The second day – When Penance and Celebration Walk Together

Today is the second day of Navratri, and by now, people have settled into the rhythm of the festival. Fasts are being observed with more focus, garba nights are in full swing, and families are more punctual for evening aartis as compared to the first day.

While the first day of Navratri was dedicated to the Goddess Shailputri, the second day is dedicated to Brahmacharini, the symbol of devotion, penance, and inner strength.

The Story of Devotion That Shook Heaven and Earth

How far would you go to achieve your dreams? Could you cross mountains, bend rivers or even completely break the cycle of life and death? The Goddess Sati did just that. She gave up her life, only to be reborn as Parvati.

From childhood, Parvati’s heart would only beat for Shiva. Her parents even warned her, saying, “Shiva is a hermit, how can you live with him?” In spite of all this, Parvati remained committed to her goal, marrying Shiva.

She left her palace and all that she owned behind, choosing the uninhabited, deserted mountains instead.

She meditated for 5000 years, never wavering, always determined. Even when Shiva himself tested her resolve, she never faltered.

This unbreakable devotion saw the rise of the Goddess’ second form, Brahmacharini, the goddess of penance and discipline.

The White-Clad Goddess of Simplicity

The word ‘Brahmacharini’ means ‘unmarried woman’, as well as ‘One who walks the path of devotion’. She is often shown wearing simple white clothes, and wears Rudraksha beads and flowers instead of ornaments.

She holds a rosary of Rudraksha beads in one hand, and a simple pot of water in the other.

The worship of Brahmacharini is connected to the Swadishtana Chakra of the Kundalini Life Energy, as well as the planet Mars, symbolizing energy, courage, and creativity.

Another part of her story says that the demon Prakandasur tried to disturb her penance, but when she opened her eyes, the fiery power she gained from her penance destroyed him completely.

Finally, admiring her dedication towards her goal, Shiva agreed to marry Parvati.

The Goddess Who Teaches Us to Never Give Up

The story of Parvati in the form of Brahmacharini is a story about human willpower. She shows us that true strength is in patience, focus, and sacrifice, and not in swords or riches.

In today’s fast-paced world of constant distractions, Brahmacharini’s story is a reminder that if we stay focused on our goals, even the universe will bend in our favour.

During Navratri, devotees wear white and pray to her for inner strength and clarity.

They seek her blessings so that they may show the same discipline in their lives, because success, like Shiva, belongs only to those who never give up

Parvati meditated for 5000 years to achieve her dream. What are you willing to give up or endure to achieve yours?