"Lalita Panchami"- Paying Homage to one of the NavaDurgas

"Lalita Panchami" is a very significant Hindu festival observed on the fifth day (Panchami tithi) of the waxing phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha) during the month of Ashwin in the traditional North Hindu Lunar Calendar. As per the Gregorian calendar, it comes in the month of either September or October.

This year, "Lalita Panchami" is on the 7th of October ‘24, Monday.

As per Drik Panchang, the "tithi" for 'Lalita Panchami' in ‘24 is as follows:

Lalita Panchami on Monday, 7th of October ‘24

• Panchami Tithi Begins - 09:47 on 7th of October ‘24

• Panchami Tithi Ends - 11:17 on 8th of October ‘24

Lalita Panchami: Coinciding with Fifth Day of Shardiya Navratri

This day is celebrated as the divine appearance of Goddess Lalita, an avatar of Goddess Durga. Therefore, the very auspicious occasion of "Lalita Panchami" is celebrated on the fifth day of "Shardiya Navratri."

Moreover, many believe that she is the tantric incarnation of Goddess Parvati.

According to the Hindu shastras, Goddess Lalita is one of the most important avatar , among the nine avatars of goddess Durga, representing feminine powers of the world.

Goddess Lalita is characterized by a unique fusion of extraordinary wisdom, stunning beauty, and formidable power. Revered as the guiding force of wealth, opulence, diligent effort, and salvation, she embodies a divine essence that encompasses both material prosperity and spiritual enlightenment. Her multifaceted attributes make her a revered figure, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of intellect, aesthetics, and strength in the Hindu pantheon.

She is also referred to as ‘Shodashi’, ‘Tripura Sundari’, ‘Maha Tripura Sundari’, ‘Lilavati’, ‘Lilamati’, ‘Lalithambika’, ‘Kamakshi’, ’Leeleswari’, ‘Lalitagauri’ and ‘Rajarajeshwari.’

Her significance extends to the representation of the 'Pancha Mahabhutas,' symbolizing the five elements—'earth, air, fire, water, and space.'

In the southern regions of India, Goddess Lalita is venerated as a form of Goddess Chandi.

Legend behind "Lalita Panchami":

There's a belief in Hinduism that Mata Lalita has appeared on the earth to annihilate a demon on "Lalita Panchami." The story of the same is as follows:

Once Lord Shiva was into deep meditation. And Kama Deva had tried to disturb him. On this, Lord Shiva got very angry, opened his third eye and turned Kama Deva into ashes.

Later, one of Shiva’s Ganas took the ashes and drew a portrait of a man with it. When Shiva glanced at the figure, it came to life and he blessed him.

Unfortunately, the revived Kama turned into a demon namely 'Bhanda' and began ruling the world with wickedness. To stop him, the king of gods, Indra, organized a special ceremony called yajna. During the ceremony, Maa Shakti, in the form of Lalita sitting on Sri Chakra, appeared. With her power, Lalita defeated Bhanda, and the original form of Kama was restored.

Rituals & Observances on Lalita Panchami:

Devotees whole-heartedly engage in worshiping Maa Lalita, honoring her to seek divine blessings for prosperity and well-being.

In addition to Maa Lalita, Skandamata & Lord Shiva are also worshiped on this day.

A special fast known as "Upang Lalita Vrat" is observed on "Lalita Panchami" to please Maa and seek her divine blessings. People also chant ‘Lalita Sahasranaam’, ‘Lalitopakhyana’, ‘Lalitha Trishati’ & other Vedic mantras related to Maa Lalita.

This fast finds its utmost relevance in many Hindu shastras such as "Kalika Purana" as well. It is believed that by observing "Upang Lalita Vrat", one receives the blessings of all ten Mahavidyas.

As Mata Lalita is known to be the giver of all happiness, praying to her on "Lalita Panchami" bestows one with happiness, wealth, prosperity and peace in their lives. Moreover, it gives relief from all troubles and sufferings in life.

"Lalita Panchami" is primarily observed in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Gujarat.

"Lalita Panchami" draws large congregations of devotees to Goddess Lalita's temples, with people traveling from distant places to partake in the special puja rituals conducted on this auspicious day. In certain regions, vibrant fairs amplify the fervor and enthusiasm surrounding the festivities.

This occasion holds immense significance for those seeking blessings, and reciting Vedic mantras dedicated to Goddess Lalita is deemed highly auspicious. There is a prevalent belief that such recitations, performed on this day, possess the power to swiftly resolve various life challenges, encompassing both personal and business realms.

Lalita Panchami: Symbol of Femininity

Moreover, "Lalita Panchami" is an embodiment of strength, wisdom, and beauty. The festival exalts the divine feminine, symbolizing the prowess of femininity in its myriad forms.

Reinforcing the festival's essence—a homage to the empowering force of femininity that transcends, nurtures, and triumphs. Lalita Panchami stands as a testament to the enduring feminine energy.