Introduction to Shailputri Mata: The Daughter of the Mountains
Shailputri Mata, the first form of Goddess Durga, holds a special place in Hindu mythology and is revered as the divine daughter of the mountains. As we approach Navratri 2024, it’s important to understand the significance of this powerful deity and her role in the nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga.
Who is Shailputri Mata?
Shailputri Mata, also known as Hemavati or Parvati, is the first incarnation of Goddess Durga. Her name is derived from two Sanskrit words: ‘Shail’ meaning mountain, and ‘Putri’ meaning daughter. This reflects her origin as the daughter of Himavan, the king of the mountains.
According to Hindu mythology, Shailputri Mata is the reincarnation of Sati, Lord Shiva’s first wife. After Sati immolated herself in her father Daksha’s sacrificial fire, she was reborn as the daughter of the mountain king Himavan and his wife Mena. In this new avatar, she once again won Lord Shiva’s heart and became his consort.
Iconography and Depiction
Shailputri Mata is typically depicted as a beautiful young woman with two arms, riding a bull named Nandi. In her right hand, she holds a trident (trishul), and in her left hand, she carries a lotus flower. Her mount, the bull, symbolizes dharma (righteousness) and justice.
The goddess is often portrayed wearing a red or yellow sari, adorned with various ornaments. Her serene expression and powerful posture reflect both her gentle nature and her immense strength as a manifestation of Shakti, the divine feminine energy.
Significance of Worship on the First Day of Navratri
The first day of Navratri is dedicated to worshipping Shailputri Mata. This day holds great importance for devotees, as it marks the beginning of the nine-day festival celebrating the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
Worshipping Shailputri Mata on this day is believed to bring the following benefits:
- Purification of the mind and body
- Removal of obstacles in life
- Blessings for a harmonious married life
- Success in new beginnings and ventures
- Protection from negative energies
Devotees often fast on this day and offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to the goddess to seek her blessings.
Ruling Planet and Chakra Association
Shailputri Mata is associated with the Moon, which governs emotions, intuition, and the subconscious mind. Her connection to the lunar energy is believed to influence the ebb and flow of life’s experiences.
In terms of chakra association, Shailputri Mata is linked to the Muladhara or Root Chakra. This chakra is located at the base of the spine and is responsible for grounding, stability, and basic survival instincts. By worshipping Shailputri Mata, devotees aim to strengthen their connection to the earth and establish a solid foundation for spiritual growth.
Worshipping Maa Durga Shailputri
To worship Shailputri Mata during Navratri, consider the following practices:
- Set up an altar with an image or idol of the goddess
- Light a ghee lamp or candle
- Offer fresh flowers, particularly red ones
- Prepare and offer prasad (sacred food) such as fruits or sweets
- Recite the Shailputri Mata mantra
- Perform aarti (ritual of light)
- Meditate on the goddess’s qualities and seek her blessings
Remember to approach the worship with sincerity and devotion, as it is believed that the goddess responds to the purity of one’s intentions.
Shailputri Mata Mantra
The following mantra is chanted to invoke the blessings of Shailputri Mata:
ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः ॥
Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah II
This mantra translates to “Om, I bow to the Goddess Shailputri.” Chanting this mantra 108 times daily during Navratri is believed to bring the devotee closer to the goddess and invite her blessings.
Stuti and Aarti
Shailputri Mata Stuti (Praise)
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु माँ शैलपुत्री रूपेण संस्थिता ।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः ॥
Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Shailaputri Rupena Samsthita
Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah II
Shailputri Mata Aarti
शैलपुत्री माँ बैल असवार। करें देवता जय जय कार
शिव-शंकर की प्रिय भवानी। तेरी महिमा किसी ने न जानी ॥
पार्वती तू उमा कहलावें। जो तुझे सुमिरे सो सुख पावें
रिद्धि सिद्धि परवान करें तू। दया करें धनवान करें तू॥
सोमवार को शिव संग प्यारी। आरती जिसने तेरी उतारी
उसकी सगरी आस पुजा दो। सगरे दुःख तकलीफ मिटा दो ॥
घी का सुन्दर दीप जला के। गोला गरी का भोग लगा के
श्रद्धा भाव से मन्त्र जपायें। प्रेम सहित फिर शीश झुकायें ॥
जय गिरराज किशोरी अम्बे। शिव मुख चन्द्र चकोरी अम्बे
मनोकामना पूर्ण कर दो। चमन सदा सुख सम्पत्ति भर दो ॥
Conclusion
Shailputri Mata, the first form of Goddess Durga, embodies the power of new beginnings and the strength that comes from a solid foundation. As we prepare for Navratri 2024, let us embrace the teachings of this divine goddess and seek her blessings for a life filled with purpose, stability, and spiritual growth.
By understanding and honoring Shailputri Mata, we not only participate in a rich cultural tradition but also open ourselves to the transformative power of divine feminine energy. May the worship of Shailputri Mata bring peace, prosperity, and enlightenment to all devotees.
