During Navratri, the 9 forms of Maa Durga are worshiped and there is a religious tradition of burning unquenchable flames for 9 days. Lighting the extinguished Akhand Jyoti during Navratri has special significance. Navratri festival is celebrated on Pratipada Tithi of Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. Chaitra Navratri has started from 22 March 2023 and Hindu Nav Sambatsar 2080 has also started.
This year mother came by boat on Navratri. During Navratri there is a religious ritual of lighting unlit lights in front of Maa Durga. If you follow the rules while lighting Akhand Jyoti, you get the blessings of the Goddess.
Akhand Jyoti means the flame of a lamp which burns continuously for 9 days. It is a religious belief that lighting an unlit flame brings prosperity to the home and obtains the blessings of the goddess and fulfills wishes.
Jyoti needs to have someone with her to look after her. Lighting Akhand Jyoti means that mother stays in the house for 9 days, so before lighting Akhand Jyoti, perform mother’s puja according to the rules.
Before lighting the Akhanda Jyoti, spread a red cloth and if you are lighting the Jyoti, place wheat under it.
Ghee or mustard-sesame oil can be used to light the flame. Akhand Jyoti should be placed on the right side of Maa Durga.
Before lighting Akhand Jyoti, worship Lord Ganesha, Maa Durga and chant Maa Durga’s mantra Om Jayanti Mangala Kali Bhadrakali Kripalini Durga Kshama Shiva Dhatri Swaha Swadha Namostu.
