Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Navratri Day 3: Maa Chandraghanta, the third form of Goddess Durga, is worshipped on the third day of Shardiya Navratri. Devotees offer prayers to the goddess for peace, prosperity and relief from difficulties.
October 13, 2026, marks the third day of Shardiya Navratri, dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, the third manifestation of Goddess Durga. According to Hindu religious beliefs, worshipping the goddess helps devotees overcome obstacles and attain peace and prosperity. She is regarded as a benevolent and compassionate form of the Divine Mother who protects her devotees from suffering.
Maa Chandraghanta derives her name from the crescent moon shaped like a bell on her forehead. She is traditionally depicted riding a lion and carrying weapons in her ten hands, including a sword, shield, mace, trident, discus, bow, arrows and a noose. Her appearance symbolises courage, strength and the protection of righteousness.
Maa Chandraghanta Puja Vidhi
Devotees can follow these rituals to worship Maa Chandraghanta on the third day of Navratri:
Wake up early in the morning, preferably during Brahma Muhurta, take a bath and wear clean clothes.
Clean the place of worship and prepare the arrangements for offering prayers to Goddess Durga and Maa Chandraghanta.
Light a diya and take a sincere vow to observe the Navratri fast, if fasting.
Offer red and yellow flowers to the goddess.
Perform the puja by offering kumkum, akshat (unbroken rice), incense, a lit lamp and camphor.
Offer fruits and sweets to Maa Chandraghanta after completing the main rituals.
Chant the goddess's mantras and recite the Durga Chalisa to seek her blessings.
Conclude the puja by performing the aarti of Goddess Durga and Maa Chandraghanta with family members.
What Bhog Should Be Offered to Maa Chandraghanta?
According to religious beliefs, offering milk and milk-based preparations to Maa Chandraghanta is considered auspicious. Devotees can offer kheer as bhog on this day.
Sweets prepared with saffron, cardamom and dry fruits are also considered suitable offerings. Devotees should ensure that the food is prepared with cleanliness and purity before presenting it to the goddess.
Religious Significance of Maa Chandraghanta
Maa Chandraghanta is associated with courage, strength, peace and the removal of obstacles. Devotees worship her with the belief that her blessings can help them face challenges with confidence and overcome difficulties in life.
The third day of Navratri provides an opportunity for devotees to offer prayers with devotion, observe traditional rituals and seek the goddess's blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their families.
