Navratri honors nine divine forms of Goddess Durga, and each day of Navratri represents a different element of power and virtue.
Navratri, possibly the most celebrated Hindu festival, is celebrated with deep devotion throughout India. Nine days are memorialized by changing the form of Goddess Durga each day, with the second day set aside for Maa Brahmacharini, who embodies penance, patience, and inner strength.
Significance of the Second Day of Navratri Festival
The second day of the Navratri festival is of Maa Brahmacharini – the ascetic form of Goddess Parvati. The term “Brahmacharini” literally means “the one who is observing the path of penance.” She represents the importance of devotion, discipline, and strength. She is usually pictured in a simple white saree, barefoot, holding a string of Rudraksha beads in one hand and a kamandalu (water pot) in the other hand. She stands for purity, simplicity, and strong resolve.
The Story of Maa Brahmacharini
As Brahmacharini, Goddess Parvarti starved herself and was extraordinarily devoted to Lord Shiva, whom she wished to marry as her husband. During her intense devotion to Shiva as her husband, she gave up comfort and denied herself food, living only on fruits and flowers. She then abstained from eating leaves. Finally, she subsisted only on limited air and energy. The penance of Goddess Parvati was extreme and complete, earning her the name Brahmacharini. The story serves as a reminder to devotees of the power of patience, purity, and a constant, loyal dedication to divinity across obstacles.
Also Read: 10 Best Laptops Under ₹65,000 in India: Know Here!
Rituals and Worship for Day 2
The day starts with devotees taking an early morning bath and cleaning their homes and puja places. The idol or image of Maa Brahmacharini is adorned with flowers, especially jasmine, which is predominantly described as white in color. Devotees offer sweets and fruits in white color. Fasting is also prevalent among devotees; some fast exclusively with fruit, and others take one meal of sattvic food. Devotees perform diya lighting, aarti, and chants, including “Om Devi Brahmacharinyai Namah.” Devotees also recite special prayers, like Durga Saptashati, for blessings of Maa Brahmacharini.
Colour and Offerings of the Day
The colour for the second day of Navratri is white, which stands for peace, serenity, and purity. Devotees generally don white clothes and prepare offerings in the same colour, such as sweets and flowers. White jasmine is said to be especially important for Maa Brahmacharini’s worship.
Maa Brahmacharini’s Blessings
Prayers to Maa Brahmacharini are said to provide strength to face adversity, clarity of mind, and balanced emotions. Devotees pray for her blessings of wisdom, control, and peace of mind. In addition, worship on this day is believed to alleviate difficulties and some astrological obstacles.
