The second day of Navratri is devoted to Maa Brahmacharini, a form of Maa Durga wherein She is depicted as a young girl dressed in white, holding a garland of Ashtdal in Her right hand and a kamandal in Her left. These symbols, along with the knowledge of Durga Shastras, are associated with the concept of Dharini Brahmacharini and the Nigmagam Tantra-Mantra.The term 'Brahmacharya' comes of two words: 'Brahma,' signifying divine manifestation, and 'Charya,' meaning self-control.

In practice, brahmacharya represents a life of celibacy, control over the senses, and observance of fasting.

The embodiment of all cosmic energy, efficiency, and the elaboration of inner strength, Maa Brahmacharini possesses knowledge of all the variables and constants of existence.

Revered as the Goddess of penance, Maa Brahmacharini exercised severe Tapasya (penance) for years to win Lord Shiva as her husband, earning Her

the title of Tapascharini. Initially sustaining only on fruits and Bilva Patra, later She renounced even that, entering a deep meditative state. Impressed by Her devotion, Mahadev (Lord Shiva) accepted Devi Parvati as His wife.

Worshiping Maa Brahmacharini by offering Her with devotion, hibiscus, lotus, and white fragrant flowers, She bestows knowledge upon you, elevates your intelligence quotient and helps to resolve all problems.

The planet Mars, that bestows good fortune is governed by Maa Brahmacharini.

Also, it is good to offer sattvik items ( sugar, jaggery powder, milk, and milk-based) to Maa Brahmacharini.

On this day, Light a lamp (diya) in your home temple and Maa Durga should be anointed with Ganga jal. Afterwards, you should offer akshat (unbroken rice), vermilion, red flowers to Her and recite Durga Saptshati

Simple and majestic, Maa Brahmacharini is gentle, free from anger, and bestows blessings benevolently.

Worshiping Maa Brahmacharini enhances knowledge, perseverance, renunciation, discipline, and virtue. In Her grace, even the most challenging times see the devotee tread the right path.

The altar for Maa Durga or the puja room is ideally set up in the north zone of the premises. If otherwise, the east or north-east corners are suitable alternatives. The idol of Maa Durga should not exceed 10 feet in height.

The idol of Goddess Shailputri must graciously be placed upon a plinth (chowki), ensuring at least an inch of space between the idol and the wall.

Drawing a turmeric Swastika at the main entrance of the house besides a toran made of mango and ashoka leaves is an auspicious welcome to Maa Durga.

To boost elevated energies, planting a Tulsi in the northeast corner of your home promotes happiness and health while offering medicinal benefits.

South East corner of the home is ideal to place the Akhand-Jot (the largest Diya), that wards all negativity away.

The mantra of Maa Brahmacharini:

वया देवी सर्वभूतेषु मां ब्रह्मचारिणी रूपेण संस्थिता।

नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः।।

दधाना कपाभ्यामक्षमालाकमण्डलू।

देवी प्रसीदतु मयि ब्रह्मचारिण्यनुत्तमा।

न्दे वाञ्छितलाभाय चन्द्रार्धकृतशेखराम्।

वृषारूढां शूलधरां शैलपुत्रीं यशस्विनीम्॥

Written By: Ms. Aarna Jai Madan, Vastu & Interior Consultant