Navratri is one of India’s most popular and widely celebrated Hindu festivals. It’s a time for devotion, dance, music, and connecting with family and friends. Navratri in 2024 will be celebrated from October 3 to October 12.
Let’s dive into what makes Navratri so special, why we celebrate it, and how people observe these nine nights.
What is Navratri?
The word Navratri is derived from Sanskrit, meaning “nine nights.” This festival spans nine nights and ten days and is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga and her various forms. During these days, Hindus honor the divine feminine energy, symbolized by Durga, who is seen as the protector of the universe, a destroyer of evil, and a nurturer of good.
Why is Navratri Celebrated?
Navratri has deep roots in Hindu mythology. There are different stories and beliefs around the festival, but the most common one is the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasur. This triumph represents the power of good defeating evil. Each day of the festival celebrates a different form of Durga, symbolizing her various virtues like power, peace, and knowledge.
Another story behind Navratri relates to the epic of Ramayana, where Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Durga to seek her blessings before his battle with Ravana. This is why, in some regions, Dussehra, the day following Navratri, celebrates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.
How is Navratri Celebrated?
Navratri is celebrated in different ways across India. Every region has its own special customs and traditions:
– In Northern India, people observe fasts, offer prayers, and take part in nightly Garba and Dandiya dances. These energetic dances are a big part of the celebration, with colorful outfits, lively music, and lots of community participation.
– In Gujarat, the entire state lights up with celebrations, especially Garba nights. People of all ages gather in large groups, dancing in circles to the beats of traditional music. The vibrant atmosphere reflects the joyous spirit of Navratri.
– In West Bengal, Navratri culminates in Durga Puja, a grand festival where beautifully crafted idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped. The last day, called Vijayadashami, marks the immersion of the idols in water, symbolizing the return of Durga to her heavenly abode.
– In South India, Navratri is celebrated by displaying dolls and figurines on steps, a tradition known as Bommai Golu. Homes are decorated, and women invite each other for special prayers and offerings.
– In Maharashtra, Navratri is a time for fasting, feasting, and worship. Many people begin new ventures or buy new things during this time, believing it’s an auspicious period for fresh starts.
The Nine Days of Navratri
Each day of Navratri is associated with a different color and form of Goddess Durga. Here’s a quick look at the significance of each day:
1. Day 1 (Pratipada) – Dedicated to Shailputri, the daughter of the mountains. The color for this day is yellow, symbolizing happiness and brightness.
2. Day 2 (Dwitiya) – Worship of Brahmacharini, the goddess of penance and austerity. The color for this day is green, representing growth and harmony.
3. Day 3 (Tritiya) – The day of Chandraghanta, the goddess of peace and serenity. Gray is the color, symbolizing balance.
4. Day 4 (Chaturthi) – Dedicated to Kushmanda, the creator of the universe. Orange is the color of the day, representing warmth and joy.
5. Day 5 (Panchami) – Worship of Skandamata, the mother of Kartikeya (Skanda). White is the color, symbolizing purity.
6. Day 6 (Shashti) – Devoted to Katyayani, the warrior goddess. The color is red, symbolizing strength and courage.
7. Day 7 (Saptami) – Worship of Kalaratri, the destroyer of evil. The color for this day is blue, symbolizing divine energy.
8. Day 8 (Ashtami) – Dedicated to Mahagauri, the goddess of purity and calmness. Pink is the color, representing hope and compassion.
9. Day 9 (Navami) – The final day, honoring Siddhidatri, the goddess of supernatural powers. The color is purple, symbolizing ambition and power.
Navratri Fasting and Feasting
Many devotees observe fasts during Navratri, eating only certain foods like fruits, nuts, and specific grains like buckwheat and amaranth. Fasting is considered a way to cleanse both the mind and body. However, Navratri is also known for its delicious feasts, especially after the fasts end each day. Popular dishes include sabudana khichdi, kuttu puri, and fruit chaats.
Dussehra – The Tenth Day
The festival concludes with Dussehra or Vijayadashami, which falls on the tenth day, marking the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm, with processions, effigies of Ravana being burned, and cultural performances.
Happy Navratri!
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