Navratri is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. These 9 days have great significance in the Hindu calendar. According to mythology, Goddess Durga defeated the demon king Mahishasura in a battle in the span of these 9-10 days. In these nine days, we worship various avatars of Goddess Durga. The nine incarnations of Goddess Durga are Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta. Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. So here is everything we need to know about these 9 days.
We worship Goddess Shailputri on the first day of Navratri. She is the daughter of the mountain. Pratiada is the first day of Navratri. We worship Goddess Brahmacharini on the second day of Navratri. It’s the Dwitiya of Navratri. She is an unmarried avatar of Parvati. We worship Goddess Chandraghanta on the third day. We also worship Goddess Kushmanda on Day 4. Legend says that she is credited with creating the world with her divine smile. On Day 5, Goddess Skandamata is worshiped, she is the mother of Skanda who is also called Kartikeya. The sixth day is devoted to Goddess Katyayani.
Meanwhile, on this day we worship the warrior Goddess and the daughter of sage Katyayana. People worship Goddess Kaalratri on the seventh day and this avatar is one of the most ferocious ones. Meanwhile, On Ashtami, we worship Goddess Mahagauri who is a symbol of peace and intelligence. Also, on the ninth day, we worship Goddess Siddhidatri who is the form of Lord Shakti, and Shiva, who is Ardhanarishvara.
Dussera and Link with Ramayana
Dussera is a day when Good trumps over evil. It’s a day when Goddess Durga finally kills the demon king after fighting for almost 9 days. Also, this is the same day when Rama defeats the Demon King, Ravana. In many places all over people burn the statue of Ravana to remind themselves of the victory. This represents the conquering of good over evil. Also, Dussehra is the day when most of us start the preparation for Diwali. These two festivals are usually less than a month apart. The 10th day is Vijaya Dashami. This makes the 10th day even more special.
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Festivals Bring Us Closer
Festivals bring joy and color to our lives. Navratri season comes along with Dandiya and delicious food. Also, people fast on these days. Dancing to beats and being part of Durga Pooja has its positive vibes. These are the days when we get to meet our extended family and spend quality time with everyone. The traditional dance form of Garba is performed in circles during this time of the year. It is a folk dance of Gujarat and a beautiful sight to see.
Many times there are events like Dandia nights that take place throughout the nine days. Its a mordern touch to tradtional pratice. Ramleela is also performed in many parts of India. A group of people practice and later perform the skit as entertainment for an audience. In some places, people opt for a particular color of clothing for all nine days as part of this festival. Parents need to teach their children about these festivals as these stories always teach something about our lives. India is a land of festivals. We need to uphold our traditions and always stay strong to our roots.
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