Navratri, one of India’s largest and most vibrant festivals, is celebrated with grandeur and devotion across the country. It is a nine-night festival dedicated to the worship of the nine avatars of Goddess Shakti, celebrating the feminine divinity. The nine avatars, known as Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Maa Skandamata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kalaratri, Maa Mahagauri, and Maa Siddhidatri, hold a special place in the hearts of devotees.
In North India, Navratri is observed with fasting, puja rituals, and customs, reflecting a deep sense of devotion. In East India, it’s celebrated as Durga Puja, commemorating the homecoming of Goddess Durga along with her four children – Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Saraswati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kartik. This festive occasion is marked with immense enthusiasm in West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Assam.
Gujarat, however, stands out in its grandeur during Navratri. The state observes Navratri as one of its most significant festivals. Each day of Navratri corresponds to a specific color, and devotees adhere to the color of the day, adorning themselves in matching attire. The festive spirit extends to homes, streets, and temples beautifully decorated with lights and colors. An earthen pot called “garbi” is prominently featured for the daily aarti dedicated to Goddess Shakti.
One of the major attractions during Navratri is the traditional Navratri dance called Garba. Men and women wear traditional Garba outfits and participate in the rhythmic dance, which often involves the use of dandiyas (sticks). Through this dance and other cultural activities, mythological stories and legends are narrated, including the dramatic portrayal of the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Navratri is a time of joy, togetherness, and deep spiritual connection, uniting people from various regions and backgrounds in the celebration of divine femininity and cultural diversity.
