How to Perform a Simple Navarathri Pooja at Home

By Loshinniy Nair S. Baskaran,

4^th OCTOBER: Navarathri, a significant Hindu festival, is celebrated over nine nights in honor of Goddess Durga. Performing a simple pooja at home can enhance your spiritual connection during this auspicious time.

To begin, select a clean, dedicated space for your pooja setup. Ideally, use a small table or altar covered with a bright cloth. Place a picture or idol of Goddess Durga at the center, surrounded by fresh flowers and fruits, symbolizing prosperity and purity.

Prepare for the pooja by gathering essential items: a diya (lamp), incense sticks, kumkum (vermilion), and a bell. Begin the ritual by lighting the diya and incense, which create a serene atmosphere. Offer flowers to the deity as a sign of devotion.

Recite prayers or mantras dedicated to Goddess Durga. The “Durga Saptashati” or “Navakshari Mantra” can be chanted to invoke her blessings. Additionally, read or listen to stories of her valor and triumphs, which inspire devotees.

After the prayers, perform aarti by circling the diya in front of the idol while singing devotional songs. Finally, conclude the pooja by distributing prasad (offered food) among family members, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude.

Throughout the nine days, you can observe fasting or dedicate specific days to different aspects of the goddess, enhancing your devotion. This simple Navarathri pooja can bring peace and positivity into your home, as stated in Astro Ulagam.