When we talk about Navratri and its divine significance, each day is dedicated to a unique form of Devi Durga. Among them, the third day is dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta, a fierce and compassionate warrior goddess. She is the embodiment of courage, inner strength, and protection. Her name itself carries powerful meaning: “Chandra” (moon) represents calmness and peace, while “Ghanta” (bell) signifies alertness and victory over evil forces.
Maa Chandraghanta does not represent bravery in a distant, mythical sense. Instead, she teaches us how to be courageous in our daily lives—to fight negativity, injustice, and fear while also nurturing peace and harmony within. In this blog, let’s dive deep into the significance of Goddess Chandraghanta, her symbolism, her stories, spiritual meaning, and the lessons we can draw from her in modern life.
The Form of Goddess Chandraghanta
Maa Chandraghanta is depicted with a half-moon shaped like a bell on her forehead—hence her name. She is shown riding a tiger, symbolizing fearlessness, strength, and determination. With ten arms, she carries divine weapons including a trident, mace, sword, bow-arrow, and lotus. Some hands are in abhaya mudra (gesture of protection) and varada mudra (gesture of blessing), assuring her devotees of both courage and compassion.
Her appearance strikes a divine balance—though fierce against demons, her face always radiates tenderness and motherly love.
Mythological Significance
The story of Maa Chandraghanta is deeply associated with Parvati’s transformation after marrying Lord Shiva. It is believed that after their divine union, Parvati adorned her forehead with a crescent moon in the form of a bell. This symbol came to define her as Chandraghanta.
In one famous myth, when demons challenged the celestial beings, Parvati assumed the terrifying form of Chandraghanta. With her mighty roar, the sound of the bell on her head shook the earth, and her weapons annihilated asuras. Yet, after the battle, she returned to her serene, motherly form and blessed her devotees with peace and prosperity.
This dual nature—both fierce and loving—makes her especially worshiped for protection, peace, and bravery.
Symbolism of Goddess Chandraghanta
Every detail of Maa Chandraghanta’s form carries a symbolic meaning:
- The Crescent Moon (Chandra): Represents mental peace, calmness, and spiritual awakening.
- The Bell (Ghanta): Signifies the sound that destroys negative energies and awakens positivity.
- The Tiger as Her Vehicle: A symbol of unlimited power and confidence in overcoming fear.
- Weapons in Her Hands: A reminder that we must prepare ourselves to fight adversities—both external and internal.
- Blessing Mudras: Symbolize her infinite love and compassion for devotees.
In essence, she is both a mother who nurtures her children and a warrior who fiercely protects them.
Why Worship Maa Chandraghanta During Navratri?
On the third day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Chandraghanta to invite courage, balance, and inner strength into their lives. Here’s why worshiping her is so significant:
- She helps remove obstacles, fears, and insecurities.
- She blesses her devotees with bravery, confidence, and clarity of mind.
- She destroys negative energies and evil influences that surround us.
- She promotes peace and harmony in family and personal life.
- She awakens our inner warrior spirit to face life’s struggles.
Many devotees also believe that her blessings enhance self-discipline and mental stability—qualities much needed in today’s stressful world.
Spiritual Meaning of Goddess Chandraghanta
On a deeper level, Maa Chandraghanta symbolizes the balance between fearlessness and peace. She reminds us that true bravery is not aggression, but a calm ability to stand for what is right while protecting others.
Her crescent-bell forehead represents the idea that we must be alert and aware. The bell’s sound is said to purify negative vibrations and invite spiritual harmony. In yogic philosophy, her worship is connected to the Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus), which governs personal power, energy, and self-confidence.
Thus, connecting with Goddess Chandraghanta is not just a ritual; it is a journey of self-realization and empowerment.
How to Worship Maa Chandraghanta
Traditionally, her worship on Navratri includes rituals to invoke her blessings:
- Early Morning Bath and Clean Space – Devotees begin with purification of body and surroundings.
- Kalash Sthapana (Sacred Pot Installation) – To invite divine energy into the home or temple.
- Offering Flowers, Fruits, and Prasad – Hibiscus and jasmine flowers are considered special. Honey is often offered as a symbol of sweetness and purity.
- Chanting Mantras – Reciting her mantras with sincerity brings peace and strength.
Example: “Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah” - Lighting a Ghee Lamp and Incense – Symbolizing light and purity.
- Meditation – Focusing on her form helps calm the mind and build courage.
Life Lessons from Maa Chandraghanta
The teachings of Goddess Chandraghanta go beyond religious rituals. In fact, she offers timeless wisdom for our daily lives:
- Courage is calm, not aggressive. Bravery is not about winning fights but facing them with clarity and strength.
- We all have a warrior within us. Whether facing struggles in career, relationships, or emotions, her energy inspires us to fight with faith.
- Balance is key. Just like she combines ferocity with motherly love, we must balance our strength with kindness.
- Awareness leads to wisdom. The bell on her forehead reminds us to stay alert, conscious, and mindful in life.
- Peace is as powerful as war. After defeating demons, she spreads harmony—teaching us to resolve conflicts with peace once justice is achieved.
Maa Chandraghanta in Modern Life
Although rooted in mythology, the essence of Maa Chandraghanta is very relevant today.
- For a student, she is the confidence before exams.
- For a professional, she is the willpower to overcome workplace challenges.
- For someone struggling emotionally, she is the inner strength to remain calm yet determined.
- For families, she is a shield of protection and unity.
In a world where stress, fear, and negativity often overpower us, invoking her energy reminds us to live bravely with compassion.
FAQs on Goddess Chandraghanta
Who is Goddess Chandraghanta?
Maa Chandraghanta is the third form of Goddess Durga worshiped on the third day of Navratri. She is a warrior goddess who symbolizes bravery, protection, and peace.
Why is she called Chandraghanta?
She is called Chandraghanta because she wears a crescent moon (Chandra) in the shape of a bell (Ghanta) on her forehead.
What does Goddess Chandraghanta represent?
She represents courage, fearlessness, spiritual awareness, and balance between fierceness and peace.
Why do we pray to Maa Chandraghanta?
Devotees worship her to seek bravery, protection from negative energies, harmony in life, and the confidence to face challenges.
Which day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Chandraghanta?
The third day of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta.
What offerings are considered auspicious for Maa Chandraghanta?
Devotees offer honey, milk, fruits, and flowers like hibiscus and jasmine to please the goddess.
What chakra is associated with Maa Chandraghanta?
She is associated with the Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus), which enhances personal power and self-confidence.
What is the significance of the tiger in Chandraghanta’s imagery?
The tiger represents boldness, strength, and fearlessness—the qualities Maa Chandraghanta bestows upon her devotees.