While you might be aware of the Sharadiya Navratri that is marked with Vijayadashami, Chaitra Navratri is another celebration you must know about. It is a holy period of nine days falling in the Hindu month 'Chaitra' that is dedicated to Maa Durga and her nine forms.
During this auspicious time, devotees seek the blessings of Devi by reciting prayers and songs dedicated to her. The worship is usually carried out by placing some fruits and a bowl of rice in front of the deity or a photo of the goddess. Here are some powerful prayers you can recite to seek Maa Durga's blessings during Chaitra Navratri 2024.
Durga Astakam: One of the common prayers recited in worshipping the goddess is the Durga Astakam which is an eight-verse prayer that glorifies Maa Durga and her attributes. The prayer is said to be very effective when recited in the early hours of the day, or at the time of sunset. People associate it with the removal of fear and sorrow, being blessed with courage and strength.
Devi Kavacham: As the name suggests, the Devi Kavacham is a prayer seeking her protection and guidance in one's life. While reciting this prayer, a devotee requests the goddess to be with them and protect them through the challenges and troubles of life.
Durga Chalisa: This happens to be a prayer sung in praise of Maa Durga. It has forty-verses dedicated to her, highlighting her virtues and seeking her divine blessings and protection. There is a strong belief that chanting this every day at least once makes one free from anxiety, distress, and debts.
Durga Gayatri Mantra: "Om Mahadevyayi Cha Vidmahe, Durgayai Cha Dimahi, Tanno Devi Prachodayaat." The Durga Gayatri Mantra is a sacred prayer that praises Goddess Durga and seeks her divine blessings for intellect, wisdom, and spiritual growth.
Navarna Mantra: “Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche.” This is one single mantra to worship Devi in her three powerful forms, Mahasaraswati, Mahalakshmi, and Mahakali. It is also known as Chandi Mantra.
