Must the akhaṇḍa jyoti burn all nine days — what if it goes out?

it is a beautiful vow but not compulsory; if it goes out, relight it calmly with a short prayer — it is not a bad omen.

An akhaṇḍa (unbroken) jyoti is a large ghee or oil lamp kept burning day and night for the nine days, symbolising the Goddess’s constant presence. Families who take it on arrange a big brass lamp, a long thick wick, enough ghee, and a glass cover against drafts, and someone checks it every few hours, including at night.

It is not required for Navarātri worship. A lamp lit morning and evening is fully valid. Take the akhaṇḍa jyoti vow only if your home can keep it safely: away from curtains, children and pets, and never unattended in a locked house.

If it does go out — wind, a short wick, or simply oversight — do not panic or think of it as a sign. Relight it from another lamp or a fresh flame, ask forgiveness for the lapse, and continue. Fear has no place in the Mother’s worship.

Morning and evening lamps are fully valid · Source: common family practice

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