Navratri, also spelled as Navaratri, is a Hindu festival celebrated over nine nights and ten days. The word ‘Navratri’ is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘nava’, which means nine, and ‘ratri’, which means night. Navratri is one of the most significant festivals in Hindu culture, dedicated to the worship of the Goddess Durga, also known as Shakti or Devi. This festival is celebrated in various parts of India and by Hindus all over the world with great fervor and enthusiasm. Navratri is a time for prayer, fasting, and devotion, as well as for dance and music performances.
History of Navratri:
The origins of Navratri can be traced back to ancient times, with references to the festival found in Hindu scriptures and texts. The festival is believed to have originated as a harvest festival, celebrating the bounty of the earth and the blessings of the Goddess Durga, who is considered the divine mother and protector of the universe. Navratri is also associated with the victory of good over evil, as it is believed that the Goddess Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura after a fierce battle that lasted for nine days and nights.
Mythology of Navratri:
There are several myths and legends associated with Navratri, each highlighting the significance of the festival and the worship of the Goddess Durga. One of the most popular myths is the story of the battle between the Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. According to legend, Mahishasura, who was granted a boon of invincibility by Lord Brahma, wreaked havoc on earth, terrorizing humans and gods alike. Unable to defeat him, the gods turned to the Goddess Durga for help, who fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights before finally slaying him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra.
Another myth associated with Navratri is the story of Lord Rama, who worshipped the Goddess Durga before embarking on his battle against the demon king Ravana. It is believed that Lord Rama prayed to the Goddess for nine days and nights, seeking her blessings and protection, before defeating Ravana and rescuing his wife Sita.
Symbolism of Navratri:
Navratri is a festival that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. The nine nights of Navratri are divided into three sets of three days, each dedicated to the worship of a different aspect of the Goddess Durga. The first three days are dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her form as Kali, the fierce and powerful destroyer of evil. The next three days are dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The final three days are dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
During Navratri, devotees observe fasting and perform various rituals and ceremonies to appease the Goddess Durga and seek her blessings. Many people also participate in Garba and Dandiya Raas, traditional dance forms that are performed during Navratri to celebrate the victory of good over evil and to honor the divine mother.
FAQs about Navratri:
Q: When is Navratri celebrated?
A: Navratri is celebrated twice a year, once in the spring (Chaitra Navratri) and once in the fall (Sharad Navratri). The most popular and widely celebrated Navratri is Sharad Navratri, which usually falls in the month of September or October.
Q: How is Navratri celebrated?
A: Navratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by Hindus all over the world. People observe fasts, perform puja (worship), and participate in various cultural activities such as Garba and Dandiya Raas. Temples are decorated with flowers and lights, and special prayers are offered to the Goddess Durga.
Q: What is the significance of Garba and Dandiya Raas?
A: Garba and Dandiya Raas are traditional dance forms that are performed during Navratri to celebrate the victory of good over evil and to honor the Goddess Durga. These dances involve intricate footwork, colorful costumes, and lively music, and are a fun and festive way to celebrate the spirit of Navratri.
Q: What are some traditional foods eaten during Navratri?
A: During Navratri, people often observe fasts and abstain from eating grains and non-vegetarian foods. Instead, they eat foods made from ingredients such as buckwheat flour, water chestnut flour, and fruits. Some popular dishes eaten during Navratri include sabudana khichdi, kuttu ki puri, and fruit chaat.
In conclusion, Navratri is a festival that holds great significance in Hindu culture, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the worship of the divine mother. It is a time for prayer, fasting, devotion, and celebration, as well as for coming together as a community to honor the Goddess Durga. Navratri is a festival that is deeply rooted in tradition and mythology, and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm by Hindus all over the world.
