The tradition of sowing barley seeds along with Kalash Sthapana during Navratri is considered a symbol of happiness, prosperity, and progress in the home. Devotees perform this ritual with clean soil, Gangajal (holy Ganges water), and seeds. It is believed that the greener the barley grows, the more divine blessings from Mata Rani and prosperity will increase in the home.
Navratri 2025: As Navratri begins across the country, devotees prepare to sow barley seeds along with Kalash Sthapana. This ritual takes place in every household on the first day of Navratri each year and is considered a symbol of welcoming Goddess Durga. According to this tradition, clean soil, Gangajal, and selected barley seeds are sown with proper rituals. Religious belief holds that the greener the barley sprouts during Navratri, the more happiness, prosperity, and positivity enter the home.
Significance of Sowing Barley with Kalash Sthapana
The tradition of sowing barley seeds during Ghat Sthapana on the first day of Navratri has been observed for centuries. It is also known as 'Jaware Bona'. Religious belief holds that Kalash Sthapana and sowing barley are symbolic of welcoming Goddess Durga. It is also believed that the sprouting of barley signifies the family's progress, wealth, and prosperity in the coming times.
Typically, devotees first thoroughly clean the prayer area, then perform Kalash Sthapana with proper rituals, and sow the barley. This ritual is completed on the same day in every household. In many places, this tradition is considered as significant as worshipping the nine forms of the Goddess.
Preparation Before Sowing Barley
For sowing barley, certain items must be prepared. First, clean soil, good quality barley seeds, Gangajal, pure water, and a square or round pot. These items can be easily gathered along with other puja essentials.
It is considered auspicious to soak barley overnight in water for better germination. If soaking overnight is not possible for any reason, the seeds can also be sown early in the morning on the first day of Navratri. The purpose of this process is to provide moisture to the seeds and increase the likelihood of germination.
The Complete Process of Sowing Barley
On the first day of Navratri, thoroughly clean the prayer area. After this, perform Kalash Sthapana with proper rituals.
After Kalash Sthapana, the sowing of barley begins. First, put clean soil in the chosen pot and gently press it down. Then, sprinkle the barley seeds evenly over the soil. After that, cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
Gently sprinkle Gangajal or pure water. Ensure that the water is not excessive.
It is important to sprinkle a little water every day for all nine days of Navratri. Excessive watering can rot the seeds, so maintaining a balance is crucial. Barley sown in this manner usually germinates well by Navami or Dashami.
Religious Significance and Conclusion
The sprouting of 'Jaware' (barley sprouts) is considered an auspicious sign. People regard it as a symbol of wealth, grain, and happiness in the home. At the end of Navratri, the sprouted barley is immersed in a river, pond, or placed under a Peepal or Banyan tree. It is believed that this process completes the worship of Mata Rani, and the coming year will be filled with prosperity and joy.
From a religious perspective, sowing barley is not just a ritual but also a confluence of nature and devotion. This blend of soil, water, and seeds connects devotees with nature and teaches patience and regularity.
According to experts in religious traditions, the process of sowing barley is not just a ritual but also a symbol of energy and positivity. The sprouting of green barley at the prayer site is considered a positive sign.
Moreover, even in modern life, people show interest in observing this tradition because it conveys a message not only of religious faith but also of environmental sensitivity.
