Nav Ratri Festival

The Hindu festival of Nav Ratri is currently underway (from October 6 to 15) which also marks the last month of the Hindu calendar.

The last month of the Hindu year witnesses a profusion of religious activities judiciously crammed into 30 days. The bright half of the month (Sukul Paksha) starts with the Nav Ratri festival where women celebrate the nine different forms (nine energy forms) of goddess Durga.

On the tenth day, Dashera, and on the 15th, Sharad Punam – the night in which Lord Krishna played Maha Ras Leela with Gopis. The dark half or Krishna Pakcha witnesses the festivities reaching a fervent pitch on the ongoing battle for righteousness over evil. Dhanteras and Deepawali follow to finish the year on a high note.

During these festive occasions the devotees carry out spiritual cleansing by controlling their thought process and control on indriyas (senses).

Thought, word and deed must be soaked in spirituality so that one’s spiritual battery is recharged and revitalised for activities in the new year.

Devotees fast, pray and sing hymns, remain vegetarian and abstain from sexual activities.

The highlight of Nav Ratri festival is when goddess Durga vanquishes the evil demon Mahisasur who had terrorised the world, signifying the victory of good over evil.

In temples women and men dance the garbha and dandia dances. This is to perpetuate self-discipline in a man and woman’s relationship.

May I wish all Hindu devotees a very happy Nav Ratri festival.