The vibrant hues of Durga Puja and Navratri celebrations filled India on Friday as millions prepared to bid farewell to the nine-day festivities. ‘Navami,’ the final day of Navratri, witnessed a culmination of rituals and traditions, including the ‘kanya bhoj’ (a feast for young girls), puja (worship), and havan (fire rituals). This day also marked the penultimate day of Durga Puja, commemorating the moment Goddess Durga triumphed over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
This iteration of the nine-day festival is also known as Rama Navratri, culminating on Rama Navami – the birthday of Lord Ram. During Chaitra Navratri, devotees observe fasts and pay homage to Goddess Durga. They also perform Ghatasthapana, a significant ritual that involves the invocation of goddess Shakti.
Navratri, a celebration of the divine feminine energy embodied by Goddess Durga, embraces calmness and peacefulness through the worship of Maha Gauri Mata. Shardiya Navratri, a vibrant and sacred Hindu festival, unfolds over nine nights, marked by ardent worship, elaborate rituals, and captivating cultural performances. The festival is celebrated during the lunar month of Ashwin, showcasing the deep cultural heritage of India.
