Inspiring Lessons of Navratri : Day 1 : Goddess Shailaputri || Anupama Vaidya
9 days, 9 avatars of the Goddess Durga. Worshipped with great dedication and zeal, the celebration of the divine feminine energy, the Goddesses are depicted with different avatars, each with her own significance representing different aspects of human self.
The diversity of qualities of the Goddesses, gentle at times or fierce at another, are symbolic to the our human complexities of emotions and experiences. The nine manifestations of the Goddess offer us valuable wisdom to help us grow and become the finest versions of ourselves.
As the daughter of King Himavat, she stands as a
representation for the Grand Himalayas. Goddess Shailaputri, a manifestation of
Goddess Parvati and reincarnation of Goddess Sati. Revered as the first among
the Navadurga.
She embodies qualities such as purity, stability,
strength, courage, and simplicity. Her depiction
shows two-handed deity with a crescent moon on her forehead, riding a bull,
holding a trident in her right hand, and a lotus flower in her left. Legends tell of her tearing apart the pride of
Gods, including Lord Indra and they recognising her as the ultimate source of
strength. Her presence sets the tone for
the festivities, imparting profound lessons.
Lesson 1: Purity of intent & purpose; Inspiring
a Sense of Purpose
· Her presence at the beginning of Navratri
symbolises spiritual journey characterised by purity of intent and
purpose.
· Commence with a clear and pure intent, driven by a
genuine desire to achieve meaningful goals, unwavering dedication & devotion towards your
purpose, Inspiring others and Instiling the commitment - Shailapturi stands for this devotion and
purity.
· Just as Shailaputri sets the tone for Navratri, lets
inspire ourselves, our colleagues, teams, families and friends with a sense of
purpose and direction, making our mission meaningful.
Lesson 2: Determination, Commitment and Humility
· Shailaputri’s transformation from Sati to
Shailaputri holds an intense lesson of resolute determination and commitment.
Her commitment to her pure purpose when threatened, her dramatic step to jump
into a yagna when her husband Shiva was insulted, and then transforming to be
born as Shailaputri followed by extreme hardship to achieve her goal. Facing
severe challenges as a part of life with great strength.
· Another vital lesson through her transformation
serves as a powerful reminder to give up on arrogance, egotism,
self-importance, and selfishness in leadership. There is no place for these as
we discover the real meaning of the purpose of life.
Lesson 3: Rootedness, stability, consistency; Patience
and Endurance; Connect with Nature and Respect for our environment
· Connection with Himalayas of Shailaputri, signifies
stability, rootedness, consistency, patience, endurance and connection &
respect for nature.
· Like the stability represented by her connection to
the Himalayas, we must remain grounded in our values and principles, providing
stability to all those who are around us. Vital to stay true to one's values
and principles, even during life's trials. (Rootedness, stability,
consistency)
· Mountains endure the test of time, teaching us
patience and perseverance in overcoming life's challenges. (Patience and
Endurance)
· Shailaputri’s connection to nature serves as a
reminder to respect and preserve environment on day 1 of Navratri itself.
Especially important in the Corporate World where environmental responsibility
and sustainability are crucial.(Connection and Respect for Nature)
Lesson 4: Strength in Simplicity, Courage and
fearlessness; decisiveness & risk taking
· Shailaputri's simple attire and demeanor remind us
that true strength doesn't always lie in grandeur or extravagance or complexity.
but can be found in simplicity and a pure sense of purpose. Through simplicity
and elegance with a clear sense of purpose, purity of thought and action can be
powerful forces in life. (Strength in Simplicity)
· Goddess Shailaputri is a fearless warrior; riding a
bull symbolizes fearlessness, inspiring us to confront life's challenges with
courage and determination. Let’s demonstrate the courage to face challenges
head-on and overcome obstacles. Make decisions confidently and quickly. We need to be courageous to take risks and make
tough decision, even when they are difficult. (Courage and fearlessness;
decisiveness & risk taking)
As we rejoice on Day 1 of Navratri, lets commit to
these qualities of Goddess Shailaputri; purity of intent & purpose, courage,
determination, and a deep connection to one’s values, in harmony with nature,
and embracing change. Let us recognize the divine feminine energy within and
around us and take these lessons to hone the leader within each one of us.
Tomorrow we celebrate Goddess Brahmacharini and learn
life lessons through her presence! Blessed Navratri to all of you and wishing
you all magical celebrations this Navratri.
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