Patna: A large number of devotees gathered at Badi Patan Devi Temple in Patna City on Tuesday to worship Goddess Chandraghanta on the third day of Sharadiya Navratri, with a queue stretching nearly a kilometre outside the temple complex.
Devotees began arriving early in the morning to participate in the aarti and offer prayers. Many carried offerings including unbroken rice grains, flowers, garlands, coconuts, prasad, chunri and hibiscus flowers. Devotees also visited the Sheetala Temple to offer prayers.
The day, observed as Ashwin Shukla Tritiya, coincided with Vishakha Nakshatra and the auspicious combinations of Priti Yoga, Siddha Yoga and Ravi Yoga, according to the traditional Hindu calendar.
Significance Of Goddess Chandraghanta
Priest Narayan Pandey said Goddess Chandraghanta, the third form of Goddess Durga, is worshipped on the third day of Navratri. She is named after the crescent moon shaped like a bell that adorns her forehead.
According to Pandey, the goddess has ten arms, each holding a different weapon, and rides a lion. Her complexion is described as golden, and she is depicted wearing a garland of white flowers.
Pandey said the goddess is believed to protect devotees from demonic forces and that her worship symbolises courage, fearlessness, peace and prosperity.
Devotees Seek Prosperity And Well-being
Pandey said worshipping Goddess Chandraghanta is believed to help devotees overcome obstacles, develop inner strength and cultivate humility alongside courage.
He added that devotees who recite the Durga Saptashati with faith and devotion on this day are traditionally believed to receive fame, respect and honour.
According to religious beliefs associated with the goddess, her worship is also linked to longevity, prosperity and freedom from disease, as well as spiritual well-being.
