Navratri, which means 'nine nights' is a festival which coincides with the onset of winter in South Asia, it is one of the most popular and widely celebrated in many parts of the country especially in the state of Gujrat.
Devotees faithfully worship all the nine forms of Goddess Durga, who destroyed the demon Mahishasura they observe fast, perform puja and dress according to the specific colors associated with nine days.
The festival is solely dedicated to feminine divinity referred to as Shakti special pujas are held for Goddess Shakti on this day an earthen pot known as 'garbi' is used for aarti. Highlight of this festival is garba, a dance form originated in the Saurashtra and Kutch regions of the state , garba is performed around centrally lit lamp or a picture or idol of Shakti.
The legend says that the demon Mahishasura was granted immortality by Lord Brahma on a condition that he could only be defeated by a women considering that no women could kill him, he started causing upheaval in all the three realms earth, heaven and hell. In order to stop him from wreaking havoc, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva combined their powers and created Goddess Durga, a 15- day long battle was fought between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura.
During these days, Mahishasura kept changing his shape and form in order to confuse the Goddess the day, he assumed the form of a buffalo, Goddess slew him with her mighty Trishul.
Significance of the nine days -
Navratri begins by worshipping Goddess Shailputri, daughter of the king of mountains, Parvati who is worshipped as the consort of Lord Shiva.
On the second day, Goddess Bramcharini, the second avatar of Goddess Durga is worshipped to attain Moksha.
The third day celebrates Goddess Chandra ghanta for peace , tranquility and prosperity in life.
On the fourth day, Goddess Kushmanda, considered the originator of universe is worshipped.
The fifth day is dedicated to Goddess Skandmata she represents the vulnerability of a mother who can fight anyone when the need arises.
On the sixth day, Goddess Katyayani is worshipped for she was born to the great sage Kata and symbolizes courage.
On the seventh day, Goddess Kal Ratri, the fiercest form of Goddess Durga is worshipped.
The eighth day is dedicated to Goddess Maha Gauri who represents intelligence, peace, prosperity and calmness.
On the ninth day, Goddess Siddhidatri who has supernatural healing power is worshipped.
Navratri is also celebrated as Durga Puja in West Bengal the nine days of Navratri melt down the year long tiredness and restores mental cool if one is little heedful to follow a sattvic diet and meditate regularly there is a possibility of a deep body and mind detox. This Navratri pledge to relax and restore your inner peace and mental stability there is nothing more important than mental peace and keeping worshipping Goddess Durga faithfully I wish you all a very Happy Navratri may Goddess Durga shower her endless blessings on you and your family stay blessed and enjoy this nine days wonderful occasion with your family and friends.
Let the happy beats of dandiya encircle your mind and soul with spirituality prem se bolo 'Jai Mata Di"
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