In a recent spiritual gesture, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi sought the blessings of Goddess Chandraghanta, invoking her divine grace to bestow prosperity and glory upon the citizens of India. This act is a testament to the rich tapestry of Indian culture and its deep-rooted spiritual traditions.
Goddess Chandraghanta: The Third Navadurga Aspect
In Hinduism, Chandraghanta is revered as the third Navadurga aspect of Goddess Mahadevi and is prominently worshipped on the third day of Navaratri, a festival that celebrates the nine divine nights of Navadurga. The name “Chandra-Ghanta” translates to “one who has a half-moon shaped like a bell,” which signifies her distinct appearance. She is often depicted with a half-moon adorning her forehead, which takes the shape of a bell, lending her this unique name.
One of the striking features of Chandraghanta is her third eye, which is always open, symbolizing her perpetual readiness to engage in battle against evil forces. She is also known by other names like Chandrakhanda, Vrikahvahini, and Chandrika. Devotees believe that she rewards them with grace, bravery, and courage. Her blessings are thought to eliminate sins, distress, physical suffering, mental tribulations, and ghostly hurdles that may afflict her devotees.
The Legend of Chandraghanta
The legend of Chandraghanta is narrated in the Shiva Purana, and it revolves around the powerful union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Parvati, after her marriage to Lord Shiva, embarked on a new chapter in her life as a married woman. In an act of devotion, she visited Shiva’s abode, a cave, with the intention of making it her home.
However, upon her arrival, she discovered that the cave was unkempt and filled with cobwebs. Parvati, dressed in her wedding attire, decided to take matters into her own hands and began cleaning the cave. Days passed, and she adapted to her new life and the responsibilities it entailed.
Unbeknownst to Parvati, a malevolent demon named Tarkasura had set his sights on Shiva’s family and had nefarious intentions. To disrupt the harmony in their lives, Tarkasura sent his demon, Jatukasura, a bat-like creature, to attack Parvati.
While Parvati was engrossed in her daily chores, Jatukasura and his bat army launched a fierce attack on Shiva’s residence on Mount Kailasa. As they covered the sky with their wings, Parvati, helpless and frightened, sought the assistance of Nandi, Shiva’s loyal bull, but Nandi was nowhere to be found.
Desperate and unable to seek immediate help from Shiva, who was deeply engrossed in meditation, Parvati realized her own inner strength and her role as Shakti, the embodiment of cosmic energy. She decided to confront Jatukasura herself.
The battle began, and to combat the darkness and lack of visibility, Parvati sought the aid of the moon. She placed the crescent moon on her forehead to illuminate the battlefield. Parvati, accompanied by a pack of wolves, battled Jatukasura and his bat army.
In the culmination of the battle, Parvati used a ghanta (bell) to disperse the bats and ultimately defeated Jatukasura, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. This fierce form of Parvati, adorned with a knife and a ghanta, with the moon on her forehead and seated on a wolf, came to be known as Chandraghanta.
The Significance of Chandraghanta
Chandraghanta, as a representation of courage, strength, and the ability to overcome adversities, holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. Her legend teaches us the power of self-reliance, inner strength, and the importance of female empowerment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s act of seeking the blessings of Goddess Chandraghanta underscores the timeless importance of spirituality and tradition in the country. It serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted beliefs and customs that shape India’s diverse and culturally rich society.
