Navratri

Navratri is an important festival in Hinduism , in which nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. " Navaratri " literally means "nine nights" (nava = nine, ratri = night). The festival occurs twice a year: one in the month of Chaitra (March–April) called Chaitra Navratri , and the other in the month of Ashwin (September–October) called Sharadiya Navratri .

During this festival, nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped, which are called Navdurga . This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil , and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence throughout India.

Significance of Navratri :

The main purpose of Navratri is to worship the power (shakti) of Goddess Durga . This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. During this time people do self-purification , meditation , sadhana and fasting. Navratri is considered especially important for women , as it is considered a celebration of feminine power.

Significance of the nine days of Navratri :

Each day a particular form of Goddess Durga is worshipped:

1. First day - Shailaputri :

o This is the first form of Durga Mata , who is the daughter of Parvataraja Himalaya. Worshiping her gives stability in life to a human being.

2. Second day - Brahmacharini :

o It is a symbol of austerity and restraint. Worshipping it gives the power of devotion , restraint and penance.

3. Third day - Chandraghanta :

o This is the form of the mother who is full of bravery and courage. There is a half-moon on her forehead , which looks like a moon-shaped bell. Worshipping her gives courage and strength.

4. Fourth day - Kushmanda :

o This goddess is considered the goddess of creation. She is the originator of the universe. Worshiping her brings health and prosperity.

5. Fifth day - Skandamata :

o This goddess is the mother of Lord Kartikeya. By worshipping her, devotees attain knowledge and salvation.

6. Sixth day – Katyayani :

o This goddess is considered to be the goddess of war , who killed Mahishasura. Worshiping her brings victory and valour.

7. Seventh day - Kalaratri :

o This goddess is also considered to be the destroyer of time. Worshiping her brings freedom from enemies and obstacles.

8. Eighth day - Mahagauri :

o This goddess is considered a symbol of peace and purity. Worshiping her brings happiness and prosperity to the devotees.

9. Ninth day - Siddhidatri :

o This goddess is the giver of all siddhis. By worshipping her, one attains all kinds of siddhis and powers.

Method of worship of Navratri :

1. Kalash Sthapana : Navratri begins with Kalash Sthapana , which is called Ghatasthapana . The Kalash is filled with water and placed on top of it using coconut and leaves.

2. Worship of the Mother Goddess : Every day one form of Goddess Durga is worshipped. In this, a lamp is lit in front of the idol or picture of the Goddess and flowers, rice , vermilion and sweets are offered.

3. Fasting : Devotees observe fast during Navratri . During the fast, fruits , milk and special satvik food are consumed. Grains , salt and chillies are not used during the fast.

4. Aarti and Mantra Chanting : Every day in the morning and evening, the Aarti of the Goddess is performed and her mantras are chanted. The main mantra is "Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundaye Vicche."

5. Kanya Pujan : On the day of Ashtami or Navami, Kanya Pujan has special importance. On this day, small girls are worshipped as goddesses and are given food and gifts.

Major festivals held during Navratri :

Garba and Dandiya : Garba and Dandiya Raas are the main attractions of Navratri , especially in Gujarat and Western India . In this, people wear colorful costumes and dance Dandiya in groups at night.

· Ramlila and Dussehra : In North India, Ramlila is organized during Navratri , in which the Leela of Lord Rama is enacted. On the tenth day , i.e. Dussehra , the victory of good over evil is celebrated by burning Ravana.

Spiritual significance of Navratri :

Navratri is not just a time to worship or celebrate the Goddess , but it is also a time for self-purification and inner growth. Fasting , sadhana and meditation purify the mind and lead to spiritual growth. This festival inspires people to awaken their inner power and bring prosperity and positivity in their lives.