Navratri 2024 Ghatasthapana Sthapana: Do's and Don'ts

Navratri 2024 Ghatasthapana Sthapana

Navratri, one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals, marks the victory of good over evil. It is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her nine forms. This year, Shardiya Navratri will commence from Thursday, October 3, 2024. A key ritual that initiates the nine-day festivities is Ghatasthapana, also known as Kalash Sthapana. This ritual symbolises the invocation of Goddess Shakti and sets the tone for a prosperous and joyous Navratri.

To ensure the ritual is performed in an auspicious manner, there are certain do's and don'ts one must follow. Our scriptures have clearly defined guidelines to perform Ghatasthapana, and adhering to them is crucial to receive the divine blessings of the Goddess. Here is a comprehensive guide on the do's and don'ts of Ghatasthapana during Navratri 2024:

Kalash Sthapana 2024: Do's for Ghatasthapana

• Choose the Right Time: The most auspicious or Shubh Muhurta for Ghatasthapana is during the first one-third of the day when Pratipada Tithi is prevailing. If the suitable Muhurta is not available, the ritual can be performed during the Abhijit Muhurta.
• Consider Lagna (Ascendant): While determining the Muhurta, consider Lagna as well. During Shardiya Navratri, Dvi-Svabhava Lagna Kanya (Virgo) prevails during sunrise, and it is considered a suitable time for Ghatasthapana if other conditions are met.
• Perform Before Hindu Midday: Ensure the ritual is performed before Hindu midday and before sixteen Ghatis (approximately 6 hours and 24 minutes) have passed since sunrise.
• Prepare the Kalash with Care: Clean the Kalash thoroughly and fill it with water. Add betel leaves, grains, and a coin inside the pot. Place a coconut wrapped in a red cloth on top, and secure it with a sacred thread (mouli). This signifies purity and protection.
• Sow Barley Seeds: Take a small clay pot filled with soil and sow barley seeds in it. The sprouting of these seeds over the nine days symbolises prosperity and growth.

Kalash Sthapana 2024: Don'ts for Ghatasthapana

• Avoid Inauspicious Times: Ghatasthapana should not be performed during Amavasya (New Moon) or night-time, as these are considered inauspicious periods.
• Prohibited Yogas and Nakshatras: While it is not strictly prohibited, it is advised to avoid Nakshatra Chitra and Vaidhriti Yoga during Ghatasthapana. If these Yogas prevail during the most suitable Muhurta, try to perform the ritual before Hindu midday.
• Refrain from Afternoon and Late Evening: Afternoon and late evening times are strictly forbidden for Ghatasthapana. If you are unable to perform the ritual in the morning, it is better to wait for the next suitable Muhurta rather than performing it at an inauspicious time.

Ghatasthapana is a symbolic representation of inviting Goddess Durga to reside in your home throughout the nine days of Navratri. It is believed that performing this ritual with utmost devotion and care brings peace, prosperity, and success. By following the prescribed guidelines and avoiding the prohibited timings, devotees can ensure that the ritual is performed correctly and auspiciously.

Navratri is a time for spiritual growth, self-reflection, and invoking the blessings of Goddess Durga. As you prepare for Shardiya Navratri 2024, ensure that you perform Ghatasthapana at the right time, following all the do's and don'ts mentioned in our Vedic scriptures. May Goddess Durga bless you and your family with health, wealth, and happiness during this Navratri!

Happy Navratri!

Also Read: Navratri 2024: Full 9-Day Schedule and Durga Puja Details