Navratri Celebrations Across India
As the festival of Sharadiya Navaratri begins, temples across India are filled with devotees celebrating the nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. On the fifth day, many gathered at the Shri Adhya Katyayani Shaktipith Mandir in Delhi’s Chhatarpur and the Badi Devkali Devi Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, to perform Aarti and offer prayers.
Significance of Navratri
Navratri is a vibrant Hindu festival that spans nine nights, celebrating the divine feminine energy of Goddess Durga. Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, symbolizing strength, compassion, and wisdom. Devotees engage in fasting, singing devotional songs, and participating in traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya.
Worship of Sri Maha Chandika Devi
During Sharadiya Navratri, Sri Kanakadurga is adorned as Sri Maha Chandika Devi, embodying the ‘Trishakti’ aspect of Mahalakshmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati. Worshiping her is akin to worshiping all deities, granting knowledge, fame, and wealth.
Rituals and Traditions
The festival includes rituals like Ghatasthapana, the invocation of goddess Shakti. The seventh day is dedicated to ‘Maa Kaalratri’, known for destroying demons and negative energies. Navratri concludes with Rama Navami, celebrating Lord Ram’s birthday.
Doubts Revealed
Navratri -: Navratri is a Hindu festival that lasts for nine days. It is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Durga and her different forms. People celebrate with fasting, singing, and dancing.
Goddess Durga -: Goddess Durga is a powerful Hindu goddess known for her strength and protection. She is often depicted riding a lion and is worshipped during Navratri.
Aarti -: Aarti is a Hindu religious ritual of worship. It involves the waving of lighted lamps in front of deities while singing devotional songs.
Rama Navami -: Rama Navami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birthday of Lord Ram, a major deity in Hinduism. It marks the end of the Navratri festival.
New Delhi -: New Delhi is the capital city of India. It is a major cultural and political center where many festivals are celebrated.
Uttar Pradesh -: Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, including many famous temples.
