Navarathiri, the celebration of good over evil, the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura. Here's a quick guide on how to perform your own Navarathiri Poojai at home....

How to set Kolu?

The tradition of Kolu, where idols are placed on beautifully decorated steps. The magic truly begins as women gather to admire the Kolu and welcome Goddess Durga into their homes. It's believed that she takes the form of these little girls to accept our worship.

How to Perform a Simple Navarathiri Pooja at Home:

1. Start by thoroughly cleaning your home, especially the prayer area. A clean and pure environment is essential for conducting any puja.

2. Place statues or images of Goddess Durga on the altar. Add flowers, incense sticks, sandalwood (sudam), coconut, fruits, and prasadham (offerings) to the altar.

3. Present fresh flowers to Goddess Durga while reciting her names and praises, acknowledging her divine attributes.

4. Place fruits and sweets in front of the goddess as a gesture of devotion and gratitude.

5. Light a lamp and perform aarti (ritual of waving light) to conclude the pooja, seeking the blessings of the goddess.

6. Repeat this poojai daily throughout Navarathiri to receive the blessings of Goddess Durga.


Vaastu Tips for Placing Durga Amman at Home:

During Navratri, it's customary to place the idol of Goddess Durga in your home to invite good fortune and prosperity. According to Vastu principles, the correct placement of the idol can enhance the positive energy in your home. Here are some key tips:

- Position the idol of Goddess Durga in the northeast direction, which is considered auspicious for religious activities and promotes positive energy.

- Ideally, your main entrance should also face the northeast. Visitors should see the idol first upon entering, creating an inviting and harmonious atmosphere.

- Before placing the idol, clean the area thoroughly. Consider using a sacred cloth or altar to emphasize the sanctity of the space.

- If you have a dedicated prayer room, place the idol on an elevated platform to show respect and elevate the divine presence.

- The idol should face the west while you offer prayers, which is the traditional orientation for worshipping the goddess.

- Place fresh flowers, incense sticks, and a lit lamp (diya) near the idol daily to invoke blessings.

- Establish a daily prayer routine for continuous devotion, maintaining a strong spiritual connection with Goddess Durga.

- Create a peaceful meditation corner near the idol for quiet reflection and spiritual connection.

- Ensure the space is well-lit with natural or soft lighting to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

- Keep the area clutter-free, maintaining simplicity to preserve the purity of the space.

- Ensure the room is well-ventilated to allow the flow of positive energy.

- Periodically cleanse the idol and the surrounding area with pure water and sprinkle holy water to purify the space.

- Approach the idol with respect and reverence, maintaining a sense of devotion during all rituals.

By following these steps, you can perform a simple yet meaningful Navarathiri pooja at home, fostering a spiritual connection and inviting divine blessings.

Image Credit : HerZindagi, ModernStore