As Shardiya Navratri approaches, devotees prepare to celebrate the nine-day festival, honoring each form of Maa Durga.
Throughout the year, Hindus celebrate four Navratris. However, large-scale celebrations happen during two Navratris – Chaitra Navratri and Shardiya Navratri. The upcoming Navratri, known as Shardiya Navratri, will span from the Pratipada to the Navami tithi of Ashwin Shukla Paksha. During this time, devotees worship Maa Durga and her nine avatars – the Navadurgas. Since the festival spans nine days, it is necessary to know the correct dates and the Goddess associated with each day. Scroll through to find out the Shardiya Navratri calendar – the dates of the auspicious nine-day celebrations.
Shardiya Navratri 2023 Date:
October 15 – Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Puja The Navratri festivities kick off with Ghatasthapana, the invocation of Goddess Shakti, and the worship of Shailputri, the first manifestation of Maa Durga.
October 16 – Brahmacharini Puja On this day, devotees pay homage to Maa Brahmacharini, the Goddess symbolizing austerity and devotion.
October 17 – Sindoor Tritiya, Chandraghanta Puja observe Sindoor Tritiya and worship Maa Chandraghanta, the embodiment of strength and grace..
October 18 – Kushmanda Puja, Vinayak Chaturthi Devotees offer prayers to Maa Kushmanda, the creator of the universe, and celebrate Vinayak Chaturthi.
October 19 – Skandamata Puja The day is dedicated to Maa Skandamata, the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya).
October 20 – Katyayani Puja Maa Katyayani, a fierce and courageous form of Durga, is worshipped with deep devotion.
October 21 – Saraswati Puja, Kalratri Puja Saraswati Puja honors the Goddess of knowledge, while Kalratri Puja is dedicated to Maa Kalratri, the symbol of fearlessness.
October 22 – Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Puja Durga Ashtami are celebrated with reverence, including the worship of Maa Mahagauri. During this time, devotees perform Sandhi Puja, a significant ritual.
October 23 – Maha Navami On the penultimate day of Navratri, Maha Navami, devotees mark it with special prayers and devotion.
After nine days, Navratri ends with Durga Visarjan and Dussehra, symbolizing Maa Durga’s farewell and victory over evil forces.
October 24 – Durga Visarjan and Vijayadashami On this day, devotees break their nine-day fast with Navratri Parana. Additionally, they immerse the idols of Goddess Durga in water bodies and celebrate the victory of Vijayadashami or Dussehra.
Significance of Navratri:
Shardiya Navratri holds immense significance in Hindu culture and traditions. It is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for devotees. Here are some key aspects of its significance:
- Victory: Shardiya Navratri culminates with the celebration of Vijayadashami, which marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and righteousness over unrighteousness.
- Spiritual Cleansing: Many people observe fasts and undertake spiritual practices during Navratri to cleanse their minds and bodies.
- Cultural Celebrations: Navratri blends religious devotion with cultural vibrance, featuring Garba and Dandiya Raas, where people unite in dance and traditional attire.
- Family Bonding: Navratri brings families and communities together. People gather for prayers, participate in cultural events, and exchange festive greetings, strengthening the bonds of kinship and friendship.
- Offering Devotion: Devotees express devotion during Navratri by offering prayers, performing aarti, and setting up pandals to honor Maa Durga.
