Kalash sthapana, also known as ghatasthapana, means the installation or establishment of a kalash or sacred pot. It is an important ritual performed during Navratri and other Hindu festivals.
The kalash symbolizes the divine feminine energy and the womb of the mother goddess. It is considered the abode of the goddess during the festivities.
The ghatasthapana ritual involves filling the kalash with sacred materials like water, seeds, flowers, fruits, and invoking the goddess to descend into the kalash and bless her devotees.
It marks the beginning of the Navratri festivities and is performed on the first day of Navratri. The kalash is kept for the duration of the festival and worshipped daily.
Some key elements of kalash sthapana are:
- Filling the kalash with sacred water and materials
- Installing a coconut and covering it with a red cloth
- Sowing seven types of grains in the base of the kalash
- Wrapping a sacred thread around the neck of the kalash
- Chanting mantras to invoke the goddess and requesting her to reside in the kalash
- Offering flowers, incense, and food to the kalash
The kalash symbolizes the womb of the mother goddess and represents abundance, fertility and prosperity. Kalash sthapana marks the beginning of the Navratri celebrations and allows the goddess to descend and bless her devotees during the festival.
Hope this explanation helps you understand what kalash sthapana means!
Sources
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/festivals/navratri-kalash-sthapana-date-muhurat-vidhi-and-item-list/articleshow/86774084.cms
- https://www.drikpanchang.com/puja-vidhi/kalash-sthapana/kalash-sthapana.html
- https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/navaratri-2022-kalash-sthapna-date-puja-vidhi-muhurat-timings/
