Navaratri Day-2
Devi Brahmacharini (Dwitiya Avatar)
देवी ब्रह्मचारिणी । (Devi Brahmacharini)
दधाना करपद्माभ्यामक्षमालाकमण्डलू ।
देवी प्रसीदतु मयि ब्रह्मचारिण्यनुत्तमा ॥
Devi Brahmacharini (one who observes the state of purity and does Tapasya ) .The second most powerful embodiment of Goddess Durga is Devi Brahmacharini, who prayed for over a thousand years to prayer Lord Shiva. The word Brahmacharini means a female student who lives with her guru along with fellow beings and obeys her guru.
According to mythology, the virgin Parvati was determined to marry Lord Shiva. Her parents discouraged her from getting married to Lord Shiva. However, Parvati did not lose hope and decided to win over Shiva. She started to live in the mountains like Shiva and engaged in austerity and tapa like Shiva. It is this aspect of Parvathi that is supposed to be that of Goddess Brahmacharini. Her dedication pleased both Lord Shiva and her parents, and she tied the knot with Lord Shiva.
Alankar:
On the second day of Navaratri, Devi Brahmacharini is worshipped. She is depicted to be wearing white clothes, holding a Japa mala rosary in her right hand and a kamandal, a water utensil in her left hand, and we can see a garland of lotus and hibiscus flowers around her neck.
Colour: White is a symbol of serenity and purity. She is known for her sincere devotion and determination.
Flowers: Chrysanthemum flowers are offered to Goddess Brahmacharini, considered to be sacred flowers.
Prasadam:Sweet boondi in south/ bhog of sugar and fruits) is offered on this 2nd day.
Mantra: Om Devi Brahmacharini Namaha.
Significance
Devi Brahmacharini, Aparna, and Uma are other names for Devi Brahmacharini. She signifies knowledge, wisdom, austerity, and loyalty. One can also get rid of the obstacles that are impeding their progress. She blesses those who worship her wholeheartedly. specifically on the second day of Navratri.
