All About The Amazing Navaratri Festival And How It Is Celebrated In India

Navaratri, a Sanskrit word meaning 'nine nights', is one of the most vibrant and significant festivals celebrated in India.

It reveres the goddess Durga in her various forms and is observed with great enthusiasm and devotion across the country. Let's take a look at the essence, rituals, and traditions of this grand festival.

Historical and Mythological Significance

Navaratri is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed to symbolize the victory of good over evil. According to legends, the demon king Mahishasura was granted a boon that he could only be defeated by a woman. Using his powers, he wreaked havoc in the three worlds. To save the universe, the trinity of gods – Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva – created Goddess Durga, who fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights and finally vanquished him on the tenth day. This victory of Durga over Mahishasura is celebrated as Navaratri.

The Nine Nights and Their Significance

Each of the nine nights of Navaratri is dedicated to a different form of Durga. These are:

Shailaputri (Daughter of the Mountains): The embodiment of the power of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Brahmacharini: Represents penance and austerity.

Chandraghanta: Symbolizes serenity and bravery.

Kushmanda: The creator of the universe.

Skandamata: The mother of Kartikeya, commander of the gods.

Katyayani: Born to the sage Katyayan and epitomizes courage.

Kaalratri: Represents the fierce form of Durga.

Mahagauri: Symbolizes intelligence and peace.

Siddhidatri: Grants enlightenment and knowledge.

Celebrations Across India

Navaratri is celebrated differently in various parts of India, each with its unique traditions and customs.

West (Gujarat): Here, Navaratri is synonymous with the dance form 'Garba'. People dress up in colourful traditional outfits and dance around a clay lantern with a light inside, called a Garbi. Another dance form, Dandiya Raas, which involves two dance sticks, is also popular.

North (Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh): In these regions, Ram Lila plays depicting the life of Lord Rama are organized. On the tenth day, known as Dussehra, effigies of Ravana are burnt to symbolize the victory of good over evil.

East (West Bengal, Assam, Bihar): Here, the last four days of Navaratri, called Durga Puja, are celebrated with grandeur. Huge artistic tents, known as pandals, are set up displaying idols of Goddess Durga. On the tenth day, these idols are immersed in water, symbolizing her return to her celestial abode.

South (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh): In the southern states, the festival is called Golu. People display dolls on stepped platforms. The dolls are symbolic of the assembly of gods and goddesses.

Fasting and Feasting

Fasting during Navaratri is a common practice. Many devotees observe a fast on all nine days, consuming only fruits, nuts, and specific fasting foods. The idea is to cleanse the body and soul. After nine days of fasting, the tenth day, called Vijayadashami or Dussehra, is celebrated with a grand feast.

Fashion and Navaratri

Navaratri also brings with it a riot of colours. Each of the nine days is associated with a specific color, and devotees often wear clothes of that colour on a respective day. From vibrant chaniya cholis to elegant sarees, the festival is a showcase of India's rich textile heritage.

Environmental Consciousness

In recent years, there's been a growing emphasis on celebrating an eco-friendly Navaratri. Biodegradable materials are being used for idols, and there's a push towards reducing noise and air pollution.

Navaratri is not just a festival; it's an emotion that binds millions of Indians together. It's a time of devotion, dance, music, and unity. Whether it's the rhythmic beats of the dandiya or the serene aarti of the goddess, Navaratri truly epitomizes the diverse and rich cultural tapestry of India.