The Divine Nine Nights: Navratri
Every year the bright fortnight of the Ashwin Month( Sep-Oct), also known as the Shukla paksh of Ashwin Maas marks the start of the colourful, joyful and divine nights of Navratri. Navratri besides denoting the nine nights also denotes the nine forms of the supreme feminine energy-Goddess Durga.
The Sacred Rituals
The rituals involve placing a water filled pot or kalash on a bed of soil in which barley has been placed. This barley will grow over the nine days symbolising the wish for a bountiful harvest. The Kalash is believed to be the seat of the deity herself-honouring the power of creation.
But Navratri is not just limited to worshipping and performing rituals at home. Its spirit flows far beyond the four walls- from temples to garba nights to grand durga puja pandals. People come together to celebrate the Goddess’s homecoming, as is believed.
The Spirit of Celebration
States do differ in their way of celebrating this festival but all are bound by their devotion to the Devi. Gujarat celebrates it by hosting garba nights. The nights come alive with beats of dhol, swirling skirts and dance.
It brings together people from all walks of life which fosters community bonding. Traditional attires are a must, with women in chaniya cholis and men in kediyu dhotis. The costumes are a mix of vibrant colors with intricate mirror embroideries.
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Massive Durga Puja pandals with unique themes is West Bengal’s way of drowning in the festive spirit. Here “Pujo” as it is called in Bengali begins from the sixth day of the Navratri or the Shashthi.
Grand idols of Goddess Durga with Lord Ganesh and Goddess Laxmi on one side and Lord Karthikey and Goddess Saraswati on other are worshipped with elaborate rituals, starting early morning. The energetic beats of Dhak invites even those who have never danced before to be a part of the rhythm.
There are people who fast, observing strict practices for nine consecutive days, surviving on fruits and water but not grains. Then there are a lot who love to indulge in a variety of foods. Nobody is bound by any ritual and that's the beauty of this festival, allowing everyone to enjoy it their own way.
The Message: To Honour Every Women.
Navami or the ninth day is also very special. On this day little girl children are worshipped as forms of the Goddess herself. Their feets are washed, served puri, chana and halwa and given gifts. Its not only a mere ritual to be performed but a way of reminding us that Shakti resides in every woman.
Nine days of relentless celebration comes to an end on the tenth day or Vijaydashami. According to legends this was the day of Goddess Durga killing Mahisasura and Lord Ram killing Ravan.
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The triumph of good over evil is celebrated with the burning of effigy of Ravan along with Meghnath and Kumbhkaran. People bid an emotional adieu to Goddess Durga by immersing the idols in the rivers, promising to celebrate again next year.
Navratri tells us that in life also efforts leads to victory. The right actions done with the right and purest intentions can transform our lives and show us the path towards light. It also reminds to honour all women around us as they have the power to create and nurture life. This is considered true devotion towards Maa Durga.