Navratri is a nine-night Hindu festival that reveres the divine feminine energy and commemorates the triumph of good over evil. Navratri, which translates to "Nine Nights," is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, typically falling in September or October.

Navratri 2023 starts on October 15, Sunday. Navratri 2023 ends on October 24, Tuesday.

Important Timings for Navratri 2023:

Abhijit Muhurat Time October 15, 11:49 AM - 12:35 PM
Ghatasthapana Muhurta October 15, 06:27 AM - 10:17 AM
Pratipada Tithi Timings October 14, 11:25 PM - October 16, 12:32 AM
Dwitiya Tithi Timings October 16, 12:32 AM - October 17, 01:13 AM
Tritiya Tithi Timings October 17, 01:13 AM - October 18, 01:26 AM
Chaturthi Tithi Timings October 18, 01:26 AM - October 19, 01:12 AM
Panchami Tithi Timings October 19, 01:12 AM - October 20, 12:32 AM
Shashthi Tithi Timings October 20, 12:32 AM - 11:25 PM
Saptami Tithi Timings October 20, 11:25 PM - October 21, 09:53 PM
Ashtami Tithi Timings October 21, 09:53 PM - October 22, 07:59 PM
Navami Tithi Timings October 22, 07:59 PM - October 23, 05:45 PM
Dashami Tithi Timings October 23, 05:45 PM - October 24, 03:14 PM

Significance: The core significance of Navratri lies in the worship of different forms of the goddess Durga, also known as Devi or Shakti. Each day of the festival is dedicated to a specific aspect of the goddess. These nine forms are:

  1. Shailaputri: She represents the daughter of the mountains and symbolizes the power of nature.
  2. Brahmacharini: This form signifies the ascetic and disciplined aspect of the goddess.
  3. Chandraghanta: She is associated with courage and bravery.
  4. Kushmanda: The creator of the universe, representing cosmic energy.
  5. Skandamata: The mother of Lord Kartikeya, embodying the nurturing aspect.
  6. Katyayani: A fierce form, symbolizing the warrior spirit.
  7. Kalaratri: The dark and destructive aspect, representing the time of death and destruction.
  8. Mahagauri: A symbol of purity and grace.
  9. Siddhidatri: The bestower of supernatural powers and accomplishments.

Rituals:

  1. Fasting: Many devotees observe fasts during Navratri, refraining from consuming grains, meat, and alcohol. They may eat fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
  2. Garba and Dandiya: In Gujarat, Garba and Dandiya dances are a significant part of the celebrations. People dress in colorful traditional attire and dance in circles to devotional songs.
  3. Decorations: Homes and temples are adorned with vibrant decorations, including rangoli (colorful patterns on the ground) and garlands of marigold flowers.
  4. Meditation and Prayer: Devotees gather in temples and at home to recite hymns, sing bhajans, and meditate, seeking blessings from the goddess.
  5. Goddess Visits: Many people visit temples dedicated to the goddess Durga during these nine days, seeking her blessings and participating in the Aarti (a ritual of offering light and incense).
  6. Idol Immersion: The festival culminates with the immersion of the Durga idols in water bodies, symbolizing the departure of the goddess and the triumph of good over evil.
  7. Cultural Programs: In addition to traditional rituals, Navratri is a time for cultural performances, including music and dance shows, which bring communities together.
  8. Charitable Acts: Some devotees use this time to engage in acts of charity and community service, spreading love and positivity.