Navratri 2025: First day of Shardiya Navratri begins today, devotees across worship Goddess Durga

Navratri 2025: First day of Shardiya Navratri begins today, devotees across worship Goddess Durga (image: ANI)

The first day of Shardiya Navratri 2025 began with grand celebrations across the country as devotees thronged temples to offer prayers to Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. In Ayodhya, a large number of devotees gathered at the Devkali Temple early in the morning to mark the auspicious beginning of the nine-day festival.

Navratri Celebrations Begin Nationwide

From Ayodhya to Delhi and Mumbai, the spirit of Navratri was seen in full fervor. In the national capital, heavy crowds were witnessed at the famous Kalkaji Temple and Jhandewalan Temple, while devotees also offered prayers at the Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir in Chhatarpur.

In Mumbai, the celebrations started with the sacred Kakad Aarti at the historic Mumbadevi Temple, symbolizing the formal commencement of the festival.

Spiritual Significance of Shardiya Navratri

Shardiya Navratri is one of the most important Hindu festivals, celebrated in the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival honors Maa Durga, the embodiment of Shakti, and her nine forms, each representing strength, wisdom, and compassion.

In Vijayawada, Sri Kanakadurga Temple adorned the goddess as Sri Maha Chandika Devi, who embodies the combined energies of Mahalakshmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati. Worshipping Maha Chandika Devi is believed to bring knowledge, wealth, fame, and divine blessings, while also protecting devotees from negativity.

Navratri Rituals and Traditions

During Navratri, devotees observe fasting, perform Durga Puja, chant mantras, and engage in cultural celebrations. Traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya add color and joy to the evenings, especially in Gujarat and western India.

Each day of Navratri is dedicated to one form of the goddess. The seventh day holds special importance as it is devoted to Maa Kaalratri, the fierce form of Durga who destroys demons and removes darkness from devotees’ lives.

A Festival of Faith and Devotion

Navratri is not just a festival but a celebration of the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and devotion over negativity. From sacred rituals to cultural festivities, the nine days of Shardiya Navratri 2025 unite devotees across India in reverence to the divine feminine energy.