“Namastasye Namastasye Namastasye Namo Namah”. We all bow with great reverence to all the nine forms of Devi Durga on the Navratri days every year. This nine-day festival is one of the most significant festivals. The long queues, and the great rush of people in front of temples is a visual impression of the dedication in the hearts of devotees for their Devi Maa.
Chaitra Navratri marks the beginning of a new year as per the Hindu calendar. Navratri, which simply means nine nights, is a remarkable period of rest and rejuvenation to come out purified in body, mind and spirit. The festival has a unique importance in religious, cultural and spiritual realms. Navratri is deeply devoted to the worship of Navdurga, the nine forms of Devi Durga, each form has its special day of reverence.
The Saptashati, a holy scripture of Hindus, describes the indomitable power of Maa Durga, which is largely known as Shakti. The legendary battle between Devi Durga and the devil Mahishasura symbolises the triumph of good over evil and righteousness over wickedness. In recent times, when cruelty and dishonest practices are predominant everywhere, one is reminded of the divine power of Maa Durga embodying Shakti, trampling all the misdeeds of evil entities. Thus, Navratri distinctly elucidates the stronghold of feminine power from time immemorial.
To honor Navdurga, it is a tradition to observe fasting on these pious days. This fasting is not simply avoiding certain kinds of grains or spices, but it is mostly akin to shunning of vices in oneself and to come out purified, cleansed both mind and body. Through the chanting of Saptashati mantras or simply the memorising of the motherly love of Maa Durga the worshippers find an unprecedented peace in their life. This pure connection with Shakti Swaroopa makes one feel spiritually empowered and enlightened. Hence, these nine days not only signify the days of celebrations but also signify newness and freshness in all its forms by the divine blessings of Navdurga.
Navraratri is a time of inner journey, to awaken one's spirit and to empower inner strength. In this way, we can celebrate Navratri with its true spirit. When we give honour to women's empowerment, we truly worship the Shakti Swaroopa Maa. So, come together and ignite the spark of enlightenment by the grace of Devi Bhagwati and make our community, our city and our country morally correct and purified. May Devi Maa bless her devotees with perfect health, abundant riches and prosperous life.
With warm regards
Team Cyber Astro
