Spirituality when combined with celebration becomes the talk of the town. Navratri synonymous to zeal and enthusiasm, is one of the most celebrated festivals across the Indian sub-continent.
9 Reasons Why Navratri is Celebrated
Check out which of the tales or facts you know...
According to a legend, Navratri is a celebration of the Hindu Goddess Durga’s victory over the Buffalo-demon Mahishasura.
Navratri celebrates Shakti (the divine power) in a female form.
Lord Ram worshipped Goddess Durga for 9 days and was bestowed with the strength to defeat Ravana.
As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shivaallowed Parvati (a complete incarnation of Goddess Durga) to visit her maiden home for 9 days.
Navratri celebrates the welcoming of Spring and Autumn.
Golu - The doll festival of India, marks the beginning of a bride’s Golu collection and symbolizes prosperity.
Nine planets (Navgraha) are worshipped during Navratri to nullify the adversities faced by a person due to astrological imperfections.
The last day of Navratri calls for worship of the means of livelihood (instruments and tools of work).
Science behind the celebration of Navratri: The 9 days worship helps to suppress the negative energy of the body.
What to Do During the 9 Days of Navratri
Navratri starts with Ghat Sthapana (installation of a pot), along with the lighting of Akhand Jyoti (a flame that is continuously lit) throughout the festival.
Worshiping the 9 forms of Goddess Durga. It includes reciting prayers, chanting hymns, planting barley - marking the start of autumn.
During the 9 days of Navratri, people observe fast as a form of devotion to the Goddess and to cleanse the body and mind.
Foods to Eat
Sabudana kheer (Tapioca sago porridge)
Fruit and fruit juices
Curd
Foods Not to Eat
Garlic
Onion
Meditation: The Sun's position during Navratri symbolizes a balance between day and night, making it an ideal time for meditation.
The spirited festival is recognized for the group dance - Garba and Dandiya Raas.
Go shopping before Navratri! Wearing different colors during the festival is believed to bring luck and happiness, each representing an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
Colors for Navratri 2024
Day 1: Yellow Day 2: Green Day 3: Grey Day 4: Orange Day 5: White Day 6: Red Day 7: Royal Blue Day 8: Pink Day 9: Purple
Kanya Pujan (charity): A holy ritual which emphasizes that young girls are a form of Goddess Durga.
Sindoor Khela (vermillion game): Celebrated by married women, the game involves smearing vermillion on each other's faces, marking the farewell to the idol.
Concluding the 9 days, South Indians immerse the clay idol of the Goddess in water at night.