Navratri 2023: Know the 4 basics of worshipping Maa Durga during the nine days of festival

Navratri is a Hindu festival that spans nine nights and is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga. The word "Navratri" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Nav" means nine, and "Ratri" means night. This festival typically occurs in the autumn, during the lunar month of Ashwin (usually September or October) and is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India.

During Navratri, devotees honor different forms of the goddess Durga, who represents divine feminine energy and the triumph of good over evil. Each day of Navratri is associated with a different aspect of the goddess and is marked by specific rituals and customs.

Navratri 2023: 4 basics of how to worship Goddess Durga

According to Vedic Astrology Teacher and counselor Bani Singh Chadha, there are 4 basics of how to worship Goddess Durga.

1. This Navrati, you can start by lighting a ghee diya. You can add some yellow sarso and kumkum and keep it lit for nine days or you can light a diya every day in the morning and in the evening.

2. You must offer her five different types of fruits and fruits that have seeds like a pomegranate or the guava.

3. You also should offer five different types of dry fruits, pancham, Mila, like dates and apricots, almonds, cashew nuts and raisins

4. For your prayers, you can read or listen to the Laghu Saptashati as this is far easier to do than Durga saptashati and it has lesser rules and regulations. You can also listen to or chant the Durga Durga Ashtakam or Vindeshwari Chalisa.

Some other common practices during Navratri 2023 include:

Fasting: Many people observe fasts during Navratri, abstaining from certain foods, and consuming only vegetarian meals. Some may even opt for more strict fasts, such as eating only fruits or drinking water.

Garba and Dandiya Raas: These are traditional dance forms that are popular during Navratri. People gather in large groups, dressed in traditional attire, and dance to the beat of folk music using sticks (Dandiya) or hand movements (Garba).

Prayers and Pujas: Devotees visit temples and conduct special prayers and pujas dedicated to the goddess Durga. These ceremonies often involve the recitation of religious hymns and mantras.

Decoration: Many households and public spaces are adorned with colorful decorations, including colorful rangoli (designs made with colored powders), and traditional lamps.

Fasting and Feasting: The fasting period during Navratri is often followed by feasting, with a variety of vegetarian dishes and sweets being prepared and shared among family and friends.

Cultural Programs: Many communities organize cultural events, music performances, and dramas to celebrate Navratri.

Also watch: Navratri 2023: Why Saraswati puja holds special significance during the 9-day long festival