Goddess Chandraghanta is one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga worshipped during the Navratri festival in India. She is known as the third manifestation of the Goddess and is represented by a fierce, yet benevolent figure riding a tiger. The word “Chandra” means moon, and “Ghanta” means bell, thus she is also known as the goddess of the moon and the bell.
The Goddess is depicted with ten hands, holding different weapons and symbols of power. She is also adorned with a crescent moon on her forehead, giving her the appearance of a half-moon. The half-moon also represents the balance between the negative and positive energies. The Goddess is also seen wearing a red saree, which represents power and vitality, and a garland of flowers, representing beauty and compassion.
Mantra/मन्त्र:
Prasad Tanute Mahay Chandraghanteti Vishruta ॥
पिण्डजप्रवरारूढा चण्डकोपास्त्रकेर्युता।
प्रसादं तनुते मह्यं चन्द्रघण्टेति विश्रुता॥
Legend has it that the appearance of Goddess Chandraghanta was a result of the union between Lord Shiva and Parvati. When Lord Shiva agreed to marry Parvati, he went to her father, Himalaya, to ask for her hand in marriage. However, Himalaya was worried that Parvati would have to leave her home and live in a foreign land, away from her loved ones. So, he asked Lord Shiva to come and live with them in their own home. Lord Shiva agreed and came to live with Parvati’s family. However, when the other family members saw him, they were frightened by his fierce appearance and started running away. Parvati then took on the form of Chandraghanta, with her ten hands and a fierce expression on her face. She rode on a tiger and sounded her bell to scare away the people. The family members were then able to see the true form of Lord Shiva and accepted him.
The form of Chandraghanta is also associated with bravery and courage. The Goddess is said to protect her devotees from evil and negative energies. Her bell is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring peace and harmony. The Goddess is worshipped during the third day of Navratri, where devotees offer flowers, sweets, and prayers to seek her blessings.
In Hindu mythology, the Goddess is also associated with the planet Venus, which is said to symbolize beauty, love, and harmony. The crescent moon on her forehead represents the connection between the feminine energy and the moon. It is believed that worshipping the Goddess during the Navratri festival can bring happiness, prosperity, and success.
In conclusion, Goddess Chandraghanta is a powerful and revered deity in Hindu mythology. She represents strength, courage, and protection. Her benevolent and fierce form is worshipped during the Navratri festival, and her blessings are sought after for a successful and harmonious life.
