Navaratri
Nine nights dedicated to worshipping the Divine Mother in her various forms.
Significance
Celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.
The Story Behind
Navaratri, meaning "nine nights," is one of the most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to worshipping the Divine Mother in her various forms. The festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. According to legend, Mahishasura had received a boon that no man or god could kill him, making him invincible. He terrorized the heavens and earth until the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva combined their powers to create Goddess Durga. Armed with weapons from all the gods and riding a lion, Durga fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights, finally slaying him on the tenth day, celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. During Navaratri, the nine forms of Durga (Navadurga) are worshipped, each representing different aspects of the Divine Feminine. The festival is celebrated differently across India - with Durga Puja in Bengal, Garba and Dandiya in Gujarat, and Bommai Kolu in South India.
Traditional Rituals & Observances
Nine Forms of Durga Worship
Each day of Navaratri is dedicated to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga: Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. Specific colors and offerings are associated with each day.
Fasting
Devotees observe fasts during the nine days, consuming only fruits, milk, and specific fasting foods. The fast is a form of purification and devotion, helping devotees focus on spiritual practices.
Garba and Dandiya
In Gujarat and other western states, devotees perform traditional Garba and Dandiya dances in circles around a lamp or idol of the Goddess, celebrating her divine energy with music, dance, and colorful attire.
Kanya Puja
On the eighth or ninth day, young girls (representing the nine forms of Durga) are worshipped, their feet are washed, and they are offered food and gifts. This ritual honors the divine feminine energy present in all women.
Spiritual Benefits
- Victory over inner demons and negativity
- Empowerment and strength
- Spiritual purification
- Blessings of the Divine Mother
- Removal of obstacles
- Prosperity and abundance
- Protection from evil forces
Puja Items Required
Sacred Mantras
Durga Mantra
ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः
I bow to Goddess Durga. This powerful beej mantra invokes the protective and empowering energy of the Divine Mother.
Durga Gayatri Mantra
ॐ कात्यायन्यै विद्महे कन्याकुमारी धीमहि तन्नो दुर्गिः प्रचोदयात्
We meditate on Goddess Katyayani, the maiden form of Durga. May the Goddess illuminate our intellect and grant us strength to overcome all obstacles.
Share with Family & Friends
Spread the word about this sacred festival
Book This Ritual
Experience authentic Navaratri puja performed by experienced priests with complete transparency.
Book Now