Shailaputri Devi
The name Shailaputri Devi is derived from Sanskrit words "shaila" (mountain) and "putri" (daughter), meaning "daughter of mountain". Shailaputri Devi is the first of the nine forms of Goddess Durga in Hinduism, who is especially worshipped on the first day of Navratri.
Shailaputri is considered to be the incarnation of Parvati, the daughter of Himalaya and wife of Lord Shiva. She has a trident in one hand and a lotus flower in the other, and she rides on a Vrishabha (bull). Worshiping her gives mental peace and desired results to the devotees.
Importance of Shailaputri Devi
First Form: Shailaputri Devi is the first of the nine forms of Goddess Durga during Navratri. She is worshipped on the first day of Navratri, which brings positivity and peace in the lives of devotees.
Symbol of power: She is the daughter of Parvataraja Himalaya and the incarnation of Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. Shailaputri Devi is worshipped as the power of creation and the mother of all living beings.
Simplicity and courage: Goddess Shailaputri is considered a symbol of simplicity, purity, and courage. Her worship increases patience, peace, and courage in devotees.
Muladhara Chakra: Goddess Shailaputri is associated with the Muladhara Chakra, which symbolizes the energy and base force of life. Worshiping this chakra brings stability and balance in life.
Shailaputri Devi Puja Vidhi
Cleanliness: First of all, take a bath and wear clean clothes and purify the place of worship.
Kalash Sthapana: Fill the Kalash with water and place mango leaves and coconut in it to do Kalash Sthapana. Place it at the place of worship as a symbol of Maa Durga.
Mantra Chanting: Chant the mantra of Goddess Shailaputri, like "Om Shailaputryai Namah". Chant the mantra at least 108 times.
Flowers and incense: Offer red flowers to the goddess and light incense sticks.
Prasad: Offer naivedya (prasad) of cow ghee and jaggery to the goddess.
Aarti: Finally, perform the aarti of the goddess and sing praises of the mother along with all the family members.
Pranam: After finishing the puja, bow to the goddess and receive blessings from her.
Worshiping Shailaputri Devi brings peace, prosperity, and strength in life. Her blessings remove all kinds of sorrows and sufferings.