Unlocking Navratri 2023: Ghatasthapana Guide for Shardiya Navratri’s Day 1

The first day of Navratri heralds the auspicious Ghatasthapana ritual, a significant event in the nine-day celebration of Shardiya Navratri. Let’s delve into the rules, dos and don’ts, shubh muhurat, and essential rituals to ensure a blessed Navratri experience.

What is Shardiya Navratri?

Shardiya Navratri, celebrated in the autumn month of Ashwin, spans from October 15 to October 24 in 2023. During these nine days, devotees of Maa Durga fervently worship the nine forms of Adi Shakti, collectively known as Navdurgas. These avatars include Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Maa Skandamata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kalaratri, Maa Mahagauri, and Maa Siddhidatri. The first day is dedicated to Maa Shailputri, and Ghatasthapana holds immense significance.

Navratri 2023 Ghatasthapana Muhurat

According to Drik Panchang, Ghatasthapana or Kalash Sthapana should be performed on the first day of Shardiya Navratri, which is October 15. Here’s the precise timing:

• Ghatasthapana Muhurat: It commences during the Abhijit Muhurat on Pratipada Tithi while Chitra Nakshatra is ongoing.
• Shubh Muhurat: The auspicious time for Ghatasthapana starts at 11:44 am and concludes at 12:30 pm.

Pratipada Tithi starts on October 14 at 11:24 pm and ends on October 16 at 12:32 am. Chitra Nakshatra begins on October 14 at 4:24 pm and ends on October 15 at 6:13 pm. Vaidhriti Yoga is from October 14 at 10:25 am to October 15 at 10:25 am.

Navratri 2023 Ghatasthapana Rules, Dos and Don’ts

Ghatasthapana marks the commencement of the nine-day Navratri festival and is the ritual for invoking Goddess Shakti. Here are the essential rules and guidelines:

• Auspicious Timing: It’s crucial to perform Ghatasthapana during the first one-third of the day while Pratipada is in effect. Alternatively, Abhijit Muhurta can also be chosen.

• Avoid Wrong Timing: Performing the ritual at an inappropriate time may incur the wrath of Goddess Shakti. Avoid Amavasya and nighttime for Ghatasthapana.

Navratri 2023 Ghatasthapana Rituals

The Ghatasthapana rituals are a significant part of Shardiya Navratri:

• Kalash Sthapana: The central ritual involves establishing a Kalash, symbolizing the presence of the Divine. It is filled with holy water, and mango leaves are placed atop it. A coconut is positioned over the Kalash, and a red cloth covers it.

• Ghat Creation: A small pit is made, and grains are sown in it. This represents the fertility and growth that Goddess Shakti bestows.

• Invocation of Deity: Chanting of mantras and hymns while welcoming the deity’s presence into the Kalash.

Remember, adhering to these customs and timelines ensures a harmonious and spiritually enriching beginning to Shardiya Navratri. It is a time for devotion, prayer, and reflection.

In summary, the Ghatasthapana ritual on the first day of Shardiya Navratri is a vital step in invoking the blessings of Goddess Shakti. It is not just about following traditions; it’s about experiencing the divine connection that this festival offers. So, follow the rules, adhere to the shubh muhurat, and perform the rituals with utmost devotion to make the most of this Navratri season.

For more information and in-depth details, check out our comprehensive coverage of "Navratri 2023 Ghatasthapana: Rules, dos and don’ts, shubh muhurat, rituals, and more for Day 1 of Shardiya Navratri."

Preparing Delicious Navratri Vrat Recipes

What are the rules for Ghatasthapana in Navratri 2023?

• Choose the Right Timing: Performing Ghatasthapana at the correct time is crucial to avoid the wrath of Goddess Shakti.

• Avoid Amavasya and Nighttime: It’s prohibited to perform the ritual during Amavasya and nighttime.

• Optimal Timing: The most auspicious time for Ghatasthapana is during the first one-third of the day while Pratipada is in effect.

What are the key rituals associated with Navratri 2023 Ghatasthapana?

• Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana): A vital Navratri ritual, Ghatasthapana involves setting up a sacred Kalash or vessel filled with water, adorned with mango leaves, coconut, and auspicious items, in your home’s puja room.

How to do Navratri puja 2023?

• Navratri 2023 Rituals: Devotees actively participate in Garba and Dandiya Raas, celebrating with dance and music.

• Daily Worship: During Navratri, devotees worship Goddess Durga twice a day, in the morning and evening. They engage in chanting mantras, offering prayers, and making offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets as part of their devotion.

• Durga Puja Extravaganza: The festival also witnesses the grand celebration of Durga Puja, complete with intricate pandals and colorful processions.

What is the auspicious time for Ghatasthapana?

• Auspicious Timing for Ghatasthapana: Ghatasthapana is the inaugural ritual of the 9-day festival. The most propitious time for Ghatasthapana is during Abhijit Muhurat, coinciding with the Pratipada Tithi.

How to keep Navratri fast 2023?

• Navratri Fasting Rules: The Don’ts

1. Avoid Non-Vegetarian Food: Refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food, as it goes against the principle of purity during Navratri.

2. Avoid Onion and Garlic: These ingredients are commonly restricted during Navratri fasting.

3. Say No to Alcohol: Abstain from alcoholic beverages.

4. Respect Quiet Hours: Maintain a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

5. Avoid Packaged Juices: Opt for fresh and natural beverages.

6. Avoid Negative Thoughts: Focus on positivity and spiritual reflection.

7. Don’t Skip Prayers: Stay devoted and adhere to your prayer routines.

What is the time for Navratri sthapana in 2023?

• Navratri Sthapana Timing in 2023

• Date: Ashwina Ghatasthapana will take place on October 15, 2023.

• Muhurat: The Ghatasthapana Muhurat will commence at 11:44 am and conclude at 12:30 pm.