Navaratri start date 15-10-2023
Navaratri end date 24-10-2023
Navaratri is one of the important festivals in India that is celebrated for 9 days to seek the blessings of the female goddesses. The trinity of feminine powers - Shakthi, Lakshmi and Saraswathi are worshipped to receive their powers. This festival is mainly celebrated by the women and young girls who engage themselves in various devotional rituals and celebrations during this auspicious period. holds immense significance for both young and married women, who engage in elaborate rituals and celebrations during this auspicious period. Let's delve into the essence of Navaratri by exploring the deities worshipped and the methods of worship on each day.
The Navaratri is celebrated for nine days. On each day different forms of goddesses are worshipped:
Navaratri Day 1:Goddess Shailaputri
Shailaputri is the first form of Goddess Durga. Young women are involved in Ghatasthapana, in which a pot symbolizing the Goddess is filled with holy water. Now barley seeds are sown which represents the beginning of a new life. The healthy germination is considered very auspicious for one's life.
Navaratri Day 2: Goddess Brahmacharini
On the second day, the Goddess Brahmacharini is invoked and worshipped. Women fast and worship her, seeking blessings for marital bliss and spiritual growth. The offering of sugar cane signifies the sweet journey of marriage in the lives of women.
Navaratri DayDay 3: Goddess Chandraghanta
Goddess Chandraghanta, the goddess of bravery and grace, is honoured on the third day. Married women adorn themselves with red costumes and offer milk and sweets to seek protection for their families.
Navaratri Day 4: Goddess Kushmanda
The fourth day is dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda, the creator of the universe. Devotees perform the ritual of lighting lamps, signifying the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.
Navaratri Day 5: Goddess Skandamata
Goddess Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya, is worshipped on the fifth day. Mothers pray for the well-being and success of their children. Young women create beautiful rangoli designs to honour her.
Navaratri Day 6: Goddess Katyayani
On the sixth day, the fierce form of Goddess Durga, Katyayani, is invoked. Married women fast and perform 'Santana Gopala' puja, seeking blessings for the health and prosperity of their children.
Navaratri Day 7: Goddess Kalaratri
Goddess Kalaratri, the destroyer of darkness, is venerated on the seventh day. Married women break their fast by offering prayers for the long life and well-being of their husbands.
Navaratri Day 8: Goddess Mahagauri
The eighth day is dedicated to the radiant Goddess Mahagauri, symbolizing purity and serenity. Young girls are invited into homes, honoured, and given offerings as a representation of the Goddess.
Navaratri Day 9: Goddess Siddhidhatri
Navaratri concludes with the worship of Goddess Siddhidhatri, the granter of wishes and spiritual enlightenment. Married women offer their prayers for the welfare of their families and loved ones.
Significance of Navaratri Worship
Navaratri is a time of spiritual rejuvenation, devotion, and cultural celebration. Young women and married women play integral roles in the festivities. For young women, it's a time to seek blessings for a suitable life partner and marital bliss. For married women, it's an opportunity to pray for the well-being of their spouses and children.