Introduction to Navratri Durga Puja
Navratri, the nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, celebrates the eternal triumph of good over evil and symbolizes the victory of righteousness. It is one of the most sacred times of the year, ideal for performing the Shodasha Upachara Puja (the 16-step worship) at home to seek the divine blessings of Durga for strength, wisdom, prosperity, and protection. In this puja, the Goddess is worshipped as an honored guest, with offerings of seating, bathing, food, flowers, and prayers.
This updated guide presents a complete Navratri Puja procedure, integrating authentic mantras from traditional sources along with their meanings and IAST transliterations for easy understanding. Even if Sanskrit is unfamiliar, devotion and sincerity matter most—what pleases Maa Durga is the purity of your heart. By performing this puja at home, families can nurture unity, spiritual growth, and festive joy, especially when complemented with traditional attire and a devotional spirit.
Sharadiya Navratri 2025 Dates and Auspicious Details
This year, Sharadiya Navratri will begin on Monday, 22 September 2025, and conclude on Thursday, 2 October 2025. Maa Durga will arrive riding on an elephant, which is considered an auspicious sign symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and abundance throughout the year.
The auspicious Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana) should be performed on 22 September 2025, during the Pratipada Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin, which begins at 1:23 AM on 22 September and ends at 2:55 AM on 23 September.
The most favorable time for Kalash Sthapana will be between 6:09 AM and 8:06 AM. For those who wish to perform it later in the day, the Abhijit Muhurta (11:49 AM – 12:38 PM) is also considered highly auspicious.
Special Significance of 10-Day Navratri
Uniquely, this year Navratri will be observed for 10 days instead of 9. This rare occurrence happens because one date (tithi) is reduced during Pitri Paksha and added to Navratri Devi Paksha. In 2025, Chaturthi Tithi is extended, making Navratri a 10-day celebration. This increase in Vinayaka Chaturthi tithi is regarded as especially auspicious, magnifying the spiritual energy and blessings of the festival.
During these days, Kanya Pujan will be performed on Ashtami (30 September) and Navami (1 October), while Vijyadashmi will take place on Dashami (2 October). Thus, the extended Navratri of 2025 will be filled with devotion, joy, and auspiciousness, offering devotees even greater opportunities for spiritual upliftment.
Introduction | Puja Materials | Self-Purification | Preliminary Steps | The 16 Steps | Additional Steps | Traditional Attire | Conclusion
Preparation Tips: Clean the puja area thoroughly, set up a Durga murti or picture on a clean altar facing east. Bathe, wear clean clothes, and perform during auspicious times (morning or evening). If Sanskrit pronunciation is difficult, meditate and offer items with love and focus.
Puja Materials
To perform Durga Puja at home, gather the following items to ensure a complete and respectful worship experience:
- Idol/Picture: An image or idol of Goddess Durga, image of Lord Shiva (to accompany Goddess Durga).
- Flowers and Leaves: Fresh flowers (e.g., lotus, marigold), betel leaves, bel leaves, durva grass, and mango leaves.
- Fruits and Sweets: Five types of whole, juicy seasonal fruits (e.g., banana, apple, pomegranate), sweets, coconut laddoos, sesame laddoos, and moa-murki (puffed rice sweets).
- Puja Essentials: Raw turmeric, tender coconut, kalash (pot), sacred thread (moli), new cloth, chandmala (garland), five-wick lamp, single lamp, camphor, incense sticks, and dhooni (incense burner).
- Naivedya Items: Atap or Govindbhog rice for preparing naivedya dedicated to the nine planets (Navagraha).
- Adornments for Goddess: Alta (red dye), sindoor (vermilion), shankha-pola (bangles), bindi (forehead dot), earrings, hand jewelry, new saree, and odhni (veil).
Note: Ensure all items are fresh and clean. Arrange them neatly on the altar for easy access during the puja.
Self-Purification (Atma Shodhanam)
Before beginning the puja, purify yourself physically and spiritually to approach the worship with a clean body and mind.
1. Atma Shodhanam – 1 (Self-Purification)
Procedure: After bathing, sit in a clean place facing east or north. Take water in your right hand from a panchapatra (small vessel) and sprinkle it over yourself while chanting the following mantra.
ॐ अपवित्रः पवित्रो वा सर्वावस्थां गतोऽपि वा। यः स्मरेत् पुण्डरीकाक्षं स बाह्याभ्यन्तरः शुचिः॥
Oṃ apavitraḥ pavitro vā sarvāvasthāṃ gato’pi vā, yaḥ smaret puṇḍarīkākṣaṃ sa bāhyābhyantaraḥ śuciḥ.
Meaning: Whether impure or pure, in any state (sleeping, waking, standing, sitting, moving), one who remembers the lotus-eyed Supreme Being becomes pure externally (body) and internally (mind).
Symbolic Meaning: Cleanses the body and mind, preparing the devotee for worship.
2. Atma Shodhanam – 2 (Achamana for Self-Purification)
Procedure: Take water in your right hand from the panchapatra and perform achamana (sipping water) three times while chanting the following mantras.
ॐ ऐं आत्मतत्त्वं शोधयामि नमः स्वाहा।
Oṃ aiṃ ātmatattvaṃ śodhayāmi namaḥ svāhā.
Meaning: Om, I purify the soul principle, salutations, svaha.
ॐ ह्रीं विद्यातत्त्वं शोधयामि नमः स्वाहा॥
Oṃ hrīṃ vidyātattvaṃ śodhayāmi namaḥ svāhā.
Meaning: Om, I purify the knowledge principle, salutations, svaha.
ॐ क्लीं शिवतत्त्वं शोधयामि नमः स्वाहा।
Oṃ klīṃ śivatattvaṃ śodhayāmi namaḥ svāhā.
Meaning: Om, I purify the Shiva principle, salutations, svaha.
ॐ ऐं ह्रीं क्लीं सर्वतत्त्वं शोधयामि नमः स्वाहा॥
Oṃ aiṃ hrīṃ klīṃ sarvatattvaṃ śodhayāmi namaḥ svāhā.
Meaning: Om, I purify all principles, salutations, svaha.
Symbolic Meaning: Purifies the soul, knowledge, divine essence, and all aspects of being through ritual sipping of water.
Preliminary Steps
Kalash Sthapana (Pot Establishment)
Procedure: Begin Navratri with Kalash Sthapana to invoke divine energy. Fill a pot with water, tie a sacred thread (moli), place five mango leaves and a coconut on top, and invoke sacred rivers. Place it on the altar beside Durga’s image.
ॐ गङ्गे च यमुने चैव गोदावरी सरस्वती। नर्मदे सिन्धु कावेरि जलेऽस्मिन् सन्निधिं कुरु॥
Oṃ gaṅge ca yamune caiva godāvarī sarasvatī, narmade sindhu kāveri jale’smin sannidhiṃ kuru.
Meaning: O Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu, Kaveri, reside in this water.
Symbolic Meaning: Establishes divine presence for the nine days.
Achamana and Pranayama (Purification)
Procedure: Sit facing east, sip water thrice chanting Vishnu’s names, bind shikha (tuft), apply tilak, and perform pranayama for mental and physical purity.
ॐ केशवाय नमः। ॐ नारायणाय नमः। ॐ माधवाय नमः॥
Oṃ keśavāya namaḥ. Oṃ nārāyaṇāya namaḥ. Oṃ mādhāvāya namaḥ.
Meaning: Salutations to Keshava, Narayana, Madhava.
Symbolic Meaning: Purifies body and mind for worship.
Haridra Ganapati Puja
Invoke Ganesha with turmeric to remove obstacles.
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः । हरिद्राचूर्णेन संनादति विघ्नं नाशति सर्वदा ।
Oṃ Gaṃ Gaṇapataye namaḥ. Haridrācūrṇena saṃnādati vighnaṃ nāśati sarvadā.
Meaning: Salutations to Ganesha. With turmeric, he destroys obstacles always.
Procedure: Offer turmeric mound, flowers, kumkum. Symbolic Meaning: Ensures smooth puja.
Sankalpa (Resolve)
Procedure: Hold water, akshat (unbroken rice), and a flower in your right hand. Declare the intent for Navratri puja, specifying date, place, name, and gotra (if known).
ॐ विष्णवे नमः। ॐ विष्णवे नमः। ॐ विष्णवे नमः। ॐ अद्य ब्रह्मणोऽह्नि द्वितीय परार्धे श्रीश्वेतवाराहकल्पे वैवस्वतमन्वन्तरे अष्टाविंशतितमे कलियुगे कलिप्रथमचरणे … (नगर/ग्राम, तिथि, नाम, गोत्र) … मम सर्व पापक्षयपूर्वकं चतुर्वर्गफलप्राप्त्यर्थं शारदीय नवरात्रौ श्रीदुर्गापूजनं करिष्ये॥
Oṃ viṣṇave namaḥ (thrice). Oṃ adya brahmaṇo’hni dvitīya parārdhe śrīśvetavārāhakalpe vaivasvatamanvantare aṣṭāviṃśatitame kaliyuge kaliprathamacaraṇe … (city/village, tithi, name, gotra) … mama sarva pāpakṣayapūrvakaṃ caturvargaphalapraptyarthaṃ śāradīya navarātrau śrīdurgāpūjanaṃ kariṣye.
Meaning: Salutations to Vishnu thrice. Today in Brahma’s second half, Shweta Varaha Kalpa, 28th Manvantara, Kali Yuga’s first phase, in [city/village], on [tithi], [name], born in [gotra], for the destruction of sins and attainment of fourfold goals (dharma, artha, kama, moksha), I shall perform Sri Durga Puja during Sharadiya Navratri.
Symbolic Meaning: Sets the spiritual intent for the puja.
The 16 Steps of Shodasha Upachara Puja
1. Dhyana and Avahana (Meditation and Invocation)
Procedure: Meditate on Goddess Durga’s form (lion-mounted, multi-armed, radiant). Chant the mantra with Avahana Mudra (joined palms, thumbs folded inward) to invite her presence before the murti.
सर्वमङ्गलमाङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके। शरण्ये त्र्यम्बके गौरि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥ ब्रह्मरूपे सदानन्दे परमानन्दस्वरूपिणि। द्रुतसिद्धिप्रदे देवि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥ शरणागतदीनार्तपरित्राणपरायणे। सर्वस्यार्त्तिहरे देवि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः दुर्गादेवीमावाहयामि॥
Sarvamangalamāṅgalye śive sarvārthasādhike, śaraṇye tryambake gauri nārāyaṇi namo’stu te. Brahmarūpe sadānande paramānandasvarūpiṇi, drutasiddhiprade devi nārāyaṇi namo’stu te. Śaraṇāgatadīnārtaparitrāṇaparāyaṇe, sarvasyārttihare devi nārāyaṇi namo’stu te. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ durgādevīmāvāhayāmi.
Meaning: O auspicious of all auspicious, Shiva, achiever of all desires, refuge, three-eyed Gauri, Narayani, salutations to you. In Brahma’s form, ever blissful, supreme bliss, granting quick success, Narayani, salutations to you. Protector of the helpless, remover of all sorrows, Narayani, salutations to you. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I invoke Durga Devi.
Symbolic Meaning: Invites the divine presence into the puja space.
2. Asanam (Offering Seat)
Procedure: Take five flowers in anjali (joined palms) and place them before the murti to offer a divine seat to Durga.
अनेकरत्नसंयुक्तं नानामणिगणान्वितम्। कार्तस्वरमयं दिव्यमासनं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः आसनं समर्पयामि॥
Anekaratnasamyuktaṃ nānāmaṇigaṇānvitam, kārtasvaramayaṃ divyamāsanaṃ pratigṛhyatām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ āsanaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Adorned with various jewels and gems, a divine golden seat, please accept it. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer the seat.
Symbolic Meaning: Honors the goddess by providing a sacred seat.
3. Padya Prakshalana (Washing Feet)
Procedure: Pour water at the base of the murti to symbolically wash Durga’s feet.
गङ्गादिसर्वतीर्थेभ्यो मया प्रार्थनयाहृतम्। तोयमेतत्सुखस्पर्शं पाद्यार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः पाद्यं समर्पयामि॥
Gaṅgādisarvatīrthebhyo mayā prārthanayāhṛtam, toyametatsukhasparśaṃ pādyārthaṃ pratigṛhyatām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ pādyam samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Water brought from Ganga and all sacred rivers by my prayer, pleasant to touch, accept it for washing feet. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer padyam.
Symbolic Meaning: Gesture of humility and welcome.
4. Arghya Samarpan (Offering Arghya)
Procedure: Offer scented water (with sandalwood or flowers) in a small vessel before the murti.
गन्धपुष्पाक्षतैर्युक्तमर्घ्यं सम्पादितं मया। गृहाण त्वं महादेवि प्रसन्ना भव सर्वदा॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः अर्घ्यं समर्पयामि॥
Gandhapuṣpākṣatairyuktamarghyaṃ sampāditaṃ mayā, gṛhāṇa tvaṃ mahādevi prasannā bhava sarvadā. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ arghyaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Arghya prepared with sandal, flowers, and rice by me, O great Goddess, accept it and be pleased always. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer arghyam.
Symbolic Meaning: Purifies the goddess’s hands, showing hospitality.
5. Achamana Samarpan (Sipping Water)
Procedure: Offer water for sipping in a small spoon or vessel before the murti.
आचम्यतां त्वया देवि भक्तिं मे ह्यचलां कुरु। ईप्सितं मे वरं देहि परत्र च परां गतिम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः आचमनीयं जलं समर्पयामि॥
Ācamyatāṃ tvayā devi bhaktiṃ me hyacalāṃ kuru, īpsitaṃ me varaṃ dehi paratra ca parāṃ gatim. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ ācamanīyaṃ jalaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: O Goddess, sip this water and make my devotion steadfast; grant my desired boons and supreme liberation hereafter. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer sipping water.
Symbolic Meaning: Refreshes the goddess internally.
6. Snana (Bathing)
Procedure: Offer water or Panchamrita (milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar) to bathe the murti, gently pouring over it or sprinkling.
पयोदधि घृतं क्षीरं सितया च समन्वितम्। पञ्चामृतमनेनाद्य कुरु स्नानं दयानिधे॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः स्नानं समर्पयामि॥
Payodadhi ghṛtaṃ kṣīraṃ sitayā ca samanvitam, pañcāmṛtamanenādya kuru snānaṃ dayānidhe. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ snānaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: With milk, curd, ghee, sugar, perform this Panchamrita bath, O ocean of compassion. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer the bath.
Symbolic Meaning: Cleanses and purifies the divine form.
7. Vastra (Clothing)
Procedure: Offer a moli (sacred thread) or small piece of new fabric as clothing, placing it on the murti.
वस्त्रं च सोमदैवत्यं लज्जायास्तु निवारणम्। मया निवेदितं भक्त्या गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः वस्त्रं समर्पयामि॥
Vastraṃ ca somadaivatyaṃ lajjāyāstu nivāraṇam, mayā niveditaṃ bhaktyā gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ vastraṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: This moon-divine cloth removes shame; accept it, offered with devotion, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer clothing.
Symbolic Meaning: Adorns the goddess with modesty and respect.
8. Abhushana Samarpan (Ornaments)
Procedure: Offer small jewelry pieces (e.g., bangles, necklace) or place flowers as symbolic ornaments on the murti.
हारकङ्कणकेयूरमेखलाकुण्डलादिभिः। रत्नाढ्यं कुण्डलोपेतं भूषणं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः आभूषणं समर्पयामि॥
Hārakaṅkaṇakeyūramekhalākuṇḍalādibhiḥ, ratnāḍhyaṃ kuṇḍalopetaṃ bhūṣaṇaṃ pratigṛhyatām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ ābhūṣaṇaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Necklace, bangles, armlets, girdle, earrings, gem-rich ornaments, please accept them. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer ornaments.
Symbolic Meaning: Enhances the goddess’s divine beauty.
9. Chandan Samarpan (Sandal Paste)
Procedure: Apply sandalwood paste (chandan) to the murti’s forehead or base.
श्रीखण्डचन्दनं दिव्यं गन्धाढ्यं सुमनोहरम्। विलेपनं च कल्याणि चन्दनं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः चन्दनं समर्पयामि॥
Śrīkhaṇḍacandanaṃ divyaṃ gandhāḍhyaṃ sumanoharam, vilepanaṃ ca kalyāṇi candanaṃ pratigṛhyatām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ candanaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Divine sandalwood paste, fragrant and pleasing, accept this auspicious anointment, O benevolent Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer sandal paste.
Symbolic Meaning: Bestows auspicious fragrance and purity.
10. Roli Samarpan (Kumkum Offering)
Procedure: Apply roli (kumkum) to the murti as a symbol of Akhand Saubhagya (unbroken prosperity).
सिन्दूरं शोभनं रक्तं सौभाग्यं सुखवर्धनम्। सौभाग्यं कुरु मे देवि सिन्दूरं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः सिन्दूरं समर्पयामि॥
Sindūraṃ śobhanaṃ raktaṃ saubhāgyaṃ sukhavardhanam, saubhāgyaṃ kuru me devi sindūraṃ pratigṛhyatām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ sindūraṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Red sindoor, radiant, enhancing prosperity and happiness, grant me fortune, O Goddess, accept this sindoor. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer sindoor.
Symbolic Meaning: Invokes marital bliss and prosperity.
11. Kajjalarpan (Kohl Offering)
Procedure: Offer kajal (kohl) symbolically to enhance the goddess’s divine vision.
कज्जलं कज्जलं कज्जलं नेत्रयोः शोभति सदा। नेत्रयोः शोभनं कुरु कज्जलं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः कज्जलं समर्पयामि॥
Kajjalaṃ kajjalaṃ kajjalaṃ netrayoḥ śobhati sadā, netrayoḥ śobhanaṃ kuru kajjalaṃ pratigṛhyatām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ kajjalaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Kohl, kohl, kohl, always adorning the eyes, make the eyes beautiful, accept this kohl. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer kohl.
Symbolic Meaning: Enhances divine vision and protection.
12. Saubhagya Sutra (Sacred Thread Offering)
Procedure: Offer a sacred thread (moli) or saubhagya sutra, placing it on the murti.
सौभाग्यं सुखदं दिव्यं सौभाग्यसूत्रमुत्तमम्। सौभाग्यं कुरु मे देवि सूत्रं च प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः सौभाग्यसूत्रं समर्पयामि॥
Saubhāgyaṃ sukhadaṃ divyaṃ saubhāgyasūtramuttamam, saubhāgyaṃ kuru me devi sūtraṃ ca pratigṛhyatām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ saubhāgyasūtraṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: This divine, joy-giving, supreme saubhagya sutra, grant me fortune, O Goddess, accept this thread. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer the saubhagya sutra.
Symbolic Meaning: Bestows prosperity and auspiciousness.
13. Sugandhita Dravya (Scent Offering)
Procedure: Offer perfume or scented oil, applying or placing near the murti.
सुगन्धितं सुपुष्टं च सर्वं सौभाग्यदायकम्। सुगन्धं सर्वदा शान्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः सुगन्धितं समर्पयामि॥
Sugandhitaṃ supuṣṭaṃ ca sarvaṃ saubhāgyadāyakam, sugandhaṃ sarvadā śāntaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ sugandhitaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Fragrant, nourishing, granting all prosperity, accept this ever-peaceful scent, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer scent.
Symbolic Meaning: Welcomes with divine fragrance.
14. Haridra Samarpan (Turmeric Offering)
Procedure: Offer turmeric (haldi) powder, sprinkling it on the murti or placing it nearby.
हरिद्रां शुभदां शुद्धां सौभाग्यं सुखवर्धनम्। हरिद्रां च मया दत्तां गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः हरिद्रां समर्पयामि॥
Haridrāṃ śubhadāṃ śuddhāṃ saubhāgyaṃ sukhavardhanam, haridrāṃ ca mayā dattāṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ haridrāṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Pure, auspicious turmeric, enhancing happiness and fortune, accept this turmeric offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer turmeric.
Symbolic Meaning: Purifies and invokes auspiciousness.
15. Akshata Samarpan (Unbroken Rice Offering)
Procedure: Offer akshata (unbroken rice, preferably mixed with kumkum) by sprinkling on the murti.
अक्षतं च शुभं शुद्धं सौभाग्यं सुखवर्धनम्। अक्षतं च मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः अक्षतं समर्पयामि॥
Akṣataṃ ca śubhaṃ śuddhaṃ saubhāgyaṃ sukhavardhanam, akṣataṃ ca mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ akṣataṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Pure, auspicious unbroken rice, enhancing happiness and fortune, accept this akshata offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer akshata.
Symbolic Meaning: Symbolizes prosperity and wholeness.
16. Pushpanjali (Flower Offering)
Procedure: Offer a handful of fresh flowers (e.g., marigold, lotus) in anjali before the murti.
नानावर्णसुपुष्पाणि माल्यं च सुमनोहरम्। पुष्पाञ्जलि मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः पुष्पाञ्जलिं समर्पयामि॥
Nānāvarṇasupuṣpāṇi mālyaṃ ca sumanoharam, puṣpāñjali mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ puṣpāñjaliṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Various colored beautiful flowers and charming garlands, accept this pushpanjali offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer pushpanjali.
Symbolic Meaning: Expresses devotion through nature’s beauty.
Additional Steps
17. Bilvapatra (Bel Leaves Offering)
Procedure: Offer bel (bilva) leaves, ideally with three leaflets, placing them on the murti.
बिल्वपत्रं सदा शुद्धं त्रिपत्रं सुमनोहरम्। बिल्वपत्रं मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः बिल्वपत्रं समर्पयामि॥
Bilvapatraṃ sadā śuddhaṃ tripatraṃ sumanoharam, bilvapatraṃ mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ bilvapatraṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Ever-pure, three-leafed, charming bilva leaves, accept these offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer bilvapatra.
Symbolic Meaning: Represents purity and devotion, sacred to the divine.
18. Dhupam (Incense Offering)
Procedure: Light incense sticks and wave them gently before the murti.
वसन्तं च सुगन्धं च धूपं सर्वं मनोहरम्। धूपं च मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः धूपं समर्पयामि॥
Vasantaṃ ca sugandhaṃ ca dhūpaṃ sarvaṃ manoharam, dhūpaṃ ca mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ dhūpaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Fragrant, charming spring incense, accept this dhupam offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer incense.
Symbolic Meaning: Purifies the atmosphere, invoking divine presence.
19. Deepam (Lamp Offering)
Procedure: Light a ghee or oil lamp and show it before the murti.
दीपं च सुप्रकाशं च सर्वं विश्वप्रकाशकम्। दीपं च मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः दीपं समर्पयामि॥
Dīpaṃ ca suprakāśaṃ ca sarvaṃ viśvaprakāśakam, dīpaṃ ca mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ dīpaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Radiant lamp illuminating the universe, accept this lamp offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer the lamp.
Symbolic Meaning: Dispels ignorance and brings divine light.
20. Naivedyam (Food Offering)
Procedure: Offer prepared food (sweets, fruits, or cooked items like puri, halwa) on a plate before the murti.
नैवेद्यं च सुगन्धं च सर्वं सौभाग्यदायकम्। नैवेद्यं च मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः नैवेद्यं समर्पयामि॥
Naivedyaṃ ca sugandhaṃ ca sarvaṃ saubhāgyadāyakam, naivedyaṃ ca mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ naivedyaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Fragrant naivedya granting prosperity, accept this food offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer naivedya.
Symbolic Meaning: Shares sustenance with the divine.
21. Rituphala (Seasonal Fruits Offering)
Procedure: Offer seasonal fruits (e.g., banana, apple, pomegranate) on a plate before the murti.
ऋतुफलं च सौभाग्यं सुखदं सर्वदा शुभम्। फलं च मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः ऋतुफलं समर्पयामि॥
Ṛtuphalaṃ ca saubhāgyaṃ sukhadaṃ sarvadā śubham, phalaṃ ca mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ ṛtuphalaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Seasonal fruits granting prosperity and happiness, always auspicious, accept these fruits offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer seasonal fruits.
Symbolic Meaning: Offers nature’s bounty to the goddess.
22. Achamana (Sipping Water Post-Meal)
Procedure: Offer water for sipping after naivedya, placing a small vessel before the murti.
आचम्यतां त्वया देवि भक्तिं मे ह्यचलां कुरु। ईप्सितं मे वरं देहि परत्र च परां गतिम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः आचमनीयं जलं समर्पयामि॥
Ācamyatāṃ tvayā devi bhaktiṃ me hyacalāṃ kuru, īpsitaṃ me varaṃ dehi paratra ca parāṃ gatim. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ ācamanīyaṃ jalaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: O Goddess, sip this water and make my devotion steadfast; grant my desired boons and supreme liberation hereafter. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer sipping water.
Symbolic Meaning: Refreshes the goddess post-meal.
23. Narikela Samarpan (Coconut Offering)
Procedure: Offer a coconut, placing it before the murti or breaking it as an offering.
नारिकेलं च सौभाग्यं सुखदं सर्वदा शुभम्। नारिकेलं मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः नारिकेलं समर्पयामि॥
Nārikelaṃ ca saubhāgyaṃ sukhadaṃ sarvadā śubham, nārikelaṃ mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ nārikelaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Coconut granting prosperity and happiness, always auspicious, accept this coconut offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer the coconut.
Symbolic Meaning: Offers an auspicious, complete fruit symbolizing fulfillment.
24. Tambula (Betel Leaves Offering)
Procedure: Offer betel leaves with betel nuts, cloves, and cardamom on a plate before the murti.
पूगीफलं समायुक्तं नागवल्लीदलैर्युतम्। ताम्बूलं च मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वरि॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः ताम्बूलं समर्पयामि॥
Pūgīphalaṃ samāyuktaṃ nāgavallīdalairyutam, tāmbūlaṃ ca mayā dattaṃ gṛhāṇa parameśvari. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ tāmbūlaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Betel nuts with betel leaves, accept this tambula offered by me, O supreme Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer tambula.
Symbolic Meaning: Refreshes and honors the goddess.
25. Dakshina (Gift Offering)
Procedure: Offer coins, money, or a small gift before the murti as a token of gratitude.
पूजाफलसमृद्धयर्थं तवाग्रे स्वर्णमीश्वरि। स्थापितं तेन मे प्रीता पूर्णान् कुरु मनोरथम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः दक्षिणां समर्पयामि॥
Pūjāphalasamṛddhayarthaṃ tavāgre svarṇamīśvari, sthāpitaṃ tena me prītā pūrṇān kuru manoratham. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ dakṣiṇāṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: For the fruitful success of the puja, I place gold before you, O Goddess; be pleased and fulfill my desires. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer dakshina.
Symbolic Meaning: Expresses gratitude and seeks blessings for fulfillment.
26. Pustak Puja (Worship of Books)
Procedure: Worship books used in the puja (e.g., Durga Saptashati) by placing them on the altar and offering flowers.
नमो देव्यै महादेव्यै शिवायै सततं नमः। नमः प्रकृत्यै भद्रायै नियताः प्रणताः स्म ताम्॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः पुस्तकं पूजयामि॥
Namo devyai mahādevyai śivāyai satataṃ namaḥ, namaḥ prakṛtyai bhadrāyai niyatāḥ praṇatāḥ sma tām. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ pustakaṃ pūjayāmi.
Meaning: Salutations to the great Goddess, ever-auspicious Shiva, salutations to nature’s benevolent form, we bow to her always. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I worship the book.
Symbolic Meaning: Honors knowledge and scriptures.
27. Deep Puja (Worship of Lamp)
Procedure: Light a lamp (Deep Deva) and worship it as a symbol of divine light, offering flowers.
शुभं भवतु कल्याणमारोग्यं पुष्टिवर्धनम्। आत्मतत्त्वप्रबोधाय दीपज्योतिर्नमोऽस्तु ते॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः दीपं पूजयामि॥
Śubhaṃ bhavatu kalyāṇamārogyaṃ puṣṭivardhanam, ātmatattvaprabodhāya dīpajyotirnamo’stu te. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ dīpaṃ pūjayāmi.
Meaning: May there be auspiciousness, health, and nourishment; salutations to the lamp’s light for self-realization. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I worship the lamp.
Symbolic Meaning: Reveres the light of wisdom.
28. Kanya Pujan (Worship of Young Girls)
Procedure: Invite young girls (aged 2–10) as forms of Durga. Offer them a sumptuous meal, new clothes, or gifts, and dakshina (money) while chanting the mantra.
सर्वस्वरूपे सर्वेशे सर्वशक्तिस्वरूपिणि। पूजां गृहाण कौमारि जगन्मातर्नमोऽस्तु ते॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः कन्यां पूजयामि॥
Sarvasvarūpe sarveśe sarvaśaktisvarūpiṇi, pūjāṃ gṛhāṇa kaumāri jaganmātarnamo’stu te. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ kanyāṃ pūjayāmi.
Meaning: O embodiment of all forms, ruler of all, full of all powers, accept this worship, O youthful Goddess, salutations to the world’s mother. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I worship the young girl.
Symbolic Meaning: Honors the divine feminine in young girls, amplifying blessings.
29. Nirajan (Aarti)
Procedure: Perform aarti with a camphor or ghee lamp, circling it before the murti while singing Durga Aarti.
नीराजनं सुमाङ्गल्यं कर्पूरेण समन्वितम्। चन्द्रार्कवह्निसदृशं महादेवि नमोऽस्तु ते॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः कर्पूरनीराजनं समर्पयामि॥
Nīrājanaṃ sumāṅgalyaṃ karpūreṇa samanvitam, candrārkavahnisadṛśaṃ mahādevi namo’stu te. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ karpūranīrājanaṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Auspicious aarti with camphor, radiant like moon, sun, and fire, salutations to the great Goddess. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer camphor aarti.
Symbolic Meaning: Illuminates devotion and dispels negativity.
30. Pradakshina (Circumambulation)
Procedure: Circumambulate the murti three times from left to right, holding flowers, or offer flowers symbolically.
प्रदक्षिणं त्रयं देवि प्रयत्नेन प्रकल्पितम्। पश्याद्य पावने देवि अम्बिकायै नमोऽस्तु ते॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः प्रदक्षिणां समर्पयामि॥
Pradakṣiṇaṃ trayaṃ devi prayatnena prakalpitaṃ, paśyādya pāvane devi ambikāyai namo’stu te. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ pradakṣiṇāṃ samarpayāmi.
Meaning: Three circumambulations offered with effort, witness today, O purifying Goddess, salutations to Ambika. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, I offer pradakshina.
Symbolic Meaning: Encircles the divine with devotion, seeking blessings.
31. Kshamapan (Seeking Forgiveness)
Procedure: Bow before the murti, seeking forgiveness for any errors in the puja.
अपराधशतं देवि मत्कृतं च दिने दिने। क्षम्यतां पावने देवि देवेशि नमोऽस्तु ते॥ ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः दुर्गादेव्यै नमः अपराधान् क्षमस्व॥
Aparādhaśataṃ devi matkṛtaṃ ca dine dine, kṣamyatāṃ pāvane devi deveśi namo’stu te. Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ durgādevyai namaḥ aparādhān kṣamasva.
Meaning: A hundred errors committed by me daily, O purifying Goddess, forgive them, salutations to the queen of gods. Om Bhurbhuvah Svah, salutations to Durga Devi, please forgive my errors.
Symbolic Meaning: Expresses humility and seeks divine grace.
Celebrate with Traditional Attire
Embrace the Festive Spirit with Sarees
Navratri is not only about rituals but also about celebrating with elegance and tradition. Wearing traditional colorful new clothes, sarees enhance the festive spirit, aligning with the cultural vibrancy of the festival.
Conclusion
Celebrating the Shodasha Upachara Durga Puja at home during Navratri is a beautiful way to invite the divine presence of Goddess Durga into your life. Through devotion, you welcome her blessings of courage, wisdom, and prosperity. As you complete the puja, share prasadam with your loved ones, seek the blessings of elders, and extend compassion through annadanam (offering food to those in need) according to your ability. Involve your family in the rituals to fill the home with joy, togetherness, and sacred energy. Navratri is not only a time of worship but also a celebration of love, kindness, and community. May Goddess Durga’s divine grace light up your heart and guide you towards strength, peace, and abundance.