During Navratri, devotees sow barley (jau) seeds alongside the Kalash Sthapana ceremony. It is believed that the color and growth of these sprouts reveal signs of prosperity, challenges, or spiritual success for the coming year. Let’s decode what each color of barley sprouts means according to tradition.
🌿 Green Sprouts – Symbol of Prosperity
Green barley sprouts are the most auspicious. They represent wealth, food, success, prosperity, and overall well-being. It is said that green growth reflects Goddess Durga’s blessings and a successful spiritual practice.
🤍 White Sprouts – Divine Blessings
White sprouts are considered extremely rare and highly auspicious. They indicate wish fulfillment, spiritual progress, peace, and divine grace. Families with white sprouts are believed to enjoy happiness, harmony, and prosperity throughout the year.
🟡 Half Green, Half Yellow – Mixed Results
If sprouts are half green and half yellow, it’s seen as a mixed omen. Initially, efforts may succeed, but later, setbacks or losses can occur. During such times, caution and patience in decision-making are advised.
🌫️ Smoke-Colored Sprouts – Discord in Family
Smoke-like sprouts symbolize disputes and disagreements within the family. They may lead to growing discord and tension in relationships if not handled carefully.
⚫ Black Sprouts – Sign of Financial Struggle
Black sprouts are considered highly inauspicious. They warn of poverty, financial crises, and scarcity in the coming year. Families are advised to face this period with patience and discipline.
🟥 Red or Bloodshot Sprouts – Illness & Enemies
Red-colored sprouts indicate illness, disease, or fear from hidden enemies. Devotees are advised to pray to Goddess Durga for protection, health, and strength during such times.
❌ No Sprouts – A Very Inauspicious Sign
If barley seeds do not sprout at all, it is considered one of the worst omens. It signals constant obstacles in work, sudden crises, or even the possibility of death in the family.
👉 Conclusion: The tradition of observing barley sprouts during Kalash Sthapana in Navratri is deeply symbolic. Green and white bring prosperity, while black, red, or barren sprouts warn of challenges. Whatever the outcome, faith and prayers to Goddess Durga are believed to help overcome difficulties and attract divine grace.
