Goga Navami 2023 is just around the corner, scheduled for September 8, 2023. This auspicious day is celebrated with great fervor, particularly among the Valmiki community in Rajasthan, but it is also observed in Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana. Believed to facilitate the path to parenthood, this festival holds immense significance. Let’s delve into the auspicious timings, rituals, and the legendary tale associated with Goga Navami.
Pic Credit| Google
Goga Navami, falling on the Krishna Paksha Navami of Bhadrapad month, is an event eagerly awaited by devotees. This year, the festivities commence on September 7, 2023, at 04:14 PM and conclude on September 8, 2023, at 05:30 PM. It is essential to be aware of the auspicious timings during this period to maximize the benefits of your prayers.
Here are the key Muhurats to keep in mind:
- Morning Muhurat: Begin your day with devotion, as the auspicious hours stretch from 07:36 AM to 10:45 AM.
- Afternoon Muhurat: The midday period holds significance too, from 12:19 PM to 01:53 PM.
- Evening Muhurat: Conclude your celebrations with evening prayers from 05:01 PM to 06:35 PM.
Pic Credit| Google
Gogadev, also known as Jaharveer, is considered the local deity in Rajasthan. On Goga Navami, devotees rise early in the morning to prepare special offerings for Gogadev. These offerings often include kheer (sweet rice pudding), choorma (a sweet dish made from flour), and pakodas (deep-fried snacks). Preparing these offerings with devotion is a way of expressing reverence and seeking blessings for prosperity and fertility.
Women play a significant role in the celebration. They create idols of Goga Ji from clay and adorn them beautifully. In some regions, a mounted idol of Goga Dev is worshipped, and horses are fed pulses as a symbolic gesture of honoring the deity’s connection with horses.
One of the most cherished aspects of Goga Navami is the recitation of the divine tale of Goga Dev. Devotees gather to listen to this inspiring story, which narrates the extraordinary life of Goga Dev and his unwavering commitment to dharma (righteousness).
Another unique tradition associated with this festival is the practice of sisters untying the rakhi (a sacred thread) they had tied to their brothers on Raksha Bandhan, and then offering it to Goga Dev. This ritual symbolizes the siblings’ bond and reflects the belief that Goga Dev’s blessings ensure the well-being and protection of brothers.
Pic Credit| Google
According to an ancient tale, Goga Ji’s mother, Bachal Devi, had longed for a child for many years but remained childless. One fateful day, Guru Gorakhnath, a revered sage, arrived in the Gogamadi forest to meditate. Bachal Devi approached him and shared her heartfelt desire for a child. In response, Guru Gorakhnath gave her a fruit to eat and blessed her, prophesying that her son would grow up to be a valiant warrior, a master of serpents, and a revered disciple among sages.
Nine months later, Bachal Devi gave birth to a son, whom she named Gugga. As time passed, he became renowned as Goga Dev, carrying forward the legacy of Guru Gorakhnath’s teachings. Goga Dev’s life exemplified courage, righteousness, and his unique ability to control and protect against snake bites.
Conclusion
Goga Navami 2023 is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of faith, family bonds, and the triumph of good over evil. As you participate in the festivities or learn about this auspicious day from afar, remember the profound significance it holds. It’s a reminder that faith and devotion have the power to bring miracles into our lives, whether it’s the blessing of children, protection from harm, or the strength to face life’s challenges with unwavering courage. May Goga Dev’s blessings illuminate your path on this special day.