The story of the goddess
Shail means mountain. Born in the home of Himavan, king of the mountains, the goddess is called Shailputri. In her previous life she was Sati, daughter of King Daksha, who gave herself to the sacrificial fire when her father insulted Lord Shiva. Reborn as Parvati, she became Shiva's consort once again. She rides Nandi the bull and holds a trident in one hand and a lotus in the other. Worshipping her is said to steady the mind, the way a mountain stays unmoved.
How to do the puja
Bathe in the morning and place the kalash during the auspicious muhurat. Sow barley in a clay pot, and place mango leaves and a coconut on the kalash. Offer red or orange flowers, light a ghee lamp and chant the mantra 108 times. Finish with the aarti and offer ghee as bhog.
Mantra
ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः
Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah
Wishes to send
May the blessings of Maa Shailputri bring happiness and peace to your home. Warm wishes on the first day of Navratri!
Like a mountain that never moves, may your faith stay strong through every difficulty. Jai Maa Shailputri!
As the kalash is placed, may new joys begin in your life. Happy Navratri!