Durga Puja Guide

60–120 minutes Courage & protection Navratri, Ashtami & Durga Puja

Durga is the Mother in her fierce, protective form — Mahishasuramardini, destroyer of what is harmful. This puja is offered through Navratri and whenever a family prays for courage, protection and the strength to face what stands before them.

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Pre-Puja Preparation

Navratri worship begins with discipline of body and speech.

Resolve the vrat (fast)Decide the form of fasting for the nine days — full, fruit-only, or one meal.
Bathe and wear clean red or crimson clothing
Sanctify the puja spaceSweep, mop and sprinkle Ganga jal; keep the area free of footwear and leather.
Check the Ghatasthapana muhuratThe Kalash is installed on the first morning of Navratri at the auspicious time.

Chowki, Kalash & Jyoti

Three things anchor Navratri: the Kalash, the barley bed and the akhand jyoti.

Deity Platform

Chowki against the North-East wall
Fresh red unstitched cloth over the chowki
Durga idol or framed picture, with her trishul and lion visible

Ghatasthapana Setup

Clay pot of soil with barley (jau) seeds sown for the nine days
Kalash with water, coin, supari, mango leaves and a coconut wrapped in red cloth
Akhand jyoti lamp with enough ghee or oil to burn continuously

Devotee Seating

Woolen or kusha asan facing East
Rudraksha or tulsi mala kept for the jaap

Traditions vary by family and region. Follow the practice your elders or presiding priest recommend.

Inner Compass

Durga Puja Guide

Pre-Puja Preparation

Chowki, Kalash & Jyoti

Deity Platform

Ghatasthapana Setup

Devotee Seating

Required Samagri & Offerings

Vessels & Brassware

Offerings & Consumables

Lamps, Fragrance & Text

The Ritual, Step by Step