On the ninth day of Navratri, devotees celebrate Maha Navami by worshipping Maa Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Maa Durga associated with the color purple. Offering kheer, puri, chana, halwa, coconut, and seasonal fruits to the Goddess is believed to fulfill all wishes. On this auspicious day, devotees also perform kanya pujan and seek blessings from the Divine Mother for happiness, prosperity, and wealth. In addition to spiritual vigor, followers believe that dressing up in purple while worshipping Navdurga can also bestow luxury and grandeur.
As Durga Puja, a nine-day holiday dedicated to the goddess Durga, is in full gear, devotees are gearing up for the final two days, Durga Ashtami and Maha Navami. These two days hold great significance during the Shardiya Navratri celebrations, with believers fasting, praying, and seeking blessings from the goddess Mahagauri. On Maha Navami, we celebrate the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and wisdom over ignorance. Let's take a look at the festive messages and wishes to send to our loved ones on this special occasion.
Sharadiya Navratri is a nine-day festival celebrating the worship of Goddess Durga. This year, the grand festival began on October 3, 2024, and will continue until October 11, 2024. On the eighth day known as Durga Ashtami, the worship of Maa Mahagauri is considered highly significant. Find out the rituals and importance of this day, including the timing of Kanya Pujan and Sandhi Puja.
On the eighth day of Navratri 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers and reverence to Maa Mahagauri and extended warm wishes to the nation. With this, India continues to revel in the vibrant festivities of Navratri, honouring the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The celebrations will culminate on October 12 with the joyous celebration of Dussehra.
As the festival of Navratri approaches, people across India are gearing up to celebrate the sixth day of this auspicious occasion, dedicated to Goddess Katyayani. This fierce form of Goddess Durga is a symbol of strength and protection in Hindu mythology. Her story of defeating the powerful demon Mahishasura serves as a reminder of the triumph of good over evil. As devotees wear red to honor her, they connect with her vibrant energy and come together in celebration during Navratri.
As Navratri approaches, it's important to know what food options align with the festival's fasting guidelines. Fruits like bananas and apples provide essential nutrients to keep you nourished throughout the day. Spices and herbs can also be used, but table salt should be avoided. Options like yogurt and dishes made with Singhara Atta are recommended, while meat, fish, and eggs are to be strictly avoided. Garlic, onion, and certain oils should also be left out of your Navratri meals.
The nine-day festival of Navratri is in full swing, with devotees celebrating day 5 by worshipping Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya. This manifestation of Goddess Durga is believed to bring blessings and favors from her son. The celebrations, marked by fasting and cultural events, exemplify a sense of community and devotion towards the deity.
A traditional garba event in Indore, organized for the past 35 years, has been cancelled due to objections from right-wing groups who accused the organizer of promoting "love jihad". The controversy arose when a poster of one of the organizers, Firoz Khan, was put up in the city ahead of Navratri celebrations. The organizer has offered to leave the city for 10 days, while requesting permission for the Devi Pujan ceremonies to continue for nine days. This incident highlights the growing tensions and issues surrounding the concept of "love jihad" in India.
As the fervor of Navratri surrounds us, take a moment to delve into the powerful legends of the goddesses being celebrated each day. On the second day, we pay tribute to Maa Brahmacharini, whose story is a testament to determination and purity of intention. From facing opposition to enduring a 5,000-year penance, her devotion eventually triumphed, making her an important symbol of strength and dedication for devotees.
As Navratri celebrations kick off in India, the film industry gathered in Kochi at a puja hosted by Kalyan Jewellers. Among the star-studded attendees was Naga Chaitanya, representing the South Indian film industry, who made a stylish appearance sporting a traditional cream-colored kurta and churidar pants. This comes at a time of controversy, with allegations made by Konda Surekha involving leading politicians and a convention center owned by Nagarjuna.