Navratri, a sacred festival dedicated to the divine goddess Durga, is celebrated four times a year, as per the principles of Vedic astrology. It commences with the Sharadiya Navratri, marking the onset of the festival from the first day of the bright half of the Ashwin month. These nine days are believed to be the time when Goddess Durga descends to bless her devotees, showering them with her divine grace.
The Auspicious Kalash Sthapana: An Astrological Insight
As per the tenets of Jyotish Shastra, the most auspicious time for performing Kalash Sthapana, the sacred ritual of pot installation, falls on the first day of Navratri. It is believed that on this day, performing the Kalash Sthapana ritual alleviates devotees from their miseries and brings prosperity and happiness into their lives. However, it’s essential to note that certain specific planetary combinations may render Kalash Sthapana inauspicious. Let’s delve into the auspicious moment and the detailed puja procedure.
The Navratri Ghatsthapana Muhurat for 2023
As per Jyotish Shastra, Navratri’s Pratipada Tithi begins on Sunday, October 15, 2023. The Abhijit Muhurat is considered the most auspicious time for Kalash Sthapana. According to the Panchang, this year, the Pratipada Tithi starts on the night of October 14, 2023, at 11:24 PM and continues until October 15, 2023, 12:32 PM.
Celestial Alignments and Yogas on Navratri 2023
Astrologically, the Chitra Nakshatra commenced on October 14, 2023, and continues until 6:12 PM on October 15, 2023. Additionally, a Vaidhriti Yoga begins at 10:25 AM on the morning of October 14 and concludes on October 15. According to Jyotish Shastra, both Chitra Nakshatra and Vaidhriti Yoga are considered unfavorable for Kalash Sthapana. Therefore, it is advised to avoid Kalash installation during these times.
The Ideal Muhurat for Kalash Sthapana in 2023
For a successful Kalash Sthapana, the Abhijit Muhurat, which falls on the morning of October 15, 2023, from 11:09 AM to 11:56 AM, is highly auspicious. Performing Kalash Sthapana during this timeframe is believed to attract blessings and positive outcomes.
The Ritual of Kalash Sthapana
As per Jyotish Shastra, devotees should wake up early on the day of Kalash Sthapana, take a ritual bath, and wear clean, fresh clothing. They should ensure the temple at home is clean and adorned with flowers. The Kalash, made of clay, should be filled with water, and certain auspicious items like a coin, betel leaves, and mango leaves should be placed inside. A red cloth should be spread under the Kalash, with a heap of rice placed on it.
The Kalash should be carefully installed on this heap. Finally, perform the idol installation of Goddess Durga and invite the presence of all deities. Commence the puja with the worship of Lord Ganesha, and conclude it with the Aarti of all deities. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a successful Kalash Sthapana, attracting divine blessings and prosperity into your life during Navratri 2023.
