Navratri 2023 Sets to Begin: The much-awaited Navratri festival is almost here. Following the conclusion of Pitru Paksha Shradh on October 14, Hindus around the world will embark on a nine-day-long journey of devotion, spirituality, and celebration starting on October 15, as per the Hindu calendar. Navratri, also known as Shardiya Navratri, is a festival dedicated to the worship of Maa Durga in her nine different divine forms, and it is observed with great reverence and enthusiasm by devotees globally.

The Divine Descent:

Navratri holds immense significance as it is believed that during these nine days, Goddess Durga descends to Earth, making this period highly auspicious. Devotees observe fasts, meditate, pray to Goddess Durga, and seek her blessings. They also set up pandals for Durga Puja and organize vibrant Garba nights, where people come together to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

When is Navratri 2023?

Navratri, or Shardiya Navratri, commences on the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month, as per the Hindu calendar. This usually falls in September or October each year in the Gregorian calendar. In 2023, Navratri begins on October 15 and continues until October 23. The auspicious Kalashsthapana or Ghatasthapana Muhurat is set from 11:44 AM to 12:30 PM on October 15, 2023.

History, Significance, and Facts:

The term "Navratri" is a fusion of two words: 'Nav,' meaning nine, and 'Ratri,' meaning nights. Thus, Navratri signifies nine nights. Each of these nine days is dedicated to celebrating a different avatar of Maa Durga, namely:

Shailaputri on Day 1
Brahmacharini on Day 2
Chandraghanta on Day 3
Kushmanda on Day 4
Skandamata on Day 5
Katyayani on Day 6
Kalaratri on Day 7
Mahagauri on Day 8
Siddhidatri on Day 9

All these nine avatars of Goddess Durga represent the divine feminine energy. Devotees seek Maa Durga's blessings during this auspicious time to fulfill their desires, attain protection and strength, and progress on their spiritual journey.

The Colors of Navratri:

Each day of Navratri is associated with a specific color, and devotees traditionally wear clothes of these colors on the corresponding days:

Day 1: Orange
Day 2: White
Day 3: Red
Day 4: Royal Blue
Day 5: Yellow
Day 6: Green
Day 7: Grey
Day 8: Purple
Day 9: Peacock Green

For those who do not adhere to the color scheme, it is advisable to wear bright and cheerful colors, while avoiding the color black, which is considered inauspicious during Hindu festivities.

The Triumph of Good Over Evil:

Legend has it that when the demon King Mahishasura grew too powerful and egotistical, no one could defeat him. In response, Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh combined their divine energies to create Maa Durga. During the nine days of Navratri, Goddess Durga descended to Earth and engaged in a fierce battle with Mahishasura. She ultimately vanquished him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami. Thus, Navratri is a jubilant celebration of the victory of good over evil.

Navratri is particularly exuberant in Gujarat, with Garba nights organized in most places. Meanwhile, in West Bengal and Orissa, the festival is celebrated with great fervor as Durga Puja, featuring grand processions and artistic displays of the goddess.

As we approach Navratri 2023, it is an opportunity to embrace the divine feminine power, celebrate the triumph of good over evil, and seek blessings from Maa Durga as she graces our world with her presence. It's a time of prayer, devotion, and community, where the colors, dances, and chants come together to create a vibrant and spiritually enriching experience.