Shiv Navratri

OM NAMAH SHIVAY!

Om Try-Ambakam Yajaamahe, 

Sugandhim Pusstti-Vardhanam, 

Urvaarukam-Iva Bandhanaan,

Mrtyor-Mukssiiya Maa-mrtaat!

THIS verse has been beautifully translated by Jamison & Brereton — ‘We sacrifice to Tryambaka the fragrant, increaser of prosperity. Like a cucumber from its stem, might I be freed from death, not from deathlessness!’

I have been an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, known as Sada Shiv. I have had an unwavering faith in His presence throughout my journey for mental, emotional, and physical well-being, which I consider a path towards Moksha. Moksha symbolizes longevity and immortality! Through continuous chanting and praying to Lord Shiva, I seek His divine grace.

Recently, during a candid conversation with Pujari Ashish Sharma from Mahakal Temple, Ujjain, I learned about Shiv Navratri. This revelation was a delightful surprise to me, considering that although I have been a worshipper of Lord Shiva throughout my life, I as unaware of this! The revelation made me reflect on how much more there is to discover about the divine Lord.

Shiv Navratri encompasses nine different manifestations of Lord Shiva, including Uma Mahesh, Chandramouleshwar, Mana Mahesh, and others. This unique tradition, intertwined with the Maha Mrityunjay aspect, holds profound significance and is not found anywhere else in the world. 

The nine-day celebration begins with the worship of Lord Chandramouleshwar and culminates with the divine marriage ceremony, in which Lord Shiva is adorned as the groom with offerings such as fruit and cannabis. Rituals of a traditional marriage, including the applying of sandalwood paste and turmeric during bathing, symbolize the groom's readiness to unite with his beautiful bride.

The term "Navratri" in Sanskrit, signifying "Nine Nights", marks a period when Lord Shiva, in His various forms, initially tries to avoid marriage with Maa Parvati. However, after persistent persuasion by Devtas and Maa Parvati, He relinquishes His ascetic ‘Jogi’ form and appears as "Mohini." The form captivated Parvati's mother and led to the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The Mahakal Temple in Ujjain is the exclusive site where Shiv Navratri is observed for nine days preceding Maha Shivratri. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva during these auspicious days brings blessings and fulfilment in your life. Shiv Navratri is the most cherished festival among devotees.

‘Har Har Mahadev’

May the blessings of Lord Shiva be upon us all.