Celebrating Shardiya Navratri Across India
Aarti at Jhandewalan Temple, Delhi
In New Delhi, the morning aarti was performed at the Jhandewalan Temple on the fifth day of Shardiya Navratri. This day is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Durga in the form of Mata Skandamata.
Festivities in Gujarat
In Jamnagar, Gujarat, young people celebrated Navratri by performing Garba with flambeau and dancing on burning embers.
Navratri in Madhya Pradesh
In Indore Central Jail, Madhya Pradesh, inmates participated in the Garba dance to celebrate Navratri.
Durga Puja in West Bengal
In Kolkata, West Bengal, a Durga Puja pandal themed ‘The Sphere’ was created at Santosh Mitra Square, featuring 11D movies and light displays.
Significance of Skandamata
Goddess Skandamata, worshipped on this day, is depicted with four arms riding a lion, holding her son Skanda. Worshipping her is believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes and bring happiness.
Navratri Celebrations
Navratri, meaning ‘nine nights’, is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. Celebrated with devotion across India, it includes rituals and prayers. In North India, Ramlila performances are held, concluding with Vijayadashami, marked by burning effigies of King Ravana.
Doubts Revealed
Shardiya Navratri -: Shardiya Navratri is a Hindu festival that lasts for nine nights, celebrating the goddess Durga and her nine forms. It usually takes place in the autumn season.
Aarti -: Aarti is a Hindu religious ritual of worship, where light from wicks soaked in ghee or camphor is offered to deities. It is a way to show devotion and seek blessings.
Jhandewalan Temple -: Jhandewalan Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Delhi, dedicated to the goddess Durga. It is a popular place for devotees to visit during Navratri.
Mata Skandamata -: Mata Skandamata is one of the nine forms of the goddess Durga, worshipped on the fifth day of Navratri. She is known as the mother of Lord Skanda, also known as Kartikeya.
Garba -: Garba is a traditional dance form from Gujarat, performed during Navratri. It involves rhythmic clapping and circular movements, often accompanied by music.
Flambeau -: A flambeau is a flaming torch, sometimes used in traditional dances like Garba to add excitement and visual appeal.
Indore Central Jail -: Indore Central Jail is a prison located in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. During Navratri, even inmates participate in celebrations like Garba dance.
Durga Puja -: Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival, especially in Kolkata, celebrating the goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. It involves elaborate decorations, rituals, and cultural events.
Pandal -: A pandal is a temporary structure set up during festivals like Durga Puja to house the idol of the deity and host celebrations. They are often creatively themed and decorated.
Ramlila -: Ramlila is a dramatic folk re-enactment of the life of Lord Rama, ending with his victory over the demon king Ravana. It is performed during Navratri, especially in North India.
Vijayadashami -: Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, marks the end of Navratri. It celebrates the victory of good over evil, symbolized by Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.
