Through the whole of Navaratri
India is a land rich in traditions and festivals, and the spirit of celebration never seems to wane. Throughout the year, Indians joyfully observe various festivals with unflagging enthusiasm. Whether it’s Makar Sankranti or Christmas, or the special festival of Navratri that falls in the month of October, the fervor and devotion remain consistent.
Navratri, a term derived from the Sanskrit words ‘nava’ meaning nine and ‘ratri’ meaning night, is predominantly celebrated in the all parts of India, in various forms. In several parts of the country including Gujarat and West Bengal, it is known as Durga Puja. Nevertheless, one can witness Navratri celebrations in every nook and corner of the country.
Navratri starts with the symbolic placement of the ‘Kalash,’ signifying the festival’s essence of light, music, dance, and unwavering devotion. This festival is dedicated to the divine manifestations of Goddess Durga, and each of its nine days is associated with a specific color representing the goddess’s various strengths and attributes.
On the ninth day of Durga Puja, a special ritual known as ‘Kanya Pooja’ takes place. Kanya Pooja is performed to honor and seek the blessings of the divine feminine energy, which is represented by the young girls. It is believed that these girls are the living manifestations or embodiments of Goddess Durga, and by honoring them, devotees express their respect for the power and purity associated with the goddess. In this ceremony, nine young girls are dressed and seated, symbolizing the goddesses themselves. The girls’ feet are washed as a sign of respect.
Durga Puja, prominently celebrated with grand idols of Goddess Durga triumphing over the buffalo-headed demon Mahishasura, features lively festivities in Gujarat, where people partake in Dandiya and Garba Nights, dancing and celebrating throughout the night. In central and south India, Ram Leela performances are enacted, depicting the triumph of good over evil. On the tenth day, effigies of the demon king Ravana are set ablaze in the grand celebration of Dussehra.
Throughout the nine days of Navratri, India is enveloped in an atmosphere of pure joy and festivity, as people come together to celebrate the divine and the victory of good over evil.
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्तिरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः |
इन्द्रियाणामधिष्ठात्री भूतानां चाखिलेषु या।
भूतेषु सततं तस्यै व्याप्तिदेव्यै नमो नम:॥
चितिरूपेण या कृत्स्नमेतद्व्याप्य स्थिता जगत्।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नम:॥
Yogesh M. Mundle, EC23I2016: I feel proud to be born in India, a land that gave birth to the slogan वसुधैव कुटुंबकम, a country full of diversity but strongly upholds its unity and the tradition it has maintained unhindered. I love to know more about amazing temples that were made with perfection in ancient era. I am trained in Kalaripayattu too. Whenever I see or hear music, dances, ragas and teachings, I feel them to be from my own heart.
