Navratri 2024: Know All About Navratri Festival

Navratri is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, filled with joy, devotion, and vibrant colors. The word "Navratri" comes from two Sanskrit words: "Nav," meaning nine, and "Ratri," meaning night. So, Navratri means "nine nights," during which people worship the goddess Durga and her nine forms. Each night is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, and the festival is marked by fasting, dancing, singing, and praying. It's a time when families come together to celebrate and offer their devotion to the goddess.

When is Navratri 2024?

If you're wondering when is Navratri in 2024, it will begin on October 2nd, 2024, and will end on October 10th, 2024. Navratri usually falls in the month of September or October, depending on the lunar calendar. Every year, the dates may change slightly, but it always lasts for nine days.

When Does Navratri Begin?

Now that you know when is Navratri in 2024, you might also wonder when does Navratri begin each year. The festival usually starts on the first day of the bright half of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin. This is why the dates change each year. In 2024, Navratri begins on October 2nd, marking the start of nine days of celebration.

How Many Navratri Are There in a Year?

Did you know that there are four Navratris in a year? Yes, you read that right! However, only two of them are widely celebrated. The most popular ones are Sharad Navratri in the autumn, which is the one we are talking about, and Chaitra Navratri in the spring. The other two, Magha Navratri and Ashadha Navratri, are lesser-known and are usually observed by a smaller number of devotees.

The Significance of Navratri

Navratri is not just a festival; it's a time for spiritual reflection and renewal. Each of the nine days is dedicated to a different form of the goddess Durga, who is believed to have fought and defeated the demon Mahishasura during this period. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is a reminder of the strength and power of women.

What Can We Eat in Navratri Fast?

Fasting is an essential part of Navratri, and many people choose to abstain from regular food during the nine days. But don’t worry, fasting during Navratri doesn't mean you can't eat anything! In fact, there are special foods that you can enjoy. So, what can we eat in Navratri fast? Here are some popular choices:

1. Fruits: You can eat a variety of fresh fruits like bananas, apples, and pomegranates.

2. Sabudana (Tapioca): Sabudana khichdi or sabudana vada are delicious and filling options.

3. Kuttu (Buckwheat) Flour: This flour is used to make puris or rotis during the fast.

4. Singhara (Water Chestnut) Flour: Like kuttu, this flour is used to make various dishes.

5. Potatoes: Potatoes are often used in Navratri recipes, such as aloo sabzi or vrat ke aloo.

6. Dairy Products: Milk, yogurt, and paneer are all allowed during the fast.

7. Dry Fruits and Nuts: Almonds, cashews, and raisins can be consumed.

8. Honey: As a natural sweetener, honey can be added to your dishes.

9. Rock Salt (Sendha Namak): Regular salt is avoided, and rock salt is used instead.

These foods are not only tasty but also help you maintain your energy levels throughout the fasting period. Just remember, the purpose of fasting is not just to avoid certain foods but to cleanse the body and mind, so eat mindfully and stay hydrated.

When to Break Navratri Fast?

The question of when to break Navratri fast is significant because it marks the end of your fasting period and the beginning of the celebrations. The fast is usually broken on the eighth or ninth day of Navratri, depending on the customs you follow. This day is known as Ashtami or Navami. After performing a special prayer, known as Kanya Puja, where young girls are worshipped as forms of the goddess, the fast is broken. A delicious meal, often including the foods mentioned earlier, is prepared, and everyone gathers to eat together.

When Will Navratri Start in 2024?

As we mentioned earlier, when will Navratri start in 2024? The answer is October 2nd. But why is this date important? It's the day when families across India start their preparations. Homes are cleaned and decorated, altars are set up with images or idols of goddess Durga, and prayers begin. Each day of Navratri holds a special significance, and devotees eagerly wait for the festival to begin so they can immerse themselves in the rituals and celebrations.

The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga

Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of goddess Durga. Let's take a look at these nine forms:

Day 1 - Shailaputri: The first form of Durga, representing nature and purity.

Day 2 - Brahmacharini: The goddess of penance and devotion.

Day 3 - Chandraghanta: The goddess who represents bravery and strength.

Day 4 - Kushmanda: The creator of the universe.

Day 5 - Skandamata: The goddess of motherhood and nurturing.

Day 6 - Katyayani: The goddess of courage and fearlessness.

Day 7 - Kalaratri: The goddess who protects from evil.

Day 8 - Mahagauri: The symbol of peace and intelligence.

Day 9 - Siddhidatri: The goddess who grants wisdom and success.

Each form has its own story and significance, and devotees worship them with great devotion during Navratri.

The Dance and Music of Navratri

One of the most exciting parts of Navratri is the dance and music. In many parts of India, especially in Gujarat, people participate in Garba and Dandiya. These are traditional dances performed in groups, where everyone dances in a circle around an idol or image of the goddess. The music is lively, and the dancers wear colorful traditional clothes. It's a time of great fun and enjoyment, and even children love to join in the dancing.

Navratri Celebrations Across India

Navratri is celebrated differently in various parts of India. In West Bengal, it's known as Durga Puja, where huge idols of goddess Durga are worshipped and then immersed in water on the last day. In Gujarat, it's all about Garba and Dandiya. In Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, people display dolls called Bommai Golu and invite friends and family to view them. Each region has its own unique way of celebrating, but the devotion to goddess Durga remains the same.

The Last Day of Navratri: Vijayadashami

The last day of Navratri is known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. It's a day that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, this is the day when Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana. In some places, large effigies of Ravana are burned to celebrate this victory. It's a day of joy, and people exchange sweets and gifts with each other.

Navratri for Kids: What Can You Do?

Navratri is a great time for kids to learn about their culture and traditions. Here are some fun activities you can do during Navratri:

1. Learn the Stories: Read or listen to the stories of goddess Durga and her nine forms. You can also learn about Lord Rama and the story of Dussehra.

2. Make Your Own Decorations: Get creative and make your own decorations for Navratri. You can create paper garlands, draw pictures of the goddess, or even make your own idol.

3. Join the Dance: If there's a Garba or Dandiya event in your area, join in the dancing! It's a lot of fun, and you can even dress up in traditional clothes.

4. Help with the Pooja: Assist your family in preparing for the Navratri prayers. You can help set up the altar, arrange flowers, or light the lamps.

5. Fasting with Family: If you're old enough, you can try fasting with your family. Remember, fasting isn't just about not eating; it's about being mindful and spending time in prayer.

Conclusion: Why Navratri is Special

Navratri is more than just a festival; it's a time of reflection, devotion, and joy. It's a time when families come together, when people from all walks of life join in the celebrations, and when the whole country is filled with the spirit of devotion to goddess Durga. So, when is Navratri in 2024? Mark your calendars for October 2nd and get ready to celebrate one of the most beautiful and vibrant festivals in India.

Remember, whether you're fasting, dancing, or just enjoying the stories and traditions, Navratri is a time to connect with your roots and enjoy the blessings of goddess Durga. So, when will Navratri start? It's just around the corner, and it's time to start getting ready!

We hope you liked the above article. Please do not forget to share this blog with your friends and community members to spread awareness of "When is Navratri".

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