KATHMANDU: Brahmacharini Devi, the second of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, is being worshipped today on the second day of Navratri in Dashain Ghar and household prayer rooms across the country.
On the first day of Navaratri, Sunday, devotees performed Ghatasthapana according to Vedic rituals and sowed barley seeds to grow jamara (sacred barley shoots), a sacred offering associated with Dashain. Goddess Shailaputri, the first form of Durga, was also invoked and worshipped on the occasion.
On the second day, devotees invoke and worship Brahmacharini Devi at the place where Ghatasthapana was performed.
Throughout the nine days of Navaratri, devotees recite sacred texts, including the Durga Saptashati (Chandi), Shreemad Devi Bhagwat and other hymns dedicated to the Goddess.
According to Hindu tradition, worshipping Goddess Durga during Navaratri brings strength, prosperity and wisdom. Followers of Vedic Sanatan Dharma observe the festival from Ashwin Shukla Pratipada to Navami each year. The sacred offerings worshipped during the nine-day festival are distributed from Vijaya Dashami through Kojagrat Purnima.
Form and significance of Brahmacharini Devi
Brahmacharini is the second manifestation of Goddess Durga and symbolizes devotion, penance, discipline and spiritual dedication. She is traditionally depicted holding a rosary (akshamala) in one hand and a water pot (kamandalu) in the other. Her form represents the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and self-discipline.
During Navratri, devotees visit Shaktipeeths and other temples dedicated to the Goddess across the country to offer prayers and seek blessings. Religious belief holds that sincere worship during this auspicious period brings strength, happiness, peace and the fulfilment of devotees’ wishes.
The Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Care Office has also announced that Brahmacharini Devi will be worshipped with traditional rituals at Dashain Ghar in Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, where the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped on behalf of the state.
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