Navratri, where ‘Nava’ means nine and ‘Ratri’ means night is a festival that is celebrated for 9 days in the summer and winter seasons respectively. The Goddess Durga is worshipped during this festival. This festival is celebrated to denote the departure of every sorrow and misery of life. A celebration of ‘Shakti’ or strength, Navaratri is one of the most auspicious festivals in the country.
With the help of Navratri mantras, it is clearly understood that the strength that God possesses is immeasurable and with that divine strength, He protects us all. Also, Maa Durga is considered to be the Goddess of strength and power and the fighter against every evil. This festival highlights the brilliant deeds of Maa Durga and their outcomes.
The Different States on Navratri
Navratri is celebrated all over India, just with different names. Some states put more emphasis on Navratri than others. The states that celebrate full-scale Navratri are –
Gujarat – Gujarat celebrates Navratri with full zest and vigour. Dandiya and Garba, the two famous dances of Gujarat are also performed during this season. Some people keep 9 days fast and wear traditional clothes throughout.
West Bengal – West Bengal celebrates Durga Puja, which is a 5 days festival with lights and brightness all around. Maa Durga is believed to visit her father’s place on Earth with her children after defeating the evil ‘Mahishaasur’.
Punjab – Punjab mostly focuses on the Kanya Puja that is performed on the 8th day of Navratri.
Maharashtra – In Maharashtra, the people celebrate Navratri for the betterment of their businesses. The people of Maharashtra believe that the 10th day of Navratri is very auspicious for a new business venture or the existing old one.
South India – In South India, ‘Golu’ is celebrated which is the arrangement of lights and different Gods and Goddesses are placed on pedestals.
Karnataka – Chamundi is worshipped. Also, professions are taken out in abundance.
Kerala – In Kerala, the last three days are really special. Books are worshipped instead of idols which are a really good approach.
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The Different Forms of Goddess Durga
Durga is not only celebrated in her main form but also in different forms. Goddess Durga’s forms that are worshipped on Navratri are –
- Durga
- Bhadrakali
- Sarvamangala
- Bhairavi
- Chandika
- Amba or Jagadamba
- Annapoorna
- Lalita
- Bhavani
- Mookambika
Garba Dance
Garba and Dandiya are traditional dances of Gujarat of which, Garba requires more vigour and strength. The dance is mainly performed using circular patterns and leg movements. The dancers revolve around the ‘Garba Deep’ while dancing.
The Nine Days
Navratri mantras are performed during the nine days of Durga worshipping. These mantras are mostly said to Goddess Durga. During the first 3 days, the Goddess is worshipped as a warrior, sitting on the back of a lion, dressed in red. During days 4th, 5th, and 6th, Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity is worshipped. She is all clad in golden colours. During the final three days, the Goddess of knowledge Saraswati is worshipped. Maa Saraswati is always dressed in spotless white.
Navratri Delicacies
During the Navratri, some people prefer eating vegetarian dishes, while some like eating nom-vegetarian dishes. However, sweets are common for both. These sweets are gifted to the well-wishers as well in order to increases the bonds of friendship and love. Some of the delicacies include –
- Sabudana Puris
- Sabudana Kheer
- Vadas cooked with tapioca
- Aval Kesari
- Singhare Ka Halwa
- ‘Vrat ke Chawal’
These amazingly well-made dishes are eaten by every person who celebrates Navratri
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Navratri Mantras
The Navratri mantras depict welfare, attraction, wealth, trouble power and also the onset of health and fortune. Having said this, the mantras are very powerful and if chanted properly, provide us with peace and prosperity.
Navratri is one of the most celebrated festivals all over India. The Navratri festival is bright and jovial with rich and brilliant colours all over. That is why people love celebrating Navratri.
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