Chaitra Navratri Brahmacharini Puja 2026

Brahmacharini Puja falls on Chaitra Shukla Vidiya, the second day of Chaitra Navratri, when Goddess Brahmacharini — the second Navadurga — is worshipped. She embodies tapas, discipline and perseverance, and in Vasanta Navratri she is honoured on the day after Ugadi.

The Story of Her Penance

Born as Himavan's daughter, Parvati was guided by Sage Narada to win Lord Shiva through penance. She lived first on fruits and roots, then only on fallen leaves, and finally gave up even leaves — earning the name Aparna. The Puranas say her tapas shook the three worlds until Shiva, pleased, accepted her as his consort. As a maiden in penance she is called Brahmacharini. She walks barefoot in white garments, holding a japamala in her right hand and a kamandalam in her left.

Dadhana karapadmabhyam akshamala kamandalu | Devi prasidatu mayi brahmacharinyanuttama ||

Puja Vidhanam

• Bathe early and light the lamp before the kalasham and the Goddess.
• Decorate her with white flowers, jasmine and lotuses.
• Chant "Om Devi Brahmacharinyai Namaha" 108 times on a japamala.
• In some traditions sugar or rock sugar (patika bellam) is offered as naivedyam; milk and fruits may also be offered.
• Families observing Sri Rama Navaratrulu continue their Ramayana parayanam today.
• Offer harathi and pray for perseverance in studies and sadhana.

Niyamas and Message

Self-restraint is the heart of Brahmacharini worship. Eat moderately, keep silence for some time, and cut down on phone and entertainment to make room for japa and meditation. Those fasting may take fruits and milk, choosing what suits their health. Yogic tradition links this day to the Swadhishthana chakra.

Blessings

Devotees believe Brahmacharini grants courage that does not waver in hardship, focus on one's goal and concentration in learning. Students preparing for exams and those beginning a new practice especially remember her. It is a day to gain strength to keep the good resolutions made at the start of the new year.

May the ascetic Mother Brahmacharini bless us all with perseverance and peace.