Shubh Navaratri – Day 2
|| Om Devi Brahmacharinyai Namah ||
|| Dadhana Kara-Padmabhyam Akshamala-Kamandalu |
Devi Prasidatu Mayi Brahmachariny Anuttama ||
Goddess Brahmacharini is the second form of Goddess Durga among the nine forms of Navadurga. She is also known as Tapasvini and Tapasyacharini. Her name represents penance, devotion and self-discipline. She is worshipped on the second day of Navaratri. The Goddess holds a japa mala (rosary) in her right hand and a kamandalu (water pot) in her left hand. She represents patience, determination, sacrifice and spiritual strength.
According to Hindu tradition, Goddess Brahmacharini is the form of Goddess Parvati who performed severe penance to marry Lord Shiva. Sage Narada advised her to follow the path of devotion and penance to fulfil her wish.
Parvati began her tapasya with great determination. She faced the difficulties of nature and gradually gave up food. According to traditional stories, she eventually stopped eating even leaves. Because of this, she came to be known as Aparna.
After years of penance and devotion, Lord Shiva accepted Parvati as his wife. This form of Parvati came to be worshipped as Goddess Brahmacharini.
Her story teaches us the importance of patience, sacrifice, self-control, and strong faith. Devotees believe that worshipping her gives them the courage and determination to face life’s difficulties and remain committed to their duties.
In Varanasi, the traditional worship of Brahmacharini Devi is associated with the area near Brahmeshwar. The Kashi Khanda of the Skanda Purana describes the sacred places and religious traditions of Kashi.
Goddess Brahmacharini is worshipped on the second day of Navaratri. Devotees pray to her for knowledge, peace of mind, determination and the strength to overcome difficulties.
Her worship reminds us to remain patient, disciplined and devoted, even when life becomes challenging. Many devotees observe fasts during Navaratri according to their family traditions and health conditions.
The following mantra is chanted to seek her blessings:
|| Dadhana Kara-Padmabhyam Akshamala-Kamandalu |
Devi Prasidatu Mayi Brahmachariny Anuttama ||
The worship of Goddess Brahmacharini reminds devotees that true strength comes not merely from physical power, but from discipline, faith and perseverance.
