Who is Goddess Brahmacharini and Why is She Worshipped on Navratri Day 2

Navratri, the festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, celebrates nine divine forms of the Goddess known as Navadurga. On Day 2 of Navratri, devotees worship Goddess Brahmacharini, a symbol of strength, devotion, and penance. Dressed in white attire and holding a japamala (rosary) in one hand and a kamandalu (water pot) in the other, she represents purity, dedication, and self-control. Worshipping Brahmacharini on Dwitiya Tithi blesses devotees with wisdom, peace, and spiritual growth.

The word Brahmacharini comes from two Sanskrit roots:

• Brahma means the supreme spirit, divine knowledge, or ultimate reality.


• Charini refers to one who follows a path or conduct.


• Thus, Brahmacharini means "a female seeker of sacred knowledge" and one who follows the path of devotion and penance.

The Legend of Goddess Brahmacharini

According to sacred texts, Goddess Parvati took the form of Brahmacharini to perform deep penance to marry Lord Shiva. Despite discouragement and hardships, she remained steadfast, living in the mountains, fasting, and meditating for thousands of years.

During her penance, demons like Prakandasura tried to disrupt her austerities. But divine intervention and her immense tapas (penance) destroyed evil forces. Finally, Lord Shiva, disguised as a Brahmachari, tested her devotion. Pleased with her resolve, Shiva revealed his true form and accepted her as his consort.

This phase of Goddess Parvati’s journey reflects determination, patience, and unshakable faith, which is why devotees worship her as Brahmacharini during Navratri.

Symbolism of Brahmacharini

• White attire: Purity and simplicity


• Japamala: Devotion and meditation


• Kamandalu: Self-discipline and renunciation


• Abode in Svadhishthana Chakra: Governs creativity and emotions

By worshipping her, devotees gain strength to overcome hardships and receive blessings of wisdom, endurance, and inner peace.