Patna: Gupta Navaratri began on Wednesday on the occasion of Ashadh Shukla Pratipada, with devotees performing Kalash Sthapana to mark the start of the nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. This year’s observance coincides with auspicious combinations including Pushya Nakshatra, Siddha Yoga and Gajakesari Yoga, which astrologers say has occurred after 12 years.
Rituals are being performed in homes, monasteries and temples, where devotees are lighting Akhand Deep and offering prayers to Goddess Durga for the well-being, prosperity and peace of their families.
Four Navaratris Observed Each Year
Astrologer Rakesh Jha said the Hindu calendar includes four Navaratris annually, comprising two Pratyaksha (public) Navaratris and two Gupta (hidden) Navaratris.
According to Jha, Gupta Navaratri is observed during the Hindu months of Magh and Ashadh, while the Pratyaksha Navaratris are celebrated during Chaitra and Ashwin. He said Gupta Navaratri holds particular significance for spiritual practices, Tantra traditions and the worship of Shakti.
Worship of the Ten Mahavidyas
Gupta Navaratri is traditionally associated with the worship of the ten Mahavidyas, revered forms of the Divine Mother in Shakta tradition.
These include Mahakali, Tara, Lalita, Bhuvaneshwari, Tripurasundari, Chhinnamasta, Bhairavi, Bagalamukhi, Kamala and Matangi. Spiritual practitioners perform special rituals seeking siddhi (spiritual accomplishment), while most devotees observe the festival by worshipping the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
Auspicious Timings for Kalash Sthapana
According to the auspicious timings shared by astrologers, Pratipada Tithi remains in effect from sunrise until 1:30 pm.
The Labh-Amrit Muhurat for Kalash Sthapana is from 5:09 am to 8:32 am. The Shubh Yoga Muhurat is scheduled between 10:14 am and 11:55 am, while the Abhijit Muhurat falls from 11:28 am to 12:22 pm.
An additional Char-Labh Muhurat, considered favourable for worship and prayers, is observed from 3:19 pm to 6:42 pm.
