With ten arms holding weapons, a lion as her mount and a crescent moon resembling a bell adorning her forehead, Maa Chandraghanta embodies both fierce power and inner peace. Navratri Day 3 falls on October 13, 2026, when devotees worship the third manifestation of Goddess Durga, seeking courage, protection and strength.
The day follows the worship of Maa Brahmacharini on October 12 and precedes Maa Kushmanda's puja on October 14. According to the Navratri colour sequence for 2026, the colours are orange on October 11, white on October 12, red on October 13 and royal blue on October 14.
Who Is Maa Chandraghanta?Maa Chandraghanta is the third form among the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, collectively known as the Navadurga. She is associated with courage, bravery, tranquillity and the power to overcome fear. Her appearance reflects a unique combination of a warrior's determination and a peaceful, composed nature.
Her name is derived from two Sanskrit words: Chandra, meaning moon, and Ghanta, meaning bell. The crescent moon on her forehead resembles a bell, giving the Goddess her distinctive name. She is traditionally depicted with ten arms carrying various weapons and symbols, while seated on a lion or tiger. Her form is also associated with her married aspect as Goddess Parvati.
Maa Chandraghanta represents the ability to remain calm while confronting challenges. Some astrological traditions also associate her worship with Mars, the planet linked to courage, energy and determination.
Significance Of Navratri Day 3Worshipping Maa Chandraghanta is believed to help devotees overcome obstacles, ward off negative influences and develop inner strength. She is revered as a protective Goddess who grants courage and inspires people to face difficult situations without fear.
Her worship also highlights the importance of mental alertness, confidence and emotional balance. Devotees seek her blessings for peace, protection and the strength to deal with life's uncertainties.
The central message of the day is that true courage does not mean acting without fear. Instead, it means remaining composed, making thoughtful decisions and standing firm during challenging circumstances.
Navratri Day 3 Puja VidhiDevotees can perform Maa Chandraghanta's puja at home by following these traditional steps:
Begin the morning by bathing, wearing clean clothes and preparing the puja area.
Clean the place of worship and arrange the Goddess's image or idol.
Decorate the altar with red flowers, cloth or other traditional offerings.
Offer flowers, incense, a diya and fresh fruits to the Goddess.
Meditate on her divine form and recite her dhyana mantra.
Chant the mantra “Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah” with devotion.
Offer milk, kheer or other milk-based sweets as bhog.
Conclude the puja by performing Durga aarti and praying for courage, peace and protection.
According to the panchang timings provided for Navratri Day 3, Tritiya Tithi begins at 10:14 pm on October 12 and ends at 11:29 pm on October 13. Sunrise in Delhi is expected at approximately 6:21 am. Devotees should consult their local panchang for city-specific timings and suitable puja muhurat.
Bhog: What To Offer Maa ChandraghantaMilk and milk-based preparations are commonly associated with Maa Chandraghanta's offerings. Devotees may prepare kheer, offer milk-based sweets or include fresh fruits and other simple sattvic foods in the bhog.
Kheer made with milk, rice and sugar is a popular choice for the occasion. Those observing a Navratri fast can prepare it according to their household's fasting traditions and dietary practices.
After the puja, the bhog is distributed among family members and devotees as prasad. The offering is made with devotion and gratitude, reflecting the spiritual significance of the festival.
Navratri Day 3 Colour: RedRed is the colour associated with Navratri Day 3 in the commonly followed 2026 colour sequence. It represents energy, courage, strength, passion and devotion, qualities that complement Maa Chandraghanta's powerful form.
Devotees can wear red clothes or incorporate the colour into their puja decorations. A red dupatta, kurta, saree or simple accessory can be an easy way to observe the tradition.
Navratri colour sequences can vary across calendars and regional traditions, so it is advisable to follow the custom observed by your family or community.
Things To Do On Navratri Day 3Along with performing the puja, devotees can observe the day through simple spiritual and mindful practices.
Wear red: Choose a red outfit or add a red scarf, dupatta or accessory to mark the occasion.
Prepare kheer: Make a milk-based sweet as bhog and share the prasad with family members and neighbours.
Chant the Goddess's mantra: Spend a few quiet minutes repeating “Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah” with concentration.
Light a diya: Begin the day with a lamp and a short period of prayer or meditation.
Follow a sattvic diet: If you are fasting, choose foods permitted under your vrat traditions and maintain adequate hydration.
Practise courage: Take one small, constructive step towards addressing a fear or challenge you have been putting off.
Spend time in gratitude: Reflect on the strength and support that help you navigate difficult situations.
These practices allow devotees to connect with the spiritual message of Maa Chandraghanta while incorporating mindfulness and positivity into their daily routines.
A Note For Those FastingAlthough fasting is an important part of Navratri for many devotees, it should be adapted to individual health needs. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and people with medical conditions, including diabetes, should seek personalised medical advice before undertaking a fast.
Choose balanced meals that provide adequate nourishment, and drink enough water if your fasting rules permit it. Avoid extreme dietary restrictions, prolonged fasting or ignoring symptoms such as dizziness and weakness. Devotion can be practised through prayer and meditation without compromising your health.