Shardiya Navratri: History & Significance
Shardiya Navratri is one of the most sacred festivals in Hindu culture. During Navaratra, it is the tradition of the devotees of India and around the world to pay dedication to the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
They pray intending to get blessings for safety, wealth, and health. The traditions and its celebrations make Navratri undoubtedly a fascinating festival. Let’s know more about the significance of Navratri in this blog.
History of Navratri
The festival of Navratri, particularly Shardiya Navratri, has been observed for thousands of years and is associated with Sanatan dharma. This festival is based around nine nights and celebrates the triumph of good over evil, symbolizing the demon Mahishasura defeated by Goddess Durga.
Mahishasura, an asura, was a mighty demon who received a boon to make him nearly unbeatable – no man could kill the demon. His ruthless rule prevailed in the three realms of the universe, and the deities were powerless against him.
This was the time when the gods and devas formed Goddess Durga, who was their manifestation of collective power. She fought the demon Mahishasura for nine days and nights while being carried on a lion and armed with divine weapons, she killed him on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra.
For these reasons, the Navratri festival celebrates womanhood and the triumph of good over evil. This is also why we observe 9 days of Navratri.
Navadurga and the Significance of Each Day of Navratri
Navratri spans over nine days, each dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, known as Navadurga. The importance of each day of Navratri holds immense spiritual value:
1. Day 1 - Shailaputri
The first day is dedicated to Shailaputri, the daughter of the mountains. She symbolizes strength and is the embodiment of Mother Nature. Devotees worship her to attain stability in life.
2. Day 2 - Brahmacharini
On this day, Brahmacharini, the goddess of penance and austerity, is worshipped. She teaches the values of discipline and devotion.
3. Day 3 - Chandraghanta
Representing beauty and bravery, Chandraghanta is worshipped on the third day. Her blessings bestow peace and prosperity on her devotees.
4. Day 4 - Kushmanda
Kushmanda, who created the universe with her smile, is worshipped on the fourth day. She is the goddess of creation and radiates energy to bring about life and light.
5. Day 5 - Skandamata
The fifth day is dedicated to Skandamata, the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya). She signifies the bond between a mother and her child, representing maternal love and protection.
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6. Day 6 - Katyayani
On this day, Katyayani is worshipped. She is considered the warrior goddess, fierce and strong, and her worship removes all obstacles in the path of devotees.
Also Read: Who Were the Sons and Daughters of Krishna?
7. Day 7 - Kalaratri
Kalaratri, the most ferocious form of Durga, is worshipped on the seventh day. She destroys ignorance and darkness and grants courage to her devotees.
8. Day 8- Mahagauri
On the eighth day, Mahagauri, who represents purity, is worshipped. Her blessings purify the mind and body.
9. Day 9 - Siddhidatri
The final day is dedicated to Siddhidatri, the goddess who grants her followers divine powers or ‘siddhis.’ She represents fulfillment and the realization of spiritual desires.
There is huge importance of each day of navratri because it reflects the different aspects of life and spirituality, making this festival a holistic journey toward self-realization.
Also Read: 12 Food-Based Superstitions in India
Shardiya Navratri 2024
In 2024, Shardiya Navratri will begin on Thu, 3 Oct and end on Sat, 12 Oct. During this time, devotees worldwide will observe fasts, perform special prayers, and engage in various rituals to honor Goddess Durga. This period is auspicious for embarking on new endeavors and is a time of rejuvenation and introspection for many.
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Rituals of Navratri & How It Is Celebrated
Navratri celebrations vary across different regions of India but are unified in their devotion to Goddess Durga. Some of the key rituals include:
1. Kalash Sthapana: Navratri begins with the establishment of a sacred pot, or Kalash, symbolizing the presence of the goddess. This ritual is performed to invoke Durga’s blessings and initiate the festival.
2. Fasting: Devotees observe fasts during the nine days of Navratri. Some may fast by consuming only fruits and dairy, while others completely abstain from food. This act of fasting is believed to purify the body and mind.
3. Durga Puja: Throughout Navratri, special prayers and hymns are dedicated to the goddess. Many homes and temples hold elaborate Durga Puja ceremonies, accompanied by chanting and offerings.
4. Garba and Dandiya Raas: In the western parts of India, particularly Gujarat, the evenings come alive with traditional folk dances like Garba and Dandiya. Navratri celebrations observe dancers twirling in colorful costumes, celebrating the divine energy of Durga with joy and vigor.
5. Ramlila: In northern India, Navratri coincides with Ramlila, a theatrical reenactment of Lord Rama’s life. The festival concludes with Dussehra, celebrating Rama’s victory over Ravana.
Rituals of Navratri & How It Is Celebrated
Each day of Navratri is associated with a specific color with a special meaning. Devotees wear these colors as part of the celebration. Here are the 9 Navratri days colors:
Day 1: Royal Blue
Day 2: Yellow
Day 3: Green
Day 4: Grey
Day 5: Orange
Day 6: White
Day 7: Red
Day 8: Sky Blue
Day 9: Pink
Wearing these colors is believed to enhance the spiritual energy of the 9 days of Navratri and align with the blessings of the goddess.
Conclusion
Shardiya Navratri is much more than a festival; it is a period of spiritual renewal, devotion, and cultural celebration. The rituals, prayers, and colors of Navratri reflect the diverse traditions and the deep-rooted significance of this auspicious time.
If you want to know more about the significance of these prayers and other astrological factors in your life, you can get in touch with Dr. Sanjay Sethi, the best astrologer in Gurgaon. He has over 33 years of experience in astrology and has helped many individuals get answers to their life questions.
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Dr. Sanjay Sethi, a renowned Astro-Numerologist, Rudraksha Specialist, Gemologist, and Scientific Vastu Expert, boasts 33 years of experience and a global clientele, including industrialists, film stars, politicians, and cricketers. He’s received multiple prestigious awards for his services, blending ancient wisdom with modern science to alleviate suffering worldwide. Dr. Sethi’s mission is to combine ancient knowledge with modern science for the well-being of his clients, promoting authentic, research-based solutions.