“Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti Rupena Samsthita, Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.”
Meaning: Salutations again and again to the Goddess who resides as power in all beings.
Significance of Navratri and Its Sacred Legends
In Hinduism, the worship of Shakti (Divine Power) is of immense importance. Without her blessings, no auspicious task is considered complete. Lord Rama himself performed a ritual with 108 lotus flowers to worship Goddess Adi Shakti to defeat Ravana in battle. With her blessings, he was able to conquer the demon king. Adi Shakti’s worship holds a revered place in Hinduism. Today, we’ll explore the significance of the Navratri festival and the stories surrounding its celebration.
Every year, starting from the first day (Pratipada) to the ninth day (Navami) of the bright half of the Ashwin month, the Sharadiya Navratri festival is celebrated across India with joy and devotion. These nine days are dedicated to worshipping the nine forms of Goddess Durga, accompanied by rituals and fasting, which are held in the highest regard. Devotees observe fasts, believing that the Goddess showers boundless grace during these days, dispelling sorrow and eradicating evil.
Important Dates and Auspicious Times for Sharadiya Navratri 2024
According to the Vedic Hindu calendar, Sharadiya Navratri will begin on October 3, 2024, and conclude with Dussehra on October 12, 2024.
- Ghatasthapana Muhurat (Auspicious Time for Kalash Installation): 6:15 AM – 7:22 AM (Duration: 1 hour 6 minutes)
- Kalash Installation Abhijit Muhurat: 11:46 AM – 12:33 PM (Duration: 47 minutes)
- Virgo Ascendant Begins: October 3, 2024, at 6:15 AM
- Virgo Ascendant Ends: October 3, 2024, at 7:22 AM
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Significance of Sharadiya Navratri
The Navratri festival, observed from Pratipada to Navami during the bright half of Ashwin month, is celebrated as Sharadiya Navratri due to its occurrence in the autumn season. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a specific form of the Goddess, with each form’s blessing fulfilling distinct desires of devotees. This festival is a celebration of strength and divine energy.
According to mythology, during Sharadiya Navratri, Goddess Durga battled the demon Mahishasura for nine days, ultimately defeating him on the tenth day, celebrated as Vijayadashami. Observing rituals, worship, and fasting during this period is believed to bring prosperity and happiness.
The Mythological Stories Behind Navratri
The First Legend
The demon Mahishasura, after receiving a boon from Brahma that no god, demon, or human could kill him, began terrorizing the world. To counter his tyranny, Goddess Durga was born as a form of divine strength.
The Second Legend
Before launching his attack on Lanka, Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Bhagwati, the Goddess of Strength, for nine days at Rameshwaram to gain her blessings for victory against Ravana. Pleased with his devotion, the Goddess granted him success. On the tenth day, Lord Rama defeated and killed Ravana, claiming victory over Lanka. This day is celebrated as Vijayadashami, or Dussehra.