In this world of assimilation, festivals have found new meanings and interpretations. They are no more restricted geographically. Let’s take the idea of Navratri ,which was then restricted to a few Indian states but now most of the cities celebrate it with the same zeal and feeling of belongingness.
The traditional boundaries seem to have blurred and even the significance of the festival has changed to a great extent. But the essence of the celebration and devotion to the Durga Maa remains the same.
In this blog, Let’s trace the history of Navratri festival and its worldwide popularity.
The Mythological Story behind the celebrations:
Navratri, meaning “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is a time to honor the divine feminine in all its forms, primarily through the worship of the goddess Durga.
The Legend of Durga and Mahishasura
The most popular legend associated with Navratri revolves around the battle between the goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura was a powerful demon who had obtained a boon from Brahma that made him invincible to any man or god.
He wreaked havoc on the heavens and Earth, and the gods were powerless to defeat him.Desperate for help, the gods created the goddess Durga, combining the powers of all the gods.
Durga, riding a lion, engaged in a fierce battle with Mahishasura that lasted for nine nights and days.
Despite Mahishasura’s many forms and tricks, Durga ultimately defeated him, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
This is one of many stories which are attributed to the celebration and origin of Navratri celebrations.
The other story is of Lord Ram and Ravana:
In some parts of India, particularly in North India, Navratri culminates with the festival of Dussehra, which celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. The epic Ramayana tells the story of Rama’s quest to rescue his wife, Sita, from Ravana. It is said that Rama worshiped Goddess Durga for nine days to seek her blessings before going into battle. On the tenth day, he defeated Ravana, symbolizing the victory of righteousness.
Apart from these mythological beliefs, Navratri is also linked to the transition of seasons and agricultural cycles. It often coincides with the end of the monsoon season and the onset of the harvest. It is considered an auspicious time to seek blessings for prosperity and new beginnings. Traditionally, people would fast, cleanse themselves, and invoke the goddess’s blessings for a successful harvest and well-being.
The Nine Nights of Navratri:
Each of the nine nights of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of the goddess Durga, representing various aspects of the divine feminine. These forms are often depicted with different weapons, animals, and colors.
1. Shailaputri: The first night is dedicated to Shailaputri, the daughter of the mountain.
2. Brahmacharini: The second night honors Brahmacharini, the one who practices austerity.
3. Chandraghanta: The third night celebrates Chandraghanta, the one with a bell on her forehead.
4.Kushmanda: The fourth night is devoted to Kushmanda, the one who protects the universe with her smile.
5. Skandamata: The fifth night honors Skandamata, the mother of Skanda (also known as Murugan).
6.Katyayani: The sixth night is dedicated to Katyayani, the fierce warrior.
7. Mahagauri: The seventh night celebrates Mahagauri, the great white one.
8. Siddhidatri: The eighth night honors Siddhidatri, the one who grants Siddhis (powers).
9.Durga: The ninth night culminates in the worship of Durga, the ultimate form of the goddess.
Shades of Navratri – Regional Variations:
North India: In North India, Navratri is celebrated with Ramlila performances, where episodes from the Ramayana are enacted. The final day of Navratri, Dussehra, is marked by the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna to symbolize the destruction of evil. The festival involves fasting, prayers, and religious rituals, especially in the northern states of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Rajasthan.
West Bengal and Eastern India: In West Bengal and parts of East India, Navratri coincides with Durga Puja, which celebrates Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are set up, and idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped. The last four days of Navratri (Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami) are the most significant here, with cultural programs, processions, and feasts. The immersion of Durga idols in water on Vijayadashami signifies her return to Mount Kailash, her divine abode.
Gujarat: In Gujarat, Navratri is celebrated with vibrant Garba and Dandiya dance forms. The dance is performed around a clay pot or an image of the goddess, symbolizing the circle of life. Devotees fast, wear colorful traditional attire, and sing devotional songs in praise of the goddess.
South India: In South India, Navratri has a unique flavor, with the focus on Golu (also called Bommai Golu or Kolu), a display of dolls and figurines on steps, which represent mythological scenes, daily life, and the divine feminine. People invite friends and family to view their Golu, offer prayers, and share sweets. In Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, each day is dedicated to worshipping different goddesses, including Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Durga.
Maharashtra: Navratri in Maharashtra is similar to the celebrations in Gujarat, with Garba and Dandiya playing a central role. Families also engage in Ayudha Puja, where they worship tools and instruments to show respect for their livelihood.
Worldwide: As there happens to be migration of Indians throughout the world. The “ Non Resident Indians” have popularised the celebration of Navratri Worldwide.
Present Dimensions of Navratri:
-Today, Navratri continues to be a major cultural event in India. People from different walks of life participate in various forms of worship, dance, music, and community gatherings.
-In urban areas, modern adaptations include large-scale Garba nights, performances, and mass prayers.
-The festival has retained its essence of devotion and celebration, blending tradition with contemporary elements.
Navratri is a celebration of the divine feminine and the power of good over evil. It’s a reminder of inner strength, the power of faith, and the triumph of virtue. Different regions and communities may celebrate in diverse ways, but the underlying themes of devotion, prosperity, and joy remain universal.