Types of Navratri

“Navratri” is one of the most auspicious festivals celebrated across India. But do you know there are in all 4 Navratris celebrated every year in India worshipping the Goddesses?

 

First is Chaitra Navratri, also known as Vasanta Navratri. It starts on Pratipada Tithi of Shukla Paksha (1 st day of brighter half) of the Chaitra month. It is also the beginning of the Hindu New Year. Vasanta Navratri marks the seasonal change from spring to summer. Everyone worships 9 avatars of Goddess Durga to get her blessings. Devotees observe nine days strict fasting period to allow our body to adjust to the changing climate and prevent indigestion. It is mostly celebrated in northern India and western India. The nine-day festival which is also known as Rama Navratri ends on Rama Navami, Lord Ram’s birthday.

 

There are 2 other Navratris, Ashad and Magha which are called Gupt Navratri (unknown). These two Navratris have great importance for Sadhaks (Devotees) who practice Tantra Sadhana. Sadhaks attempt to gain power by worshiping the 10 Mahavidyas (Wisdom Goddesses) associated with the Tantra exercise.

Ashad Navratri, also known as Gayatri or Shakambhari Navratri, is celebrated in the Shukla Paksha of Ashad month (during June-July). It is believed that this worship is for good monsoon rains. Magh Navratri is celebrated during Pratipada Tithi of Shukla Paksha of Magh month (January-February).

 

Fourth Navratri is Sharad Navratri. This is celebrated during the lunar month of Ashvin, it marks the beginning of winters (September-October). It is mostly celebrated in Eastern India. This Navratri is dedicated to nine forms of Maa Shakti and every day one goddess is worshiped namely, Shailputri, Brahmacharni, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri who together slayed the demon Mahishasura. In Southern India Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati are worshiped during this festival.