The festival of Navratri is considered extremely sacred for the worship of Shakti in Hinduism, while generally, people are aware of the two main Navratris that occur in a year, namely Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri. However, apart from these, two Gupt Navratris also occur annually. One of these is the Ashadha Gupt Navratri, which is set to begin tomorrow. During Gupt Navratri, instead of the common forms of Goddess Durga, the ten Mahavidyas are worshipped in a secretive manner. This period is considered infallible for attaining tantric powers, chanting mantras, and fulfilling special wishes. Let us explore the correct date for Ashadha Gupt Navratri 2026, the auspicious timing for Ghatsthapana, and the detailed worship rituals.
When will Ashadha Gupt Navratri 2026 begin?
According to the Panchang, the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Ashadha month will begin on July 14, 2026, at 3 hours and 12 minutes in the afternoon. This Tithi will conclude on July 15, 2026, at 11 hours and 50 minutes in the morning. In Hinduism, most fasts and festivals are observed based on the Udaya Tithi, which is the date prevailing at sunrise, while for this reason, the first day of Ashadha Gupt Navratri will be considered as July 15, 2026, Wednesday. On this day, devotees will perform the Kalash Sthapana or Ghatsthapana and worship Maa Bhagwati for nine consecutive days.
Significance of Ashadha Gupt Navratri
The significance of Ashadha Gupt Navratri is considered somewhat different from the regular Navratri. While Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri involve the worship of the nine forms of Maa Durga, Gupt Navratri emphasizes the sadhana of the ten Mahavidyas. Religious beliefs suggest that worshipping Maa Kali, Tara, Tripur Sundari, Bhuvaneshwari, Chhinnamasta, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Baglamukhi, Matangi, and Kamala Devi during these nine days grants the seeker special spiritual powers and divine grace. However, common devotees can also pray to Maa Durga, recite the Durga Saptashati, chant mantras, and observe fasts to seek prosperity and happiness for their families.
Why is Ghatsthapana Performed?
The commencement of Gupt Navratri begins with Ghatsthapana. The Kalash is considered a symbol of Lord Vishnu, Brahma, and all deities. It's believed that a Kalash established according to the proper rituals circulates positive energy, happiness, and prosperity in the house throughout the nine days. That's why, it's essential to maintain purity and follow the correct procedure while performing Ghatsthapana.
How to Perform Ghatsthapana in Gupt Navratri
On the morning of July 15, take a bath and wear clean clothes. Thoroughly clean the place of worship and spread a red or yellow cloth there. After this, sow barley in a wide earthen plate or vessel. Establish a copper or earthen Kalash in the middle of these barley seeds. Fill the Kalash with Ganga water and clean water. Place a betel nut, Akshat (unbroken rice), cloves, cardamom, a coin, and some Durva grass inside it. Place five mango leaves on the mouth of the Kalash and install a coconut wrapped in a red cloth on top of it, while tying a Mauli (sacred thread) on the coconut is considered auspicious. Following this, meditate on Maa Durga, light a lamp, and worship the Kalash. Offer red flowers, Roli, Akshat, sandalwood, a Chunari, and fruits to the Goddess. Finally, recite the Durga Chalisa, Durga Saptashati, or Devi Mantras and pray to the Mother for the happiness and prosperity of the family.
Important Points to Remember During Ghatsthapana
Always perform Ghatsthapana in a clean and holy place. Keep your mind calm during the puja and remember Maa Bhagwati with full devotion. Once the Kalash is established, don't move it unnecessarily for nine days. If you've taken a resolution to light an Akhand Deepak (eternal flame), take care of it daily. Also, perform the Aarti and worship of Maa Durga every morning and evening.