Second day of navratri celebrated with wworship of Brahmacharini Devi

KATHMANDU: Today marks the second day of Navratri (Dashain), dedicated to the worship of Brahmacharini, the second manifestation of Navadurga Bhawani.

The name “Brahmacharini” is derived from two words: “Brahma,” meaning penance, and “Charini,” meaning conduct. Brahmacharini is revered as the goddess of penance and devotion.

In her right hand, she holds a chanting rosary, and in her left, a Kamandalu (a water vessel).

Hindu scriptures describe that with the blessings of Brahmacharini Devi, ascetics can attain perfection and triumph in all aspects of life.

Texts such as the Markandeya Purana describe her as the embodiment of asceticism: “Brahma Charayitun Seelam Yasya: Sa Brahmacharini,” meaning Brahmacharini represents the pure pursuit of Satchidananda, the ultimate realization of Brahman. Devotees who seek to understand Brahman especially worship her in this special form.

It is also customary on this day to honor unmarried young girls, inviting them into homes to be worshiped and fed before others partake in meals. The day is celebrated with joy and devotion as part of the larger Dashain festival.

Throughout Navratri, the three divine forms of Goddess Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati are invoked and worshiped. Mahakali is revered as the symbol of power, Mahalakshmi as the source of wealth and prosperity, and Mahasaraswati as the embodiment of knowledge and wisdom.

The first day of Navratri, which fell on Sunday, saw the planting of barley seeds for jamara in the Dashain ghars or prayer rooms, following traditional Vedic rituals.

On that day, the first goddess of the Navadurga, Shailputri, was also worshiped to mark the beginning of this auspicious festival.