The festive occasion of Chaitra Navratri has commenced with fervor across the nation, marking nine days of auspicious celebrations. After venerating Maa Shailputri and conducting the Ghatasthapana rituals on April 9th, Hindu adherents eagerly anticipate Day 2 of this sacred festival on April 10th. Chaitra Navratri, which inaugurates on the initial day of the Hindu Luni-Solar Calendar, is devoted to the reverence of Maa Durga and her nine divine manifestations.
On the second day of this festival, devotees pay homage to Maa Brahmacharini. Maa Brahmacharini, an incarnation of Adi Shakti, is honored on Day 2 of Chaitra Navratri. She embodies the unmarried aspect of Goddess Parvati and was born in Daksha Prajapati’s abode. This form of Goddess Brahmacharini governs Lord Mangal and is depicted walking barefoot with two hands, holding a Jap Mala in her right hand and a Kamandal in her left.
Legend has it that Maa Brahmacharini underwent rigorous penance to win Lord Shiva as her consort. She sustained herself on a diet comprising Bilva leaves, flowers, fruits, and vegetables, and endured harsh conditions while fasting and residing in open spaces. Her unwavering devotion and determination moved Lord Brahma, who blessed her with union with Lord Shiva. However, when her father disrespected Lord Shiva, Maa Brahmacharini immolated herself, wishing for a father in her next life who would honor her husband.
Worshiping Maa Brahmacharini is believed to bestow virtues such as penance, renunciation, ethical conduct, and self-restraint, facilitating the fulfillment of devotees’ aspirations.