As the auspicious festival of Navratri begins, Hindus across India and the world are preparing for nine days of fasting, worship, music, and dance dedicated to the goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. The word Navratri literally translates to “nine nights,” marking a sacred period that honors the eternal battle between good and evil, where righteousness ultimately prevails.
What Navratri Celebrates
At its heart, Navratri is the celebration of Shakti—the feminine energy of the universe. According to Hindu tradition, it commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura, who represented arrogance, injustice, and adharma (unrighteousness). The goddess fought him for nine days and nights, finally slaying him on the tenth day, celebrated as Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra.
The festival thus embodies two timeless themes: the power of the feminine divine and the eternal triumph of good over evil.
How Long and How It Is Observed
Navratri lasts nine nights and ten days. Each day is dedicated to one of the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, known as Navadurga:
1. Shailaputri – Daughter of the mountains, symbol of strength
2. Brahmacharini – Goddess of penance and devotion
3. Chandraghanta – Warrior goddess, symbol of bravery
4. Kushmanda – Creator of the cosmic universe
5. Skandamata – Nurturer and motherly form
6. Katyayani – Fierce protector, slayer of evil
7. Kaalratri – Dark, fearsome form who destroys negativity
8. Mahagauri – Goddess of purity and serenity
9. Siddhidatri – Giver of wisdom, knowledge, and blessings
The tenth day, Dussehra, celebrates Durga’s victory and also, in many regions, marks Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana, connecting the festival with the Ramayana.
Regional Celebrations
• In Gujarat, Navratri is marked with grand Garba and Dandiya Raas dances.
• In West Bengal, it transforms into the majestic Durga Puja, with elaborately crafted idols, pandals, and cultural festivities.
• In North India, Ram Leela performances are staged, culminating with the burning of Ravana’s effigy on Dussehra.
• In South India, families display Bommai Golu (doll arrangements), and temples host special recitals and prayers.
Beyond rituals, Navratri is seen as a time for spiritual cleansing and discipline, with devotees observing fasts, practicing meditation, and performing charity. Socially, it brings communities together in joyous celebration, whether through dance, feasts, or worship gatherings.
As lamps are lit and drums resound in temples and homes, Navratri continues to unite millions in devotion, celebration, and the reaffirmation of a timeless truth—that light and righteousness always prevail over darkness and evil.
