Significance and Rituals of Ghatasthapana: placement and Muhurat orientation

Navratri is celebrated four times during a Hindu lunar year, dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is a nine-day long festival. The four Navratris are Chaitra Navratra, Shardiya Navratra and two Gupt Navratra. 

Chaitra Navratri begins with the Pratipada date of Shukla Paksha in the Chaitra month, according to the Hindu Panchanga. The ninth day of this festival aligns with the Rama Navami, observing the birth of the Lord Rama. 

The Navratri festival begins with the rituals of Ghatasthapana/ Kalash Sthapana on the first day of Chaitra Navratri and continues for nine days, and the ritual of keeping fast also starts from the first day. Chaitra Navratri is very popular in Northern India, in Madhyapradesh it is known as Gudi Padwa while in Andhra Pradesh it coincides with the onset of Ugadi.

The Ghatasthapana puja vidhi, a ritual for invoking the Goddess Shakti, remains consistent across both Chaitra Navratra and Shardiya Navratri. 

Maa Durga’s arrival on Chaitra Navratri:

Let me tell you something interesting about this year’s Chaitra Navratri. It’s starting on a Tuesday, which is a bit distinctive. But guess what? Mother Durga is spicing things up by arriving on a horse! Yep, you heard that right.

Now, typically, Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered a bit unlucky. But with Mother Durga making a grand entrance on horseback, it’s catching attention. So, what’s the deal with the horse? Well, it’s a symbol of natural disasters. 

So, as we gear up for Navratri, let’s watch for any signs and stay prepared. ‘Cause when Mother Durga arrives, you know it’s going to be an interesting ride – horse and all!

9 Goddess of Chaitra Navratri

During Chaitra Navratri, people worship nine different forms of Maa Durga. These forms are Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. On the final day of Chaitra Navratri, which is called Navami Tithi, the festival of Ram Navami is celebrated. 

Method of Ghatsthapana on Chaitra Navratri

So here’s the deal according to our trusty Shastri: first things first, pick a spot for your Chowki Ghat. But before you roll out the red carpet, guess what? Yep, you’re gonna need some cow dung. Because apparently, that’s how we roll in the world of festive setups!

Next up, grab a big earthen lamp and channel your inner gardener by planting some barley in it. It’s like creating your little green oasis right in your worship space. Then, plop that lamp down and get ready for the show.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the Kalash! You’ve got options here: clay, copper, silver, or gold – pick your bling level. Fill it up with water, toss in some betel nut, a coin, and a chunk of turmeric. And don’t forget the cherry on top – a coconut and some betel or Ashoka leaves. It’s like crafting your very own treasure chest but with a tropical twist!

Oh, and just for giggles, throw some wheat under that Kalash. Because who doesn’t love a surprise stash of wheat?

Now, onto the main part – the worship! Break out the Abeer, Kumkum, flowers, and rice. It’s time to give this Kalash the VIP treatment. But wait, there’s more! Before you get to the main event, pay your respects to Ganapati and summon Mother Goddess herself. And, why not shout out to all the planets while you’re at it? worship all the planets. 

And there you have it – the easy-peasy, slightly cheeky guide to Ghatasthapana on Chaitra Navratri. Who knew setting up a sacred space could be this much fun?

Rules of worship on Chaitra Navratri

• Establishing Kalash: Setting up the Kalash is crucial during Chaitra Navratri. It’s believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and sweetness in married life.
• Illumination and Activity: Ensure there’s no darkness in the house where Ghatasthapana is done. The house should not be left empty either.
• Akhand Jyot: If you’re lighting the Akhand Jyoti (eternal flame), make sure to keep adding oil or ghee carefully to keep it burning continuously for all 9 days.
• Cleanliness: Keep the house clean throughout Navratri. Dirt should not be allowed to accumulate.
• Dietary Restrictions: Avoid Tamsik bhojan (non-vegetarian) food, as well as onions and garlic, during Navratri.
• Personal Care: Refrain from cutting hair, nails, or shaving for the entire duration of Navratri.
• Clothing: Fasting individuals should avoid wearing black-coloured clothes during Navratri.
• Worship Rituals: Perform morning and evening rituals of worship to Mother Goddess according to traditional customs.
• Sattvic Diet: Stick to a sattvic (pure) diet throughout Navratri, avoiding foods that are overly stimulating or heavy. 

Chaitra Navratri and Kalash Sthapana Muhurata

Chaitra Navratri will begin with Ghatasthapana on April 9, which is a Tuesday.

As per Drik Panchang, the timings are as follows:

Ghatasthapana Muhurat – 06:02 AM to 10:16 AM
Duration – 04 Hours 14 Mins

Ghatasthapana Abhijit Muhurat – 11:57 AM to 12:48 PM
Duration – 00 Hours 51 Mins

Ghatasthapana Muhurta falls on Pratipada Tithi
Ghatasthapana Muhurta falls during prohibited Vaidhriti Yoga

Pratipada Tithi Begins – 11:50 PM on Apr 08, 2024,
Pratipada Tithi Ends – 08:30 PM on Apr 09, 2024,

Vaidhriti Yoga Begins – 06:14 PM on Apr 08, 2024,
Vaidhriti Yoga Ends – 02:18 PM on Apr 09, 2024,

Chaitra Navratri will last till April 17, 2024.

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