Mata Brahmacharini – The Ascetic Maiden
Mata Brahmacharini is the second form of Navadurga and is worshipped on the second day of Navratri. Her name is derived from “Brahma,” which in this context signifies tapas (penance) and charini (one who practices). As her name suggests, Brahmacharini represents immense devotion, perseverance, and the path of penance.
Mythological Background
In this form, the Goddess is known for her deep penance. Brahmacharini is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati who, in her previous birth, was Sati, the daughter of Daksha and the consort of Lord Shiva. After Sati immolated herself, she was reborn as Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas, also called Hemavati.
According to the legend, Narada Muni visited Parvati when she was playing with her friends and foretold her destiny. He revealed that she would marry a “naked, terrifying ascetic” (Lord Shiva) in this life, just as she had in her previous incarnation as Sati. However, to attain Shiva as her husband again, she would need to perform severe penance. Inspired by this prophecy, Parvati made a solemn vow to marry none other than Shiva, and thus, she embarked on a long journey of austere penance, earning the name Tapacharini or Brahmacharini.
The Penance of Brahmacharini
The legend of Brahmacharini’s tapasya is a testament to her dedication and unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva. During her penance, she lived a life of extreme hardship. For 1,000 years, she sustained herself on a diet of fruits and flowers. For another 100 years, she subsisted on leafy vegetables, sleeping on the forest floor.
Her penance grew even more intense. For 3,000 years, she survived on the diet of Bilva leaves while worshipping Lord Shiva. Eventually, she even stopped consuming Bilva leaves, giving up all food and water. This level of dedication and her abstinence from all forms of comfort earned her the name Aparna.
As a result of her deep penance, she was able to win Lord Shiva’s heart, and she became his eternal consort once again.
Symbolism and Iconography
Mata Brahmacharini is depicted walking barefoot, symbolizing her journey of penance. She is usually shown with two hands, carrying a Jap Mala (rosary) in her right hand, which represents continuous meditation and devotion, and a Kamandal (water pot) in her left hand, symbolizing the simplicity and discipline she maintained during her tapasya.
This form of the Goddess radiates peace, spiritual strength, and purity. Her determination and unwavering focus in achieving her goal reflect the qualities that devotees seek to embody by worshipping her.
Rituals and Worship
Mata Brahmacharini is worshipped on the second day of Navratri. Devotees revere her as the Goddess of penance and discipline, praying for strength, wisdom, and the resolve to overcome difficulties in life. She governs the planet Mars (Mangal), believed to influence courage, strength, and auspicious fortunes.
Devotees offer Jasmine flowers, her favorite, during the puja and chant mantras, prarthanas, and stotras in her honor to seek her blessings for peace and the removal of obstacles.
Mantra:
ॐ देवी ब्रह्मचारिण्यै नमः॥
Om Devi Brahmacharinyai Namah॥
Prarthana:
दधाना कर पद्माभ्यामक्षमाला कमण्डलू।
देवी प्रसीदतु मयि ब्रह्मचारिण्यनुत्तमा॥
Dadhana Kara Padmabhyamakshamala Kamandalu,
Devi Prasidatu Mayi Brahmacharinyanuttama.
Spiritual Significance
Mata Brahmacharini is the epitome of devotion and willpower. Her worship teaches devotees the value of persistence, meditation, and self-discipline. Through her extreme penance, she embodies the spiritual path of inner growth and steadfastness. Those who worship her seek the strength to endure hardships, remain focused on their spiritual goals, and attain mental and emotional peace.
Her stuti praises her qualities and acknowledges her as a remover of the three types of sufferings (Tapatraya):
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु माँ ब्रह्मचारिणी रूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥
Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Brahmacharini Rupena Samsthita,
Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.
Brahmacharini Kavacha (Protection Armor)
Devotees also recite the Kavacha for protection from negative influences and for the fulfillment of desires:
त्रिपुरा में हृदयम् पातु ललाटे पातु शङ्करभामिनी।
अर्पण सदापातु नेत्रो, अर्धरी च कपोलो॥
Tripura Mein Hridayam Patu Lalate Patu Shankarabhamini,
Arpana Sadapatu Netro, Ardhari Cha Kapolo.
Conclusion
Mata Brahmacharini’s story is an inspiration for unwavering commitment and deep devotion. By following the path of Brahmacharini, devotees learn to embrace self-discipline, patience, and the power of perseverance. Worshipping her brings spiritual knowledge, inner peace, and the ability to remain focused in the face of challenges.