Out of all Hindu festivals, the Navratri stands out as a nine- night long vibrant celebration of Shakti or the Goddess of Power. She, who goes by many names, is considered the ultimate divine power in Hindu mythology, and her veneration brings auspiciousness, purity, prosperity and success into the lives of all who participate.
When is Navratri Celebrated?
Theoretically, four Navratris take place around the year. However, the most celebrated is the Sharada Navratri, occurring post-monsoon, in the Roman calendar month of October.
Essence of the Nine Nights
While the festival has much significance, it is popularly believed that the nine nights signify the balance of the three primeval gunas of femininity- Tamas, Rajas, Sattva. While Tamas signifies emotional instability, Rajas stands for anxiety. The last three nights of Sattva bring about clarity and focus. The victory of this guna is then celebrated as Vijaydashami on the night that follows the final Navratri.
The essence of victory over evil, whether it refers to emotions or actions, Vijaydashami or Dussehra emphasizes making conscious choices to welcome true prosperity. The three Devis– Saraswati, Durga and Lakshmi teach us the lesson of knowledge, goodness and prosperity winning over ignorance, evil and hardships, if we go through the practices of Navratri wholeheartedly.
Customs
Amongst the customs, eating a pure vegetarian diet, abstaining from alcohol and certain spices, maintaining a clean and healthy environment, and a general humanistic respect towards others are followed by the believers.
As young girls are considered to be sent by the Goddesses themselves, a practice known as Kanjaka or Kanya Pujan is held on the eighth and ninth day of Navratri. Young girls of the household are dressed up as Goddesses and worshiped by washing their feet and gaining their blessings. It is a veneration not only to the innocence and purity of the feminine gender but also to the divine power that resides in each woman. The woman, who is the creator, the nurturer, the power, and the strength of humanity in every way needs to be respected, and the Hindu culture stands firm in this belief.
These nine nights are more than just a religious celebration. They are also a healthy breakaway from our lifestyles and a way to connect to our core values. Core values of respect, cleanliness, meditation, purity and kindness towards others are taught and retaught to humanity through these nights.
One Festival, Many Flavors
The state of Gujarat leads this celebration with fervor unmatched. Melas, or fairs consisting of rides and sweet stalls are set up in every nook and corner. As every foot stomps, the click of sticks in Ras Garba and Dandiya bring out a spirit of enthusiasm among the participants from each community. People all over, come together to see this festival as more than just a religious occasion. In fact, it is celebrated as an integrated part of Indian culture.
The Durga Pooja is a sight to behold in the eastern states of Assam and West Bengal. Women dress up in red and white sarees and take to the roads to worship huge idols of the Goddess Durga. Special images of Durga, depicting her victory over Mahishasura are worshiped with great devotion.
In the modern era of the 21st century, these nights witness a variety of celebrations. Recitals of religious songs, plays from Hindu mythology and even concerts by famous artists are held to bring the public together in jubilation.
The True Meaning
These nine nights and ten days say more than words about how our culture not only demands respect for women, but also how it is the feminine wheel of nature that drives us forward. By aligning ourselves with the Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati present in our inner beings, these nine nights renew in us the strength to stand tall in any situation.
These nights are a testament to how nature always balances good over evil and if we aspire to remain on the victor’s side, it is time to weave back these teachings into our lifestyle.
Writer : Kriti Gupta
Grade : 12 (Year 2024)
Place : Ambala, India
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