Navratri 2024: Akhand Jyot Rules and Significance

Akhand Jyot (Image: Canva)

The festival of Navratri is a vibrant celebration dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, representing the triumph of good over evil. One of the most significant rituals during this nine-night festival is the lighting of the Akhand Diya, or eternal lamp. The concept of the Akhand Diya comes from akhand jyoti, or the eternal flame, which is referenced in the Mantra Mahabodhi, a holy text of mantras. This tradition emphasizes that chanting in front of Agni (fire) enhances spiritual practices and intentions.

Navratri 2024: Significance of the Akhand Diya

The Akhand Diya is more than just a source of light; it symbolizes continuous devotion and commitment to Goddess Durga throughout the festival. Lighting this diya serves as an offering of reverence and faith, marking a spiritual journey over the nine days of Navratri.

The beliefs surrounding the Akhand Diya reflect its importance in fostering a sacred environment in the home. Some of the widely held beliefs include:

• Bringing Wealth: Lighting an Akhand Diya is said to attract prosperity and abundance into the household.
• Symbol of Purity and Power: The flame represents the purity of intentions and the power of devotion.
• Welcoming Good Health: It is believed to promote wellness and drive away ailments.
• Enhancing Knowledge: The light of the diya dispels ignorance, symbolizing enlightenment and wisdom.
• Signifying Good Fortune: The act of lighting the diya is a gesture of inviting goodness and positivity into one’s life.

The Akhand Diya, also known as the eternal flame, serves as a beacon of light, purity, and protection. Here are some key benefits associated with it:

• Connection with the Divine: Fire, one of the five essential elements, is believed to establish a profound connection with the creator.
• Healing Energies: It is said to remove diseases from the household and promote overall health.
• Purification of the Atmosphere: The light and warmth from the diya eliminate negative energies, filling the home with positivity and peace.
• Destruction of Harmful Particles: The ghee or oil used in the Akhand Diya is said to neutralize harmful particles, enhancing the sanctity of the home environment.

To ensure the effective lighting of the Akhand Diya during Navratri, there are several rules to keep in mind:

1. Choose the Right Diya: Use a silver, brass, or earthen lamp to light the Akhand Jyoti. If using an earthen lamp, soak it overnight to prevent oil leakage.
2. Placement: Always place the Akhand Jyoti on a raised platform. Create an eight-petalled lotus (Ashtadal) using gulaal (colored powder) and rice on this platform, positioning the diya to the right side of the Goddess or temple in your home.
3. Wick and Oil: For a longer-lasting flame, use a long and thick wick. Always use mustard oil, ghee, or sesame oil for lighting the diya, ensuring the wick doesn’t become completely submerged.
4. Monitoring: Keep an eye on the oil level in the lamp, replenishing it as necessary to maintain the flame.