According to the Vedic almanac, Shardiya Navratri 2026 begins on October 11. During this festival, there is a tradition of performing special worship rituals for Goddess Durga and observing a fast according to prescribed rites. Religious belief holds that worshipping Goddess Durga alleviates all sorrows in life. A key ritual on the first day of Shardiya Navratri is *Ghatsthapana* (the ceremonial installation of the sacred pot).

During this time, barley seeds are also sown alongside the *Ghatsthapana* ritual. The vessel containing the barley is kept in the prayer area, and after the *Kanya Pujan* (worship of young girls), the barley—along with the soil—is immersed in a holy river. But do you know why barley is sown during Shardiya Navratri? If not, let us explore the reasons behind this practice in detail in this article.

Why is barley sown during Shardiya Navratri?
Sowing barley on the first day of Shardiya Navratri is considered highly auspicious. Religious belief suggests that sowing barley ensures lasting happiness and peace in the home and invokes the continued blessings of Goddess Durga upon the family members.

According to religious traditions, barley is regarded as the first grain. It is worth noting that barley is also considered a manifestation of Lord Brahma. When Lord Brahma created the universe, barley was the very first form of vegetation and grain to emerge. It symbolizes the completeness and the beginning of creation. For this reason, sowing barley on the first day of Shardiya Navratri holds special significance; the *Ghatsthapana* ritual is considered incomplete without it.

The correct method for sowing barley
Soak the barley seeds in water the night before Shardiya Navratri begins.
The next morning, after bathing, take pure soil in an earthen pot for the *Ghatsthapana* ritual.
Spread a layer of soil in the pot and distribute the soaked barley seeds evenly over it. After this, cover the seeds with a very thin layer of soil.

Now, lightly sprinkle water over them.
Place this vessel near the *Chowki* (sacred platform) of Mata Rani or the *Kalash*.
Sprinkle a little water on it daily.
It is customary to worship the barley sprouts alongside the worship of Goddess Durga.
On *Ashtami* or *Navami*, after the *Kanya Pujan* (worship of young girls), immerse it in a holy river along with the other ritual offerings.

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