Understanding Maa Chandraghanta

When the third day of Navratri 2025 rolls around, devotees turn their attention to Maa Chandraghanta – the married form of Goddess Parvati. The name comes from the crescent moon (chandra) that rests on her forehead and the bell‑shaped (ghanta) ornament that jingles with divine energy. After tying the knot with Lord Shiva, Parvati assumes this fierce‑yet‑nurturing avatar, riding a tigress and wielding a sword that cuts through negativity.

Astrologically, she’s linked to Venus (Shukra), the planet that governs love, wealth, and harmony. Traditions say that worshipping her can smooth out relationship troubles, bring financial stability, and shield the faithful from dark forces. Her favorite flower is jasmine, and she’s especially fond of the sweet offering of kheer, a rice‑pudding made with milk and jaggery.

Step‑by‑Step Puja Vidhi for the Third Day

Below is a practical, day‑long roadmap that blends scriptural guidelines with everyday convenience. Follow it closely for a sincere and effective worship experience.

Morning preparations

• Rise before sunrise, take a thorough bath, and cleanse the mind with a few minutes of meditation.
• Dress in royal blue – the color that mirrors Chandraghanta’s celestial aura. If blue isn’t available, any shade that feels respectful will do.
• Clear a quiet corner of the home, lay a clean cloth, and arrange the idol or picture of the goddess.

Puja sequence

1. Light a ghee‑filled diya in front of the deity. The flickering flame represents the goddess’s inner light.
2. Offer a fresh garland of jasmine, followed by sweets, a tilak of kumkum, and a dab of sandalwood paste on the idol’s forehead.
3. Present milk and kheer as bhog prasad. You can also include seasonal fruits like bananas and apples.
4. Recite the Durga Chalisa and Durga Saptashati with devotion; these verses invoke the collective power of the divine mother.
5. Chant the primary mantra: ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः॥ Repeat it at least 108 times, preferably with a mala.
6. Follow with the longer Prarthana mantra that praises her courage and protection.
7. In the evening, gather family members for a lively aarti. Wave incense, spin the camphor flame, and sing traditional songs.
8. After the aarti, break the fast with satvik foods – think fruit salad, yoghurt, and a small serving of the offered kheer.

Essential puja samagri

• Desi ghee for the diya
• Jasmine garland and loose jasmine flowers
• Kumkum, turmeric, and sandalwood paste
• Incense sticks and dhoop
• Fresh fruits (banana, apple, pomegranate)
• Milk, curd, and kheer
• Kalash filled with clean water, topped with a coconut
• Rice grains, betel leaves, and nuts for offering
• A clean blue cloth for draping the idol

Mantras to chant

The core mantra is simple yet powerful:

ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः॥

For deeper immersion, the longer prayer can be recited:

पिण्डज प्रवरारूढा चण्डकोपास्त्रकैर्युता। प्रसादं तनुते मह्यम् चन्द्रघण्टेति विश्रुता॥

Both mantras are believed to summon courage, dissolve fear, and attract prosperity.

Fasting guidelines

• Stick to satvik foods: fruits, milk, nuts, and light grain dishes.
• Avoid onion, garlic, meat, and any processed items.
• Keep thoughts pure – no gossip or negative talk during the day.
• Break the fast only after the evening aarti to seal the blessings.

Benefits of worship

Devotees report tangible changes after a sincere Chandraghanta puja. Spiritually, the ritual clears mental fog, boosts confidence, and strengthens meditation practice. On the material side, many notice smoother relationships, increased financial flow, and a sense of protection against hostile influences.

In practical terms, the day can serve as a reset button. The combination of blue clothing, pure food, and rhythmic chanting creates a vibe that helps you let go of past anxieties and step forward with renewed vigor.

Whether you’re a first‑time Navratri participant or a seasoned practitioner, this guide aims to make the third day accessible, meaningful, and transformative. By aligning your actions, colors, and mantras with Maa Chandraghanta’s energy, you invite her courage and grace into every facet of life.