What Is Navratri? - Story, History, Importance, and Significance

Navratri, a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated with great fervor in India, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. The word "Navratri" is a Sanskrit word that means "nine nights." This festival spans nine days and nights, and it is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga and her various forms. In this blog, we will explore the rich history, importance, and significance of Navratri.

The Story Behind Navratri

Navratri's origin can be traced back to ancient Hindu mythology. According to popular belief, Navratri commemorates the victory of the goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. This victory symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The festival also marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his victory over the demon king Ravana.

The Legend of Mahishasura

The story of Navratri begins with the powerful demon Mahishasura, who received a boon from Lord Brahma, granting him near immortality. Mahishasura wreaked havoc on Earth and Heaven, threatening the gods. Unable to bear his tyranny, the gods invoked the divine feminine energy, which merged into a single, radiant form—Durga. She was armed with weapons from various gods and waged a fierce battle against Mahishasura, ultimately slaying him on the ninth day of Navratri.

The Return of Lord Rama

Navratri is also celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, the ten-headed demon king. His return was a moment of great joy, and people illuminated their homes with lamps and rejoiced in his homecoming. This tradition has continued through the ages and evolved into the festival of Diwali, which comes twenty days after Navratri.

The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga

Each day of Navratri is dedicated to the worship of a different form of Goddess Durga. These nine forms represent the various aspects of the divine feminine energy. Here's a brief overview of each form:

• Shailaputri: The first day is dedicated to Shailaputri, the daughter of the Himalayas. She is also known as Parvati and is depicted riding a bull.

• Brahmacharini: The second day is devoted to Brahmacharini, a form of Parvati. She symbolizes penance and devotion.

• Chandraghanta: the third day is dedicated to Chandraghanta, who has a half-moon on her forehead. She represents bravery and courage.

• Kushmanda: The fourth day is for Kushmanda, the creator of the universe. Her name means "the cosmic egg."

• Skandamata: The fifth day is in honor of Skandamata, the mother of Kartikeya (Skanda), who rides a lion.

• Katyayani: On the sixth day, Katyayani, the warrior goddess, is worshiped. She is said to have been born from the combined energy of all the gods.

• Kaalratri: The seventh day is dedicated to Kaalratri, a fierce form of Durga who is believed to protect her devotees from all harm.

• Mahagauri: The eighth day is for Mahagauri, the symbol of purity and calmness. She is depicted in white attire.

• Siddhidatri: The ninth day is devoted to Siddhidatri, the granter of supernatural powers. She blesses her devotees with knowledge and wisdom.

The Historical Significance of Navratri

Navratri has historical roots and was celebrated by ancient civilizations in the Indian subcontinent. In the northern region, the festival marks the beginning of the harvest season and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. In the southern region, it is often associated with the worship of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and music.

The Mysore Dasara festival celebrated in Karnataka, is one of the most famous and grand Navratri celebrations in India. It attracts tourists from all over the world to witness the grand procession and cultural events.

The Modern Significance of Navratri

Navratri is not just a religious festival; it holds cultural significance as well. It's a time when communities come together to celebrate and promote traditional arts and music, particularly dance. Garba and Dandiya Raas are two traditional dance forms that are performed during Navratri. People dress in colorful attire and participate in these dance forms, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

Garba and Dandiya Raas

• Garba: Garba is a circular dance performed by women and men, with dancers forming concentric circles. They move gracefully in a clockwise direction, clapping their hands to the rhythm of the music. Garba is often accompanied by traditional folk songs.

• Dandiya Raas: Dandiya Raas is a partner dance performed with sticks, where men and women dance in pairs. The dancers use colorful sticks, striking them in rhythm with the music. This dance represents the playful interaction between Lord Krishna and the gopis.

Social and Cultural Bonding

Navratri provides an opportunity for people to come together, irrespective of their background or age, to celebrate the joy of life. It fosters a sense of unity and promotes social bonding. The festival also supports local artisans and musicians, as it provides a platform for them to showcase their talents.

The Significance of Fasting and Prayer

During Navratri, many devotees observe fasts and engage in prayers and meditation. Fasting is seen as a way to purify the body and soul. It is believed that abstaining from certain foods during this period allowed individuals to focus their energy on spiritual growth and devotion to the goddess.

Benefits of Fasting During Navratri:

• Detoxification: Fasting can help in detoxifying the body by giving the digestive system a break.

• Increased Self-Discipline: Fasting requires self-discipline and control over one's desires, promoting inner strength.

• Spiritual Connection: The act of fasting and prayer helps individuals connect with the divine on a deeper level.

Navratri Around the World

Navratri is not limited to India alone. It is celebrated by Hindus worldwide. In the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries with significant Indian communities, Navratri festivities are enthusiastically observed. These celebrations include traditional dance, music, and prayers.

Conclusion

Navratri is a festival that combines spiritual significance with cultural celebrations. It tells the story of the triumph of good over evil and offers a chance for self-purification, prayer, and devotion. As the nine nights of Navratri approach, people of all ages come together to dance, sing, and celebrate the divine feminine energy. It is a time for unity, self-reflection, and joy, making Navratri one of the most cherished and colorful festivals in India and among the Indian diaspora.