Who Is Goddess Chandraghanta Worshiped On The Third Day Of Shardiya Navratri?

Shardiya Navratri, a significant festival in the Hindu calendar, takes place in the Ashwin month and honors the nine forms of Goddess Durga, known collectively as Navdurga. Each day of the festival is dedicated to a specific form of the goddess, with distinct religious significance. During this year's Shardiya Navratri, which began on Sunday, October 11, 2026, the third day is devoted to Goddess Chandraghanta, a revered deity symbolizing courage, strength, peace, and protection.

Goddess Chandraghanta is the third among the nine forms of Navdurga. She is believed to shield her devotees from negative energies and bless them with bravery and spiritual strength. Offerings of prayers and devotion to the goddess are made on this day, with the aim of seeking her blessings for peace, prosperity, and the removal of obstacles.

The name 'Chandraghanta' originates from the Sanskrit words 'Chandra,' meaning moon, and 'Ghanta,' meaning bell. The goddess is often depicted with a crescent-shaped moon resembling a bell on her forehead, a distinctive characteristic that lends her name.

The transformation from the previous form, Maa Brahmacharini, to Maa Chandraghanta is a profound one. While Brahmacharini represents the inward spiritual journey, Chandraghanta embodies a balance between serenity and warrior-like strength. She is both compassionate towards her devotees and fierce in her ability to fight against evil, protecting the righteous.

Goddess Chandraghanta is typically portrayed riding a tiger or lion, symbolizing courage and fearlessness. She is traditionally shown with ten hands, each holding various weapons and objects such as a trident, sword, bow and arrow, lotus, and a bell. Her appearance reflects her readiness to confront negative forces while remaining benevolent towards those who worship her with unwavering devotion.