NAVRATRI marks one of the most important times of the year in the Hindu calendar. Here’s everything you need to know about the celebration, including what each of the nine colours means. What is Navratri? Navratri, literally “nine nights”, is a Hindu celebration in honour of the goddess Durga. Technically, there are four Navratri every […]
NAVRATRI marks one of the most important times of the year in the Hindu calendar.
Here’s everything you need to know about the celebration, including what each of the nine colours means.
Navratri, literally “nine nights”, is a Hindu celebration in honour of the goddess Durga.
Technically, there are four Navratri every year – one for each season – but it is the autumn festival which is most celebrated.
For many, the story behind the nine-day celebration is to do with a battle between the goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura, who represents egotism.
Other Hindus instead celebrate the victory of god Rama over the demon king Ravana during this time.
In all cases, the theme of Navratri is a battle between good and evil, with the forces of good triumphing in the end.
Many devotees will fast for the nine days of Navratri, cutting most everyday foods from their diets and eating potatoes and fruit instead.
Meanwhile, celebrations take place throughout the week, including reenactments of the legendary battle between gods and demons.
Crafts and dances are also popular, as well as the creation of statues symbolising important religious figures.
The exact dates are determined by the Hindu calendar, so they can change from year to year.
This year, Navratri starts on Sunday, September 29.
It will run until Tuesday, October 8.
On each day of Navratri, a colour is assigned which participants are expected to wear while celebrating.
Each day and each colour is dedicated to a form of the goddess Durga. Here’s what it all means:
