Gupt Navratri has commenced today, marking a special nine-day period dedicated to the worship of the 10 Mahavidyas, rather than the traditional nine forms of Goddess Durga. This esoteric festival is primarily significant for tantric practices and the attainment of hidden spiritual powers. Devotees engage in secret rituals and worship the fierce manifestations of Goddess Durga to fulfill their desires.

According to the Hindu calendar, Gupt Navratri begins on the Pratipada Tithi (first day) of the bright half of the Ashadha month and concludes on the Navami Tithi (ninth day). During these nine days, devotees venerate Mahakali, Tara Devi, Tripura Sundari, Bhuvaneshwari, Chhinnamasta, Tripura Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi, and Kamala Devi. Each of these ten Mahavidyas holds unique significance and bestows distinct boons, believed to grant supernatural powers, wealth, and victory over adversaries.

Unlike the more public celebrations of regular Navratri, Gupt Navratri rituals are performed in utmost secrecy. Sadhaks (spiritual practitioners) conduct their observances in secluded spaces within their homes or at specific sacred sites. Special mantras, havans (fire rituals), and other tantric practices are performed during this time. It is believed that sincere devotion to these Mahavidyas brings happiness, prosperity, and success in life, with astrologers suggesting that spiritual practices during this period yield quick results and remove obstacles.