The festival of spring harvest is known by different names across the various regions in India. In essence, however, Chaitri (spring) Navratri celebrates the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess). This nine-day festival is celebrated in spring (March-April) and is also known as Ram Navratri.
Navratri, or the significant nine-days, comes four times a year. Of these, chaitra (spring) and shardiya (autumnal) have special significance. This year, chaitra navratri spans from April 2 to April 11. This year, the Goddess arrives on a horse, symbolic of caution to the rulers and departs on a buffalo, signalling people to be mindful of their health.
On April 2, sarvarth siddhi yoga and amrut siddhi yoga are performed. This will last until 6:10 pm. The auspicious time on the first day of chaitra navratri is from 12:00 to 12:50 in the afternoon. Hindu New Year begins today and is dated as Vikram Savant 2079.
Auspicious time on April 2:
Ghatsthapan Muhurat: 06.22 am to 8.31 am
Ghatsthapan Abhijit Muhurat: 12:08 to 12:57 pm
Pratipada Tithi: April 1 at 11:53 am
Pratipada ends: April 2 at 11:58 am
Ghatsthapana is performed on the first day of chaitra navratri. Remember that this kalash should be installed in the northeast. In vastu shastra, Ishaan (angle) is considered to be the most auspicious. This increases happiness in the home.
During Navratri, keep the flame of Durga or the traditional akhand diya in the south-east direction to remove all faults in the house. It is also supposed to ward away all foes and ill-health. During Navratri, traders fill a vessel with water (red and yellow flowers in it) at the main gate of their office/shop and keep it facing east or north. It is done to welcome the goddess of wealth and success in business ventures. On the ninth day, young girls who have not attained puberty, are worshipped as the goddess incarnate.
