Navratri is one of the most revered annual Hindu festivals marking the nine-day celebration of Goddess Durga's victory over evil forces. This nine-day festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her various forms.
- Support: contact@everestbeads.com
The word 'Navratri' means ‘nine nights’, and during these auspicious nights and days, nine incarnations of Goddess Durga are worshiped with great devotion.
Whereas, in Nepal, Navratri holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. Known as Dashain in the country, this nine-day festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her various forms, representing power, prosperity, and protection.
Dashain, one of the most anticipated Hindu festivals in Nepal, marks the victory of good over evil and is celebrated with grand rituals and family gatherings.
What is Navratri?
Navratri defines "nine nights," with the celebration of Goddess Durga, the embodiment of strength, power, and wisdom. Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, signifying her virtues and blessings. The festival is divided into three segments:
First three days: Goddess Durga is worshiped as Shakti, the symbol of power.
Next three days: Devotees honor Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
Last three days: Prayers are offered to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
The final day, Vijaya Dashami, symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
Date and Celebration of Navratri 2024
In 2024, Shardiya Navratri begins on Thursday, 3 October 2024, and concludes with Vijaya Dashami on Saturday, 12 October 2024.
Key Dates for Navratri 2024:
Ghatasthapana: Thursday, 3 October 2024
Durgashtami: Friday, 11 October 2024
Maha Navami: Friday, 11 October 2024
Vijaya Dashami: Saturday, 12 October 2024
Story Behind Shardiya Navratri
According to Hindu mythology, during the great battle of Lanka, Lord Rama was advised by Lord Brahma to worship Goddess Durga to defeat the powerful Ravana. The worship, known as Chandi Puja, involved 108 rare lotus flowers. However, one of these flowers was stolen by Ravana’s magical powers, which could have hindered Lord Rama’s worship. Determined, Lord Rama decided to offer one of his own eyes, as he was also called 'Kamal Nayan' (lotus-eyed). As he prepared to do so, Goddess Durga appeared, pleased with his devotion, and blessed him with victory.
In another version, Hanuman, in disguise, disrupted Ravana’s own Chandi Puja by reciting verses that made Goddess Durga turn against Ravana, leading to his ultimate defeat.
Read More : How to wear a Rudraksha for the first time
How to perform Navratri Puja in 2024?
Shardiya Navratri will be celebrated from October 3rd to October 11th, 2024, and it’s a time of devotion, fasting, and worship. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, with specific rituals and offerings.
The puja begins with the establishment of the Kalash (sacred urn), symbolizing purity and divine presence. The auspicious time for Kalash Sthapana (establishment) in 2024 is from 06:
Important Dates of Shardiya Navratri 2024
Day 1 (Shailputri Puja): October 3, 2024
Day 2 (Brahmacharini Puja): October 4, 2024
Day 3 (Chandraghanta Puja): October 5, 2024
Day 4 (Kushmanda Puja): October 6, 2024
Day 5 (Skandamata Puja): October 7, 2024
Day 6 (Katyayani Puja): October 8, 2024
Day 7 (Kalratri Puja): October 9, 2024
Day 8 (Mahagauri Puja): October 10, 2024
Day 9 (Siddhidatri Puja): October 11, 2024
Vijayadashami (Dussehra): October 12, 2024
Navratri 2024 Fasting
Many devotees choose to observe fasts during these nine days as a form of spiritual discipline. Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, signifying her virtues and blessings. The festival is divided into three segments:
First three days: Goddess Durga is worshipped as Shakti, the symbol of power.
Next three days: Devotees honor Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
Last three days: Prayers are offered to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
The final day, Vijaya Dashami, symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
Read More: All About Shravan 2024: 5 ways to worship Lord Shiva
Religious Significance of Navratri
Navratri represents the eternal battle between good and evil. The festival primarily celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, after nine nights of intense fighting. The tenth day, Vijaya Dashami, signifies her victory, celebrated as Dussehra across India.
Another legend ties Navratri to Lord Rama’s prayers to Durga before his battle against Ravana, seeking her blessings for victory. This festival is also associated with Uma, daughter of King Daksha, returning to her parental home during Navratri.
Navratri 2024 Colors
Here are the colors for Navratri 2024, with each day dedicated to a specific color:
October 3 (Day 1): Yellow - It symbolizes happiness and brightness.
October 4 (Day 2): Green - It represents growth and harmony.
October 5 (Day 3): Gray - It stands for balance and neutrality.
October 6 (Day 4): Orange - It symbolizes strength and enthusiasm.
October 7 (Day 5): White - It represents purity and peace.
October 8 (Day 6): Red - It stands for energy and power.
October 9 (Day 7): Royal Blue - It symbolizes depth and stability.
October 10 (Day 8): Pink - It represents love, compassion and harmony.
Nine Mukhi Nava Durga Mala for this Navratri
Celebrate the power of Durga with our Nine Mukhi Rudraksha combination mala, Nava Durga Mala, representing Goddess Durga herself. Enhance your spiritual journey and invite strength, protection, and divine energy into your life this festive season. Shop now at Everest Beads to harness the benefits of this sacred Rudraksha Mala during this Navratri.
Conclusion
Navratri 2024 will be a time of deep devotion, joy, and cultural celebration. With each day dedicated to a different avatar of Goddess Durga, this festival is a reminder of the victory of good over evil, and the values of strength, knowledge, and prosperity that are central to Indian tradition.
Prepare to welcome Navratri with prayers, rituals, fasting, and colorful celebrations to honor the goddess and seek her blessings. For devotees looking to enhance their spiritual practices during Navratri, consider purchasing Rudraksha from Everest Beads, the best shop in Nepal for genuine Nepali Rudraksha.
FAQ's
What are the dates for Shardiya Navratri 2024?
In 2024 Navratri will be celebrated from October 3rd to October 12. The exact dates may vary based on regional calendars.
What is the significance of Navratri?
Navaratri celebrates the divine feminine and the victory of good over evil, honoring the goddess Durga in her various forms. It is a time for spiritual renewal, devotion, and cultural festivities.
What are the daily rituals performed during Navratri?
The daily rituals include puja , fasting, scripture reading, and spiritual practices. Each day is dedicated to a different aspect of the goddess, with specific offerings and prayers.
How can i participate in fasting during Navratri?
You can choose to observe full or partial fasts, typically avoiding meat, wheat, and certain grains. Eating fruits, vegetables, and specific grains like buckwheat is common during this time.
For More Information: Why do people buy Rudraksha from Nepal? Nepalese Rudraksha
You can also request us a free consultation to help you choose perfect rudraksha by contacting us.
Tags:
