What is Navratri? Significance & How to Celebrate the 9 Days

Navratri is one of the most spiritually powerful celebrations for Indians. The Divine Feminine is honoured with nine nights of worship, joy, and healing. Now, let's talk about the meaning of Navratri. This post describes what is Navratri, why should we celebrate nine days of Navratri and in which ways we can make these nine days filled with happiness and reverence. 

What is Navratri?

Navratri, which historically refers to the Nav (nine) Ratri (nights), means "nine nights." It is a festival of worshipping the Goddess Durga, who, in one representation, carries nine appellations that refer to her manifestation as Divine Mother. It occurs twice a year, but the most awaited is the Sharad Navratri, which usually occurs in the fall (between September and October). 

What is The Significance of Navratri

Nine nights of Navratri are dedicated to 9 forms of Goddess Durga. These forms range from gentle and caring to fierce and strong. A magical time when people are told to be self-disciplined, think deeply, grow emotionally, and celebrate the Divine Feminine for nine days.

Each day of Navaratri has a meaning of its own. The practices change with each nine days of Navratri in terms of prayers dedicated to revering the Goddess (Maa) in heart and mind.

What Are the 9 Days of Navratri?

Here's a brief look at what are the 9 days of Navratri and their meanings:

1. Day 1 - Shailaputri: The Goddess of the Himalayas, symbolizing purity and strength.
2. Day 2 - Brahmacharini: The Goddess of penance and austerity, representing calm and wisdom.
3. Day 3 - Chandraghanta: Known for her courage, this form is worshipped for protection and peace.
4. Day 4 - Kushmanda: The creative energy of the universe, bringing health and happiness.
5. Day 5 - Skandamata: The Goddess of motherhood and nourishment, associated with wisdom and fertility.
6. Day 6 - Katyayani: A fierce warrior Goddess representing courage and fearlessness.
7. Day 7 - Kalaratri: The fiercest form of Durga, symbolizing the destruction of evil forces.
8. Day 8 - Mahagauri: The Goddess of forgiveness and calm, representing purity and peace.
9. Day 9 - Siddhidatri: The Goddess of supernatural powers, completing the nine days of spiritual worship.

Celebrate Navratri

Navratri is celebrated through unique customs, which makes the festival look so distinctive. It is celebrated by means of garbas in Gujarat, the grand Durga Puja of Bengal, and is marked by prayers, fasting, and music that titillates all your senses. Here are a few ways to add colours to nine days of Navratri.

1. Set Up a Navratri Altar: Create a beautiful space at home dedicated to the Goddess with idols or images, fresh flowers, lamps, and incense. This becomes the central spot for daily prayers and offerings.
2. Fasting and Feasting: Many devotees fast during Navratri, consuming only certain foods like fruits, dairy, and special grains to bring spiritual purity to their minds and souls.
3. Garba and Dandiya Raas: Dance is integral to Navratri celebrations, and garba and dandiya raas are the most popular examples.
4. Dress Up in Vibrant Colours: Each day of Navratri has an associated colour. Dress accordingly to match the significance of each day and add to the festive spirit.
5. Decorate Your Home: Uplift the festive feel with traditional decor. Add items like the Durga wall art, fish ceramic plate for pujo, etc. You can explore these beautiful pieces at House of Heritage.
6. Worship Different Forms of the Goddess: Each day, perform puja dedicated to the specific form of Goddess Durga, reciting her mantras and offering flowers, fruits, and special prasad.

House of Heritage Recommendations for Navratri Decor

Navratri is a time to refresh your home with meaningful decor reflecting the festival's essence and things that bring peace to your chaotic life and everyday rush. House of Heritage has unique items that add traditional charm and modern elegance to your celebrations. Here are some suggestions:

• Gujarati Patola Lehengas: Perfect for adding a touch of tradition to your wardrobe, these lehengas bring out the vibrant spirit of Navratri and festivity colours as you prepare for a musical, soul-stirring garba night.
• The Durga Wall Art: A beautiful piece that honours the Goddess and uplifts your worship area with grace and power.
• Fish Ceramic Plate for Pujo: Add this as a delightful addition for serving prasad or as a decorative item that symbolizes abundance and prosperity.
• Colourful Kettles: Add a quirky, artistic touch to your Navratri decor with these vibrant kettles that double as decor and functional art pieces.

Also Read - Top 5 Ganpati Decoration Ideas for Celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi

Add More Joys this Navratri

Navratri is a festival that acknowledges our inner strength, devotion, and the might of the Divine Feminine. Whether through fasting, dancing, decorating your home, or wearing traditional Gujarati patola lehengas for puja and garba, each element adds to the vibrant celebration of these nine days of Navratri. May the joy, light, and blessings of these spiritual9 nights be with you always, and may the spirit of Navratri stay in your heart all year long.