with Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami).

Shardiya Navratri is regarded as one of the most significant festivals. This occasion is observed in the Hindu month of Ashwin, typically falling between September and October. During this time, devotees honour Goddess Durga and her various forms, celebrating her victory over the demon Mahishasura.

The festival is marked by fasting, vibrant festivities, and spiritual devotion, drawing large gatherings across India. The nine days of Navratri are filled with prayers, dance and cultural performances.

Navratri Day 3: Goddess Chandraghanta

On the third day of Navratri, devotees honour Goddess Chandraghanta, the married form of Goddess Parvati. She is depicted as a fierce and powerful deity, adorned with a semi-circular moon (Chandra) on her forehead that resembles a bell (Ghanta). This symbol represents her strength and ability to ward off evil.

Goddess Chandraghanta rides a tigress and is shown with ten hands, each holding significant weapons and symbols: a Trishul (trident), Gada (mace), sword, Kamandal (water pot), lotus flower, arrow, Dhanush (bow) and Japa Mala (prayer beads).

Her left fifth hand is positioned in Varada Mudra, symbolising the granting of boons, while her right fifth hand is in Abhaya Mudra, representing fearlessness and protection.

Goddess Chandraghanta is known for being the peaceful form of Parvati. It is believed that the sound of the moon and bell on her forehead wards off all types of spirits from devotees.

Navratri Day 3 Colour

Grey, representing balance and calmness, is the colour for this day.

More About Shardiya Navratri

Shardiya Navratri also celebrated as Maha Navratri, is a nine-day-long Hindu festival that is observed with great enthusiasm across the country and Hindi communities worldwide.

During the festival, devotees worship Goddess Durga and her nine forms, including Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini Puja, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Maa Skandamata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kalaratri, Maa Mahagauri Puja and Maa Siddhidatri.

This year, Shardiya Navratri begins on October 3 and will culminate on October 12, with Dussehra or Vijayadashami.