Navaratri Day 3 honors Chandraghanta, focusing on courage, grace under pressure, and protective power. This page is part of Vedic Matters’ day-by-day Navadurga series — nine classical forms, with Vijayadashami as the tenth day’s victory.
Who is Chandraghanta?
Chandraghanta bears a crescent moon (chandra) shaped like a bell (ghanta) on her forehead. She rides a lioness or tiger and embodies beauty joined to readiness for battle.
Symbolism for Day 3
The moon-bell rings warning to fear and invitation to devotees — fierceness that still blesses. Day 3 asks for brave hearts without cruelty.
Puja and home observance
Offer milk sweets or kheer if your tradition allows, ring a small bell during aarti, and pray for protection of family and community.
Mantra
Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah
Chant with a calm breath during aarti. Pair the mantra with the Devi’s visualization described above.
Regional notes
Temple processions and louder dhol nights appear in many towns; women lead Garba circles with bright chaniya cholis.
Continue the series
Previous: Day 2 — Brahmacharini · Next: Day 4 — Kushmanda
Overview: 10 days across India · Hub: Navaratri complete guide.
