Navratri Fasting, Rules, and Maa’s Blessings – Guidance from Sastri Vallabh Ji

Navratri Fasting and Worship Rituals: Understanding the 9 Forms of Maa Durga with Sastri Vallabh Ji

Navratri is one of the most sacred festivals in India, dedicated to the nine divine forms of Goddess Durga. It is a time of deep devotion, discipline, and spiritual reflection. Many people observe fasts, perform special pujas, and seek the blessings of the Divine Mother. In a special podcast, spiritual scholar Sastri Vallabh Ji shared powerful insights on how to observe Navratri the right way.

"Shakti, Bhakti aur Anushasan: Navratri Vrat ka Sahi Tarika"

According to Sastri Ji, the goal of Navratri fasting is not just to avoid food but to purify the mind, speech, and actions. Begin your day with a bath and wear clean clothes. Light a lamp in front of Maa Durga’s idol or picture and offer roli, rice, and flowers. Setting up a Kalash and lighting an Akhand Jyot (eternal flame) is also considered very auspicious.

Spiritual Importance of Maa Durga’s Nine Forms
Each day of Navratri is dedicated to one of the nine powerful forms of Maa Durga, each carrying a unique spiritual message:

Shailputri – Symbol of strength and stability

Brahmacharini – Represents penance and devotion

Chandraghanta – Brings peace and protection

Kushmanda – Creator of the universe

Skandmata – The nurturing mother

Katyayani – The warrior goddess of justice

Kaalratri – Destroys evil and darkness

Mahagauri – Symbol of purity and compassion

Siddhidatri – Grants wisdom and spiritual powers

Each form is worshipped with specific offerings and rituals as described in the scriptures.

Rules and Discipline During the Fast
During Navratri, it is important to follow a satvik (pure) diet. Include foods like buckwheat flour, sabudana, fruits, milk, and rock salt (sendha namak). Avoid onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Control your thoughts, speech, and actions. Stay away from gossip, lies, anger, and negative behavior.

Significance of Bhog and Prasad
Every day, offer Maa her favorite foods as bhog – like jaggery, milk, coconut, or halwa. The offering should be made with devotion and gratitude. Prasad builds a divine connection between you and the goddess.

How to Receive Maa’s Blessings
Sastri Vallabh Ji beautifully shared, “True devotion comes from a pure heart and unconditional love. When your worship is free of selfish desires, Maa showers her blessings.” Navratri fasting is a time not just for physical discipline, but for inner cleansing and spiritual upliftment.

0