Navratri 2025 Day 1: Worship of Maa Shailputri
Navratri in 2025 begins on Monday, September 22, not October 3 as often misstated. The first day of this sacred festival is dedicated to Maa Shailputri, the Daughter of the Himalayas, who marks the spiritual beginning of nine days devoted to Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms.
Who is Maa Shailputri?
Maa Shailputri is the first form of Goddess Durga to be worshipped during Navratri. Her name translates to “Daughter of the Mountains” (with Shail meaning mountain and Putri meaning daughter). She represents purity, inner strength, and stability.
According to legend, she is the reincarnation of Sati, who immolated herself, and was reborn as the daughter of King Himavat. She is often depicted riding a bull, holding a trident (Trishul) in her right hand and a lotus in her left—symbols of determination and serenity. Worshipping her is said to bless devotees with courage and spiritual energy to begin their Navratri journey.
Why the First Day Matters
The first day, called Pratipada, sets the tone for all nine days. It represents a fresh spiritual beginning, inviting purification, courage, and grounding energy. By honoring Maa Shailputri, devotees prepare themselves to let go of negativity and walk the path of strength and righteousness.
Rituals and Puja Vidhi (22 September 2025)
Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana): A sacred pot symbolizing Durga’s energy is placed. The auspicious time for this on 22nd September 2025 is between 6:14 AM – 7:56 AM (local variations apply).
Purification & Decoration: Homes and puja spaces are cleaned and adorned with flowers, mango leaves, rangoli, and fresh garlands.
Puja: An idol or image of Maa Shailputri is worshipped with kumkum, turmeric, rice, flowers, fruits, and a ghee lamp.
Mantra: “ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः” (Om Devi Shailputryai Namah)
Prayer: “वन्दे वाञ्छितलाभाय चन्द्रार्धकृतशेखराम्।
वृषारूढां शूलधरां शैलपुत्रीं यशस्विनीम्॥”
Prasad: White-colored offerings such as kheer or sweets are prepared.
Fasting: Many devotees observe fasts, consuming only fruits, milk, and Navratri-approved foods.
Aarti & Bhajans: The day concludes with devotional singing and aarti to invoke the goddess’s blessings.
Color of the Day
Traditionally, white is worn on the first day, symbolizing purity and peace. Some almanacs for 2025 also suggest yellow, a color of energy and joy. However, white remains the widely observed color for Pratipada in honor of Maa Shailputri’s calm and divine nature.
Benefits of Worshipping Maa Shailputri.
Inner Strength: Builds confidence and determination.
Emotional Balance: Provides grounding and emotional stability.
Spiritual Growth: Purifies mind and soul, setting the stage for deeper devotion.
Health & Prosperity: Brings natural well-being and harmony in the household.
Celebrations Across India
The first day of Navratri is celebrated with devotion in temples and homes across the country. Communities come alive with rituals, bhajans, and colorful decorations. In many regions, Kanya Puja (worship of young girls) is performed. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, evenings are filled with Garba and Dandiya Raas, while devotional music and gatherings amplify the festive spirit elsewhere.
