Navratri 2017: Know all about Maa Shailputri, first form amongst Navdurga

On the first day of Navratri, Maa Shailputri is worshiped.The nine days represent the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga. Maa Shailputri has a half moon in her forehead. She is holding a trident in her right hand and lotus flower in her left hand. She rides on Nandi a bull.

Shailaputri literally means daughter(putri) of the mountain(shaila). Goddess Durga was born in the house of King of Mountains “Parvat Raj Himalaya”, so she is called “Shailaputri” means the daughter of mountain. She is also known as Hemavati and Parvati.

Similar to her previous birth as Goddess Sati, Goddess Shailputri got married to Lord Shiva. 

Offering for first day: One pomegranate in the morning and accept as prasadam (blessings) in evening, share with others-offer candles morning and evening (after sunset). Mentally offer all fragrant flowers, fruits, gems, clothing.You can also offer paan leaf (betel leaf) with clove and cardamom.

Also Read: Navratri 2017, Day 1: Know 5 interesting facts about Maa Shailputri

This year Navratra begins on September 21, 2017 (Thursday) and ending on September 29, 2017 (Friday). The nine days represent the nine divine manifestations of Goddess Durga. Navratri comes from the Sanskrit word nava denoting nine and ratri which means night. During this festival of nine nights, the nine forms of Shakti (also known as Navdurga) are worshipped across the country. 

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Important Dates for Navratri Durga Puja Festival 2017

# 1st Day of Navratri : Ghatasthapana / Pratipada (21st sept, 2017) : Goddess Shailaputri Maa

# Tithi - Pratipada

# Ritual - Ghatsthapana, Chandra Darshan

# Goddess Worshipped - Shailaputri (Daughter of Mountain)

# Offerings to the Goddess - Ghee

# Color to be Worn on the Day -Yellow

# Chakra - Muladhara (Root)

# Chakra Color - Red

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"I pay my VANDANA/ obeisance to the DIVINE MOTHER SHAILA-PUTRI, who bestows upon the choicest boons to the devotees. The moon in the crescent form is adorned as the crown on Her forehead. She is mounted on the bullock. She holds a lance in her hand. She is Yashasvini -the CELEBRATED MOTHER DURGA." 

You may also chant:

|| Om aim hring kleem chamundayi vichche ||