The Human Cohesion Project — 5 Oct 2024

On this third day of Navaratri, we invoke Chandraghanta, the fierce yet benevolent warrior goddess. Her name derives from the crescent moon, “Chandra,” adorning her forehead, and the sound of the “ghanta” or bell, symbolising the powerful vibrations of her presence. Chandraghanta is the embodiment of divine strength and protection, and she reminds us that while the feminine may be nurturing, it also carries the power to stand fearlessly in the face of adversity.

Chandraghanta’s story is rooted in the transformation of Parvati. Upon her marriage to Shiva (a metaphor for commitment to the path of consciousness), Parvati took on this form to protect her devotees from evil, showing us that even the most tender aspects of ourselves can rise with formidable strength when needed. She rides a tiger, wielding weapons in her ten arms, and the resonant sound of her bell is said to expel negative energies and fear. Today, her energy calls us to embrace the warrior within, to stand firm in our convictions and protect what is sacred to us.

Every year, Navaratri also coincides with the Taoist Nine Emperor Gods Festival, a nine-day celebration that curiously honours nine celestial deities, often seen as representing the masculine aspect of the divine. While Navaratri elevates the power and presence of feminine energy through various forms, the Nine Emperor Gods Festival draws attention to the cosmic order governed by masculine forces. These two festivals, occurring at the same time, offer us a chance to reflect on the balance between yin and yang — the masculine and feminine forces that together shape the universe. Chandraghanta’s form, though feminine, represents a powerful fusion of both energies, offering protection, strength, and grace.

In today’s world, we see the need for this balance more than ever. As conflicts escalate and crises multiply, the importance of harmonising strength with compassion becomes clear. We are called to be like Chandraghanta, fierce in our protection of what is right, yet steady in our commitment to peace. As we reflect on the overlapping masculine and feminine energies during these festivals, we are reminded that balance is not found in dominance, but in coexistence and mutual respect.

Shubh Navaratri. May Chandraghanta’s courage guide us through today’s challenges, and may we seek harmony in the balance of energies, both within and beyond.

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