Navratri, also known as Durga Puja, is a Hindu festival that is celebrated over nine days in honor of the goddess Durga. The word “Navratri” is derived from the Sanskrit words “nava”, which means nine, and “ratri”, which means night. The festival typically falls in the months of September or October and is celebrated with great fervor and excitement by Hindus all over the world.
History of Navratri
The origins of Navratri can be traced back to ancient times, with references to the festival found in Hindu scriptures such as the Markandeya Purana and the Devi Mahatmya. The festival is said to commemorate the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
According to legend, Mahishasura was a powerful demon who had defeated the gods and taken over the heavens. In desperation, the gods created Durga, a warrior goddess who was endowed with the powers of all the gods. Durga fought a fierce battle with Mahishasura for nine days and nights, ultimately defeating him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra.
Navratri is also associated with the legend of Lord Rama, who is said to have worshipped Durga for nine days before embarking on his battle against the demon king Ravana. Rama’s victory over Ravana on the tenth day is celebrated as Dussehra, marking the triumph of good over evil.
Customs and Traditions of Navratri
Navratri is celebrated in different ways across India, with each region having its own unique customs and traditions. In North India, the festival is marked by fasting, prayer, and the recitation of religious hymns. People dress up in traditional attire and visit temples to offer prayers to the goddess Durga.
In Gujarat, Navratri is celebrated with the famous Garba and Dandiya Raas dances, where men and women dance in circles to the beat of traditional folk music. The dance is performed with great enthusiasm and energy, with people of all ages joining in the festivities.
In West Bengal, Navratri is celebrated as Durga Puja, with elaborate pandals (temporary structures) set up to house idols of the goddess Durga. The pandals are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and other decorations, and people throng to the pandals to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the goddess.
In South India, Navratri is celebrated as Golu, where dolls and figurines are arranged in elaborate displays in homes and temples. The dolls represent various gods, goddesses, and mythological characters, and people visit each other’s homes to view the displays and exchange gifts.
FAQs about Navratri
Q: When is Navratri celebrated?
A: Navratri is celebrated over nine days in the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, which typically falls in September or October.
Q: What is the significance of Navratri?
A: Navratri is a celebration of the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the triumph of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.
Q: How is Navratri celebrated?
A: Navratri is celebrated with fasting, prayer, and the recitation of religious hymns. In some regions, people also participate in dances such as Garba and Dandiya Raas.
Q: What are the different names of Navratri in different regions?
A: Navratri is known by different names in different regions, such as Durga Puja in West Bengal, Golu in South India, and Garba in Gujarat.
Q: What are some traditional foods eaten during Navratri?
A: During Navratri, people typically eat foods that are prepared without onions and garlic, such as sabudana khichdi, kuttu ki puri, and samvat rice.
In conclusion, Navratri is a festival that holds great significance for Hindus, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the power of the goddess Durga. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, with people coming together to pray, dance, and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Whether it is through fasting, prayer, dance, or elaborate rituals, Navratri is a time for people to come together and seek the blessings of the goddess Durga.
