Navratri is a nine-day festival celebrated by Hindus all over India. The word Navratri means nine nights, and during this festival, Hindus worship various forms of Goddess Durga. The festival is celebrated twice a year, once in the spring season, known as Chaitra Navratri, and once in the autumn season, known as Sharad Navratri. The latter is more widely celebrated.
In this article we will discuss about the Significance of Khetri/Barley/Jau during the Navratri Festival.
Rituals and Customs of Navratri Festival:
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Ghatasthapana:
The first day of Navratri is known as Ghatasthapana, which means “establishing the pot.” On this day, a pot is filled with soil, and barley seeds are sown in it. This pot is considered to be a symbol of Mother Earth, and the seeds represent fertility and growth. The pot is kept in a sacred place and is worshipped every day.
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Colors of Navratri:
Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, and each day has a specific color associated with it. The colors are as follows:
- Day 1: Grey
- Day 2: Orange
- Day 3: White
- Day 4: Red
- Day 5: Royal Blue
- Day 6: Yellow
- Day 7: Green
- Day 8: Peacock Green
- Day 9: Purple
Devotees wear clothes of the corresponding color on each day of the festival.
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Durga Puja:
The main event of Navratri is the Durga Puja, which is performed on the eighth day of the festival. The puja involves the worship of Goddess Durga, who is believed to have nine forms, each with its own significance. During the puja, devotees offer flowers, sweets, and other items to the goddess and chant mantras in her praise.
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Kanya Puja:
The ninth day of Navratri is known as Mahanavami and is dedicated to the worship of young girls, known as Kanyas. Devotees invite young girls to their homes, wash their feet, and offer them food and gifts. This ritual is called Kanya Puja and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Importance of Navratri Festival in Hinduism:
Navratri is an important festival in Hinduism and has several mythological beliefs associated with it. According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga fought against the demon Mahishasura for nine days and nights and finally defeated him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Vijayadashami. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the power of the divine feminine.
Navratri is a festival of joy, devotion, and spiritual awakening. It is a time when people come together to celebrate the divine feminine and seek the blessings of Goddess Durga. The festival is not just about rituals and customs, but it is also a time to reflect on one’s own spiritual journey and strive towards inner peace and enlightenment.
What is the meaning of “Khetri” earthen pot?
The “Khetri” earthen pot is a traditional practice observed during the Navratri festival in India. It is an earthen pot or holder that is filled with sand or soil, and barley seeds are planted in it. During the nine days of the festival, the seeds are watered only with a minimal amount of water, as adding more water may hinder their growth.
People who observe Navratri fasts and perform Durga Saptashati puja often keep a Khetri pot in their homes during the festival.
The Navratri Festival starts with the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar, and people usually observe fasts for nine days. However, fasting for the entire nine days is not mandatory, and some may choose to fast only for the first and last day, or the first and second day.
The barley seeds symbolize the fertility and abundance of the earth, and their growth is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to the home. The practice of planting barley seeds in an earthen pot is mentioned in many mythological stories and is associated with the creation and growth of the universe.
Why Do We Sow Barley Seeds (Khetri) during Navratri Festival
Navratri, which means “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is a festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, who represents the divine feminine and is worshipped as the supreme mother goddess in Hinduism. The festival is celebrated over a period of nine days and nights, and each day is associated with a different manifestation of the goddess. The festival culminates with Vijayadashami, which marks the victory of good over evil.
The Ritual of Sowing Barley Seeds During Navratri Festival
One of the most important rituals during Navratri is the sowing of barley seeds. Sowing barley seeds during Navratri is considered to be an auspicious ritual, and it has a significant symbolic meaning. The act of sowing the seeds is also seen as a form of worship, where devotees offer the seed to the goddess and seek her blessings for growth and prosperity.
In this article, we will delve into the significance of sowing barley seeds during Navratri, drawing from Hindu scriptures and mythology to understand the deeper spiritual meaning behind this age-old tradition.
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Symbolism of the Barley Seed and Pot
The pot in which the barley seeds are sown is considered to be a symbol of Mother Earth, and the seeds are seen as a representation of life. It is a reminder that life is a cycle of birth, growth, and decay, and by sowing the seed of life, we can seek the blessings of the divine and nurture our own growth and prosperity.
Barley as a Symbol of Life, Fertility, and Growth
In Hindu mythology, barley is considered to be a symbol of fertility and growth. It is believed that the sowing of barley seeds during Navratri represents the planting of the seed of life, which will grow and flourish with the blessings of Goddess Durga.
Historical and Cultural Importance of Barley in Hinduism
Barley is one of the oldest crops cultivated by humans, and it has been used as a staple food for thousands of years. It is a versatile crop that can be used for a variety of purposes, including as food, feed, and for brewing beer and whiskey. In many cultures, barley is considered to be a symbol of sustenance, and it is associated with abundance and prosperity.
Barley in Hindu Mythology
In the Hindu scripture, the Rigveda, barley is referred to as yava, and it is considered to be one of the five principal crops grown in ancient India. The Atharva Veda also mentions the use of barley in various religious rituals, and it is believed that the crop was an important part of Vedic culture.
Invocation of Divine Blessings and Prosperity
During Navratri, the sowing of barley seeds is seen as a way to invoke the blessings of the divine and ensure prosperity and growth in life. Barley seeds are a potent symbol of fertility and growth, and by sowing them, devotees seek to imbue their lives with these qualities.
The barley plant is also considered to be a holy plant in Hinduism, and it is believed that its consumption can purify the body and mind. Therefore, at the end of the nine-day festival, the sprouted barley is offered to the deity as a form of prasad or holy offering which is believed to confer blessings and good fortune on the worshipper.
Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits of Barley
In addition to its symbolic significance, barley is also a nutritious crop that is rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins. Its consumption is believed to promote good health and vitality, and it has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
In Ayurvedic medicine, barley is used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders and respiratory problems. Its consumption is believed to promote good health and vitality.
The Spiritual Connection Between Humans and the Natural World.
Overall, the sowing of barley seeds during Navratri represents a powerful connection between the material and the spiritual, and it is a reminder of the deep interdependence between humans and the natural world.
We hope that this article has shed some light on the significance of sowing barley seeds during Navratri and provided a deeper understanding of this age-old tradition. We encourage readers to continue learning about the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Hinduism and other world religions, and to approach these traditions with an open mind and heart. As always, we welcome your comments and feedback, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.: Can the Khetri earthen pot predict your future?
It is believed that the growth of barley seeds planted in the Khetri can give insights into future events. If the seeds sprout quickly and grow well, it is believed that the home will experience prosperity and happiness in the future.
However, if the seeds do not germinate after two or three days, it is believed that one may have to face struggles and work harder to achieve their goals. If the seeds do not grow at all or show very little growth, it is believed that there may be some unlucky or negative events that may occur in the near future. The Khetri (barley) earthen pot is thus considered to be a source of divination and a way to gain insights into one’s future.
Q.: What should we do with Khetri after Navratri Festival?
A: On the last day of Navratri, the Khetri earthen pot should be immersed in a flowing stream like a river or a pond. If there is no water body nearby, then the Khetri can be kept under a Peepal tree in a temple.
Q.: Why is barley used during Navratri?
A: Barley is considered a form of Lord Brahma and is worshipped during Navratri along with Ghatasthapana. It is also installed in the Kalash. Since barley is the first crop of the Rabi season, it is considered a symbol of food and is thus respected.
Q.: On which side should the Kalash be placed during Navratri?
A: The Kalash should be placed in the North-East direction of the temple and should be installed on the first day of Navratri before setting up Mata ki Chowki.
Q.: What should be done with the coconut after Navratri Puja?
A: After worship, the coconut should be kept in the vault. At night, take out the coconut and offer it to a Ganesh temple. Also, pray to Lord Ganesha to remove poverty. This should be done for at least five Fridays. In some places, the coconut is cut and distributed as prasad during the eighth or ninth day of the Navratris.
Q.: What happens if you tie a coconut in a black cloth?
A: If there is a problem caused by Saturn, Rahu or Ketu, such as an obstacle in work, unknown fear or someone harming your family, then to remedy this, take a watery coconut and wrap it in a black cloth on a Tuesday.
Q.: What should be done if Khetri is not growing?
A: As mentioned earlier, very little water should be used in sowing barley seeds in the Khetri. If it is not growing, it could be due to using too much water or too many seeds that have not germinated due to crowding. Another belief is that if there is any misfortune or illness in the house, the Khetri may not grow as it is considered a symbol of prosperity.
Disclaimer: It is important to note that the beliefs and practices described in this article are based on Hindu scriptures and mythology, and may not necessarily reflect the views or beliefs of all Hindus or those of other faiths. Additionally, it is important to consult with a qualified expert before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle based on the information provided in this article.
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