Navratri: Celebrating the Triumph of Good over Evil
Photo by Sonika Agarwal on Unsplash
What is Navratri?
Navratri is a Hindu festival that spans over nine nights and is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. The word “Navratri” translates to “nine nights” in Sanskrit, and it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga and her various forms.
Why do Hindus celebrate Navratri?
Hindus celebrate Navratri to honor and seek the blessings of the goddess Durga. According to Hindu mythology, Durga is believed to have battled and defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura during these nine nights. Navratri is a time to celebrate the power and strength of the divine feminine and to seek her blessings for prosperity, happiness, and protection.
How is Navratri celebrated in different parts of India?
Navratri is celebrated with great fervor and regional variations across India. In West Bengal, Navratri coincides with Durga Puja, a grand celebration where intricately crafted idols of the goddess are worshiped and immersed in water at the end. In the state of Maharashtra, people celebrate Navratri by performing traditional folk dances called Lavani and organizing processions of decorated idols. In the southern states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Navratri is celebrated as “Golu” or “Bommai Kolu,” where dolls and figurines are displayed in homes and exchanged as gifts. In Gujarat, it is marked by vibrant and colorful Garba and Dandiya Raas dances, where people dress in traditional attire and dance in circles to the rhythmic beats of traditional music
Navratri is a time of joy, devotion, and cultural festivities. It brings people together, strengthens their faith, and celebrates the rich diversity of India’s cultural heritage.
Please Join HTCC in celebrating Navratri festival in month of April 2024. Regards, Akshay Gupta, Secretary – HTCC, 0451451791
