Today marks the first day of Chaitra Navratri, celebrating the goddess Shailputri, the initial manifestation of Goddess Durga. According to scriptures, Shailputri was Sati in her previous birth, who sacrificed her body in response to the humiliation of her husband, Lord Shiva. She is depicted as serene and compassionate, holding a trident in one hand and a lotus in the other, riding on a bull named Nandi, and is therefore referred to as Vrisharudha.

The worship method for Goddess Shailputri involves placing her idol or image on a wooden platform adorned with a red cloth. White items are particularly dear to the goddess, so devotees offer white flowers, sweet dishes, and other offerings made with milk, cow ghee, and coconut. It is believed that performing the ritual of reverence towards Shailputri can help unmarried girls find suitable matches.

Reciting hymns dedicated to Goddess Shailputri is considered auspicious, as it is believed to bestow blessings of prosperity and fortune. This first day of Navratri is not only a time for spiritual practices but also sets the tone for the worship over the nine days, honoring various forms of the goddess and seeking her blessings for well-being and success in one’s endeavors.