Worshiping Chowdeshwari Devi, a revered form of the Divine Mother in Hinduism, is believed to grant devotees protection, courage, and blessings. Known for her fierce yet protective energy, Chowdeshwari Devi is worshiped for overcoming adversities, ensuring victory, and fostering prosperity. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to perform a simple yet respectful puja for Chowdeshwari Devi using eco-friendly, traditional methods.
1. Importance of Worshiping Chowdeshwari Devi
- Divine Protection: Worshiping Chowdeshwari Devi is said to invoke her protective energy, safeguarding devotees from negativity and harm.
- Courage and Strength: Her blessings empower devotees to face challenges with courage.
- Prosperity and Success: Devotees seek her grace for success in ventures and fulfillment in life.
2. Ideal Time and Cleanliness for the Puja
- Timing: Perform the puja on auspicious days like Tuesdays, Fridays, or full moon (Purnima) days. Early mornings are ideal, preferably between 4:00 and 6:00 AM, or evening hours around sunset.
- Cleanliness: Ensure the worship space is clean and free of clutter. Personal cleanliness is essential; take a bath and wear fresh clothes before starting.
3. Attire and Colors to Wear
- Color: It’s auspicious to wear red or yellow, as these colors represent power, prosperity, and the goddess’s energy.
- Type of Fabric: Use cotton or silk for traditional attire as these natural fabrics honor the eco-friendly theme and cultural authenticity.
4. Puja Items Required (Eco-Friendly and Traditional)
- Flowers: Marigold, jasmine, and hibiscus (known to please the goddess) - all sourced naturally.
- Fruits: Bananas, coconuts, and seasonal fruits for offering.
- Incense: Natural, chemical-free incense sticks or cones.
- Diyas: Earthen lamps (diya) with ghee or oil.
- Turmeric and Kumkum: For tilak and offerings.
- Betel Leaves and Areca Nuts: Symbolic offerings.
- Camphor: Biodegradable camphor for aarti.
- Water in Copper Vessel: For offering and purification.
- Eco-Friendly Idol or Picture of Chowdeshwari Devi: Ensure that the idol is made of natural clay or metal to reduce environmental impact.
5. Simple Steps of Puja
- Preparation: Start by arranging the puja items neatly. Place the idol or picture of Chowdeshwari Devi in the center.
- Purification: Sprinkle water around the altar, yourself, and the items with a few drops of holy water (Ganga Jal) to sanctify.
- Invocation (Dhyana): Light the lamp and incense, then chant “Om Chowdeshwari Namah” to invoke her presence. Meditate briefly on her form.
- Offering of Flowers and Fruits: Offer flowers one by one, saying “Om Chowdeshwari Namah” with each offering. Place fruits on the altar.
- Aarti: Perform aarti using an earthen lamp with camphor, moving it in a clockwise direction. Chant her praise, singing hymns or mantras dedicated to Chowdeshwari Devi.
- Prayers and Mantras: Recite simple prayers and mantras such as:
- “Om Chowdeshwari Namah” (for invoking her presence and blessings).
- “Aigiri Nandini Nandhitha Medhini” (a powerful stotra for protection and strength).
- Offering Prasad: Offer freshly prepared prasad (see below for suggestions).
6. Prasad to Prepare
- Coconut and Jaggery Mixture: A traditional offering symbolizing purity and sweetness.
- Sweet Rice (Pongal): Made from rice, milk, and jaggery, this simple dish can be offered as prasad.
- Fruits: Keep a simple assortment of seasonal fruits.
7. Concluding the Puja
- After aarti, offer heartfelt thanks to Chowdeshwari Devi, acknowledging her blessings. Place your hands together in a prayerful gesture, bowing to show gratitude.
- Closing Prayer: Recite a simple closing prayer like:
- “Om Shanti Shanti Shanti” to invoke peace.
- Circle the diya around the altar three times, concluding the puja by gently extinguishing the flame with a flower rather than blowing it out.
8. What to Do with Puja Leftover Items (Eco-Friendly Disposal)
- Flowers and Fruits: Compost or respectfully dispose of flowers and fruits in a garden or under a tree, returning them to nature.
- Water Offerings: Pour leftover water near a plant, as plants will benefit from the sanctified water.
- Incense Ash and Diyas: If possible, bury incense ash and diyas in soil to minimize waste.
By conducting the puja in this eco-friendly and respectful manner, you honor not only Chowdeshwari Devi but also the earth, reflecting her blessings back into nature. This worship is said to bring peace, confidence, and divine support to all areas of life.