Chaitra Navratri 2026: Why you should apply Alta during Navratri, Jai Madaan explains

While it looks like a simple decorative tradition, Alta actually carries a deeper meaning. Jai Madaan explains how it helps invite positivity during Navratri.

The rituals that are usually followed during Navratri or any other Indian festival have a lot to do not just with culture and customs, but also with bringing positivity and balance into people’s lives. One such ritual is Indian women applying Alta during any auspicious event. While it looks like a simple decorative tradition, it actually carries a deeper meaning. According to spiritual expert Jai Madaan, applying Alta helps ground your energy, invite positivity, and strengthen your inner self during Navratri.

Why you should apply Alta during Navratri, Jai Madaan explains (Pinterest)

Jai Madaan explains, “Every time I apply Alta, I’m reminded that our rituals are never random. Something so simple carries so much power.” Traditionally, Alta was even used to heal wounds, underscoring its significance far beyond beauty or decoration.

Why Alta matters during Navratri

• Strengthens grounding and the root chakra: Applying Alta on your feet helps activate and balance the root chakra, which is responsible for stability and security. This practice can help reduce fear and insecurities, making you feel more grounded and emotionally steady.
• Symbol of Devi entering your home: The red footprints made with Alta are believed to represent the arrival of Goddess Durga into your home. Creating these footprints during Navratri is a symbolic way of inviting divine energy and blessings.
• Absorbs the energy of Navras: Jai Madaan suggests making a dot in the centre of your feet and nine dots around it while applying Alta. This is believed to help you absorb the powerful energies associated with the nine forms (Navras) of the Goddess.
• Enhances proper grounding: Applying Alta at the centre of your feet ensures better energetic grounding, helping you stay balanced and connected.
• Represents Shakti and divine feminine energy: Applying Alta to your hands is equally significant. It symbolizes Shakti, consciousness, and the divine feminine energy, strengthening your spiritual connection.

The right way and time to apply Alta

• Choose the right days: Apply Alta on Tuesdays to activate the positive energy of Mars (associated with strength and courage), and on Fridays to enhance the energy of Venus (linked to love, beauty, and harmony).
• Add a simple enhancement for better results: If you are applying Alta on a Friday, add 2 drops of rose water. This small addition is believed to enhance the flow of prosperity, peace, and emotional balance in your life.

In essence, Alta is not just about tradition or aesthetics; it is a mindful ritual that connects you to your roots, your energy, and the divine feminine. This Navratri, taking a few moments to apply Alta with intention might help you feel more grounded, protected, and spiritually aligned.

Disclaimer: This article is based on general beliefs and is meant for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to seek professional guidance for personal decisions.