Navratri

Navratri, the festival of nine nights, occurs four times a year. These are Magha Navratri (winter), Chaitra Navratri (spring), Ashadha Navratri (monsoon), and Sharad Navratri (autumn). However, Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri hold special significance. The other two Navratris are kept private.During Chaitra Navratri, various forms of the Goddess are worshipped, and the ninth day is celebrated as Rama Navami because, according to legends, Lord Rama was born on this day. On the other hand, during Sharad Navratri, the ninth day is celebrated as Mahanavami, and on the tenth day, devotees enthusiastically celebrate Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra.It is believed that on Vijayadashami, Goddess Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura, and Lord Rama also defeated Ravana. Worshiping the different forms of the Goddess during Chaitra Navratri strengthens devotees mentally and fulfills their spiritual desires. Whereas during Sharad Navratri, worshiping the various forms of the Goddess fulfills devotees' worldly desires.

Method of worship

During Chaitra or Sharad Navratri, devotees worship the various forms of the Goddess with complete devotion. However, due to regional differences, there can be variations in the worship rituals as customs and traditions vary among people. It is advisable to follow your own tradition while performing the worship.Nevertheless, if you wish to know the general method of worship, you can refer to articles available on Sanatan Jyoti, which describe the different forms of the Goddess.

Form of Mata Parvati during Navratri

During Navratri, devotees get to witness the nine forms of the Goddess, and their worship is done in the form of all nine goddesses. The first form is Shailputri, the second is Brahmacharini, the third is Chandraghanta, the fourth is Kushmanda, the fifth is Skand Mata, the sixth is Katyayani, the seventh is Kalratri, the eighth is Mahagauri, and the ninth is Siddhidatri. All these goddesses are forms of Goddess Parvati. The blessings of all these goddesses provide immense merit to the devotee, whether they are women or men observing the fast.When the creation of the universe occurred, Mother Durga manifested as the primordial energy. At that time, all the gods worshiped and revered Mother Durga. Pleased by their devotion, Mother Durga blessed the gods for their welfare. Since then, the tradition of celebrating Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri has been followed.

Importance of fasting

The benefits obtained from worshiping Maa Durga on other days multiply manifold when she is worshiped during Navratri. Therefore, devotees should worship Maa Durga during Navratri and if possible, observe a fast as well. Observing a fast not only improves health but also enhances spiritual strength. Worshiping Maa Durga eradicates the negative energies of our minds and instills positive energies, purifying our minds completely. Fasting alleviates physical discomforts and promotes good health.

Related topics

• Shailputri Prathma
• Brahamcharini Dutiya
• Chandraghanta Tratiya
• Kushmanda Chaturthi
• Skandamata Panchami
• Katyayani Shasthi
• Kalratri Saptami
• Durga Ashtami (Mahagauri)
• Siddhidatri Navami