Ashadha Gupt Navratri is a nine-day Hindu festival celebrated in Ashadha (June/July). During this festival, devotees of Durga worship her nine different forms with great devotion and enthusiasm.

Shakambhari Navratri, Gayatri Navratri, Varahi Navratri, and Bhadra Kali Navratri are other names for Ashadha Gupt Navratri. People in northern India celebrate the occasion with reverence and delight. The nine days and nights are considered the most powerful and beneficial for Tantra's practice and accomplishment. Varahi worshippers observe Ashadha Gupt Navratri as the deity is one of the seven Matrikas of Devi Mahatmya.

Significance of Ashadha Gupt Navratri

These nine days are dedicated to nine forms of Durga. Each day holds immense significance and is dedicated to a specific form of Durga. The nine days represent the nine divine manifestations of Durga, each possessing a unique power. Devotees worship all these nine forms to seek blessings and divine grace. Her nine forms are Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri.

During these days, devotees chant Durga Mantras to invoke her divine blessings. They firmly believe that by worshiping each of her forms with devotion and sincerity, they can attain spiritual growth, physical and mental strength, and blessings for a prosperous life. This period is highly significant for people associated with Tantric activities and Shakti sadana.

Mythology Associated With Ashadha Gupt Navratri

Ashadha Gupt Navratri is closely associated with several mythological stories highlighting good's victory over evil.

According to the legend, Mahishasura obtained a boon from Brahma that made him unconquerable. However, with her great power and divine weapons, Durga annihilated Mahishasura and restored peace and harmony in the universe.

Another mythology associated with Ashadha Gupt Navratri is the story of Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana.

It is believed that Rama worshipped Durga during the nine days of Ashadha Gupt Navratri to seek her blessings and guidance in his battle against Ravana. With her abundance of blessings, Rama defeated Ravana and established righteousness.

These stories remind us of the power of goodness and the significance of seeking divine intervention during challenging times.

Ashadha Gupt Navratri 2024 Date

Ashadha Gupt Navratri commences on Saturday, July 6, 2024, and culminates on Monday, July 15, 2024.

Day 10 culminates with Navratri Parana on July 15, 2024.

Chanting religious scriptures such as Durga Saptshati, Devi Mahaatmya, and Shrimad Devi Bhagwat is considered highly auspicious during the Ashadha Gupt Navratri.

It is believed that worshipping the nine deities during the Ashadha Gupt Navratri will bestow their immense powers on the worshippers to accomplish their desires.

Chanting the following Varahi Mantra on Ashadha Gupt Navratri is commendable and beneficial besides Durga Mantras.

||Om Varahi Sarvato Mam Raksa raksa Durge Hum Phat Swaha||

||Om Mahishadhwajayai Vidmahe

Dandahastayai Dhimahi

Tanno Varahi Prachodayat||

Fasting During Ashadha Gupt Navratri

Devotees fast during this occasion to purify their minds and bodies. They refrain from alcohol, non-veg food, and certain spices and follow satvik food. They believe fasting during these nine days detoxifies the body and enhances spiritual awareness.

Devotees also engage in prayers and meditation. They visit the Durga temple, recite Durga Mantras, and perform Havan (Yagna) to invoke her blessings. 

Unique Customs In Different Parts Of India

Ashadha Gupt Navratri is celebrated with unique customs and traditions in different parts of the country. One such custom is performing the Garba and Dandiya Raas dance forms.

People perform these energetic and vibrant dances in groups in traditional attire. The dance movements are synchronized with the music beats, creating a joyful festive atmosphere.