Navratri is one of the most celebrated and revered Hindu festivals, observed twice a year—once in spring (Chaitra Navratri) and again in autumn (Sharad or Shardiya Navratri). In 2024, Shardiya Navratri is set to begin on Thursday, October 3 and will continue for nine auspicious days, culminating in Dussehra or Vijayadashami on the 10th day.
This festival honours Goddess Durga, who is worshipped in her nine different forms, collectively known as Navdurga. The festivities include elaborate rituals, fasting, and prayers to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga for health, wealth, and prosperity.
Navratri 2024: Date
| Events | Day/Date |
| Navratri Day 1 | Thursday, October 3, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 2 | Friday, October 4, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 3 | Saturday, October 5, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 4 | Sunday, October 6, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 5 | Monday, October 7, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 6 | Tuesday, October 8, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 7 | Wednesday, October 9, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 8 | Thursday, October 10, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 9 | Friday, October 11, 2024 |
| Navratri Day 10 | Saturday, October 11, 2024 |
Shardiya Navratri, also known as Maha Navratri, is celebrated during the lunar month of Ashwin, which falls in the season of Sharad Ritu (autumn). The name "Shardiya Navratri" is derived from Sharad Ritu. This Navratri holds the most significance among all the Navratris celebrated in the Hindu calendar and is observed in September or October.
The nine-day festival is dedicated to Goddess Shakti, the feminine form of divine power. Each day of Navratri is associated with one of the nine avatars of Goddess Durga, and every form represents a unique characteristic of the Goddess, signifying different aspects of life.
Also Read: Durga Puja Calendar 2024: Date-wise Full Schedule, Vidhi, and Rituals
Navratri 2024: Rituals of Shardiya Navratri
The five main days of Durga Puja celebrated during Shardiya Navratri are Shashthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami, and Vijayadashami.
- Mahalaya Amavasya: Before the beginning of Shardiya Navratri, Mahalaya Amavasya is observed, marking the end of Pitru Paksha, a period dedicated to paying homage to ancestors. On the day following Mahalaya Amavasya, the Goddess Durga is believed to arrive on Earth, initiating the start of Devi Paksha and Navratri.
- Shashthi: The day of Kalparambha or Ghatasthapana. In most parts of India, Ghatasthapana is performed on Pratipada, the first day of Navratri, which is dedicated to the invocation of the Goddess.
- Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, and Maha Navami: These are the most significant days of Durga Puja, marked with grand celebrations and special prayers. Each of these days is dedicated to specific forms of Durga, with unique offerings and rituals performed in her honour.
- Vijayadashami (Dussehra): The festival concludes on the tenth day, celebrated as Dussehra or Vijayadashami, symbolising the victory of good over evil. It marks the day when Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana, and Goddess Durga triumphed over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
During Shardiya Navratri, especially in states like Gujarat and Maharashtra, women adorn themselves in nine different colours, with each day having a designated colour. The colour of each day is determined by the planet (Navgraha) associated with the respective weekday. It is believed that wearing these colours and offering prayers with devotion attract the blessings of the Goddess.
Navratri 2024: Navratri Prasad and Offerings
Each day of Navratri also corresponds to a unique Prasad (offering) made to the particular form of Navdurga worshipped on that day. These offerings are made to seek the Goddess’s blessings for various aspects of life, such as health, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
Navratri is more than just a festival; it is a period of spiritual reflection, devotion, and cultural expression. The nine days are filled with energy and reverence, as devotees engage in traditional dances, such as Garba and Dandiya Raas, and offer prayers to the Goddess. By celebrating Navratri with fervour and devotion, one invites the divine blessings of Goddess Durga into their lives, ensuring protection and prosperity.
With Shardiya Navratri 2024 starting on October 3rd, devotees across the world are eagerly looking forward to welcoming Goddess Durga and celebrating this auspicious festival with joy and reverence.
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