Chaitra Navratri 2026 Day 1: Maa Shailputri Puja Rituals, Food Offering, Chants And Significance Explained

The divine week Chaitra Navratri 2026 starts on the 19th of March. This spiritual journey of nine days starts with the worship of Maa Shailputri, the ‘Daughter of the Mountains,’ who has the powers of the Himalayas as well as the caring attributes of Mother Earth. She is the first form of Nav Durga, controlling the root chakra, or Muladhara, that gives her disciples the strength of her powers to accomplish the successful completion of the spiritual journey. From the holy Ghatasthapana ritual to the offering of pure desi ghee, Day 1 is not just the beginning of the Navratri celebrations, but an opportunity to ground your soul with the powers of faith and strength.

Who Is Maa Shailputri?

Maa Shailputri is the daughter of the King of Mountains, as Shail means Mountain and Putri means Daughter, and Himavat is the King of Mountains. Maa Shailputri is also seen riding a bull, known as Nandi, and holding a Trishul in her right hand and a Lotus in her left hand. Maa Shailputri represents Muladhara Chakra, or the Root Chakra.

Chaitra Navratri 2026 Day 1 Puja Rituals

The most elaborate ceremony is on the first day, which includes the ceremony of Ghatasthapana.

• Ghatasthapana: In this ceremony, a kalash is filled with holy water, coins, and betel nuts. Mango leaves are kept at the neck of the pot, and a coconut is kept on top of it.

• Sowing Barley: A shallow earthen pot filled with soil is used to sow barley seeds (Jowar), which signifies prosperity and growth.

• Shodashopachara Puja: In this ceremony, the Goddess is offered 16 different kinds of tributes such as flowers, incense, and lamps.

• Red Colours: Since she loves the colour red/white, many devotees wear Red on this day, which signifies action and vigour.

Chaitra Navratri 2026 Day 1 Bhog (Food Offerings)

Maa Shailputri has a special affection for dairy products.

• Primary Offering: Pure Ghee or sweet dishes made of milk obtained from cows.

• Why? It is said that by offering Ghee, the goddess grants the devotee a healthy life, devoid of diseases.

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Chaitra Navratri 2026 Day 1 Mantra (Chants)

Reciting these mantras helps in grounding your energy and seeking the Goddess's protection:

Main Mantra:

Om Devi Shailputriai Namah

Prarthana (Prayer):

Vande Vanchhitlabhay Chandrardhakritashekharam |Vrisharudham Shuladharam Shailputrim Yashasvinim ||

Chaitra Navratri 2026 Day 1 Significance

The first day is all about grounding oneself. Just as one cannot get away from the mountain, Maa Shailputri provides the seeker with the grounding that is necessary to complete the nine-day fast and spiritual journey. Starting the Navratri with the worship of Maa Shailputri is sure to set one’s intentions right and remove any hurdles from the path.

Image credits: Freepik

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