During this period, devotees worship Maa Durga.
Kalash is believed to be the abode of all the gods and goddesses, so it should be brand new and pure.
This year, Gupt Navratri will be celebrated from July 6, the day of Shukla Paksha of Ashadha month, as per the Hindu calendar. It is believed that during this period, engaging in the worship of Maa Durga would rid all the problems or defects one is experiencing. On the first day of the period, the ceremony of Kalash Sthapana is carried out, which holds a lot of significance. A renowned astrologer gives more insight into what should be kept in a Kalash.
As per the beliefs, a Kalash consists of gangajal, and all the gods and goddesses reside within it. According to Pandit Nand Kishore Mudgal, an astrologer from Deoghar, Gupt Navratri will be celebrated on Punarvasu Nakshatra after decades.
On the first day of Gupt Navratri, the devotees install Kalash to mark the occasion. Usually, they use Kalash made with stuff like copper, brass or clay. Since it’s the abode of all the gods and goddesses, according to the believers, it should be brand new and pure. Furthermore, it will please Goddess Durga and your wishes will be fulfilled.
Pandit Mudgal says that after the Kalash puja is over, it is released on a river. So, a Kalash made of clay is ideal to use during the Gupt Navratri. It is made from soil, something which is believed to be sacred and pure. So, within the Kalash made of clay, things like kalawa, coconut, gangajal, red coloured cloth, Mauli and some akshat are to be kept. While establishing the Kalash, the soil should not have any black spots. If found, immediately replace it. Devotees believe that it could have negative effects on the worship.
According to the pandit, Kalash Sthapana can be done between 05.11 am and 07:26 AM, on July 6. If you are unable to conduct it during this time, then you can also do it between 11 am to noon.