The time of celebrations begins with the onset of Shardiya Navratri. The commencement of this festival of nine proclaims the Supremacy of Maa Durga in nine forms, honoured and revered by the devotees all over India.
The coming of Shardiya Navratri with purity in atmosphere all around can be felt in every spirit connected to Shakti Swaroopa Devi Maa. The singing of Bhagwati Bhajans, Chantings of Durga Saptashati in temples, Kirtans in homes are heard from far and nearby. Local markets are flooded with crimson red coloured Chunris of Mata Rani and other essential articles of worship. The divinity of these days can be observed in the hearts of devotees, who eagerly wait for Navaratri festival.
In different parts of India, Navaratri festival is celebrated in various ways. Large pandals are designed with the adorned idol of Devi Durga. This form of Maa heralds her victory over the devil Mahishasur, declaring the all-time triumph of good over evil. This strengthens one's faith in feminine power of Mahishasurmardani Maa. In Gujrat, Garba, a grand, traditional dance is orchestrated to honour and welcome Goddess Durga, where one feels empowered within, encouraging equality among all social status.
The nine days of Navaratri are assigned for performing certain pujas especially devoted to Devi Durga. It is said that Maa Durga bestows immense power and infinite blessings to her devotees on these auspicious days of Navaratri. In these nine-day rituals of observing fasts, reciting Durga Saptashati mantras with devotion and veneration one feels rejuvenated and a heightened sense of soul awakening. The continuous nine days worship culminates on the tenth day, the day of Vijay Dashmi. It is marked as the ultimate victory of good over evil and establishment of ethical and righteous conduct.
In the same vein and with equal fervor, Dusshera is celebrated in northern India. There is a belief that Lord Ram offered prayers and worshiped Goddess Durga, Chandi Devi to get victory in the battlefield. By trampling the arrogance of Ravana, Shri Ram formulated a world order of triumph of truth over falsehood and unlawful practices. These festivals are not only instances of the mythology but are more relevant in present day scenarios, where one becomes more tempted to unorderly behaviour for short term gratifications, which must be rectified by benedictions of Godly powers.
So, come and celebrate Navratri with zeal and dedication, having a stronghold in our religious, social, cultural and spiritual pursuits. Let us get euphoric in the bountiful blessings of Devi Durga and Lord Ram and be grateful for the divine blessings in our life.
With warm regards
Team Cyber Astro
