Sharadiya Navratri starts with Ghatasthapana, a ritual in which the use of pottery has special significance. Religious beliefs consider it a symbol of earth element and purity.
Shardiya Navratri 2025: This year, Sharadiya Navratri, starting from 22 September 2025, is one of the major festivals of Hinduism. Nine different forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped in this festival lasting nine days. Navratri begins with Ghatasthapana, which is also known as Kalash installation. Earthen pots are used during this period, which has a deep spiritual and scientific significance. Let us know why earthen pots are used for Ghatasthapana and what is the real reason behind it.
Why use earthen pots?
The use of earthen pots from both religious and scientific perspectives is very important.
- Symbol of Earth element: Soil is considered a symbol of earth element. According to Hinduism, our body is made up of five elements: Earth, water, fire, air and sky. By using earthen pots during Ghatasthapana, we respect the original element of the universe. It is a symbol of the fact that life originates from the earth and eventually merges into it.
- Purification and hygiene: Soil is considered to be the pure and sacred form of nature. It has no chemical elements. They remain pure and sattvic when placing water, barley and other ingredients in an earthen pot. This creates an ideal environment for worship.
- Communication of positive energy: It is believed that soil objects attract positive energy. When the earthen pot is placed on the place of worship, it absorbs the negative energy of that place and communicates positivity. This purifies the atmosphere of the house and receives blessings of deities.
- Traditional Importance: According to centuries -old traditions, earthen utensils have been used in worship and rituals. It is an integral part of our culture and traditions. We follow our ancient traditions using earthen pots.
Gratitude method
First of all, clean the place of worship and lay red cloth on a patel. Put some soil in an earthen pot and spread barley seeds on it. Sprinkle some water on it. Now, tie a holy thread around the earthen pot and fill it with Ganga water or pure water. Place betel nuts, rice, coins and turmeric in the pitcher. Place mango leaves on the pitcher’s mouth and place a coconut above. Place this pitcher on top of the pot in which barley is sown.
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Importance of Ghatasthapana
Ghatasthapana is the first and most important ritual of Navratri worship. It is considered necessary to do it in auspicious time. Through Ghatasthapana, Goddess Durga is called at home to receive her grace and blessings. The pitcher is considered a symbol of the universe and keeping water, grains and other holy items in it gives respect to life and creation.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is taken from religious texts, scholars and astrologers. We are just a medium to convey this information to you. Users should consider these information only as information.