Navratri 2024 – Date, Puja Timings, Rituals and Significance of Shardiya Navratri

Shardiya Navratri, an eagerly anticipated festival in India, holds immense significance in the hearts of millions. This festival is observed for nine days and is dedicated to the feminine power or ‘Shakti’ symbolised by the Goddess Durga. According to the Hindu calendar, Navratri will be observed from 3 October 2024 to 12 October 2024. In this year’s festival, one and all are welcome to be part of this colourful cultural carnival and celebrate the auspicious presence of Maa Durga in the company of the dear and near. Devotees gather to pray, bow and celebrate in this special season that brings incomparable happiness to everyone.

Navratri History and Importance

The importance of Navratri, especially Shardiya Navratri, can be found in the history of Indian mythology. This festival is said to be celebrated to mark the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, which symbolises victory over evil. According to folklore, during this month, the Goddess Durga appeared in her ferocious nine avatars, symbolising the nine forms of feminine strength.

The festival brings people together as they gather for prayers, perform dances like Garba and Dandiya, and share festive meals. Navratri also marks the period of purification and spiritual development of the soul and body of the devotees, apart from being the period for worship of the gods and goddesses. All in all, Navratri is the festival of faith, togetherness, and the victory of good over evil in the world.

Navratri Puja Date and Timings

As Navratri 2024 is around the corner, below are the important dates and timings for Navratri Puja, which holds immense spiritual significance for devotees.

Date

Shardiya Navratri will begin on October 3, 2024, and culminate on October 12, the final day of the festival, with the observance of Dussehra.

Timing

The Ghatasthapana/Kalashsthapana muhurta for Shardiya Navratri 2024 is scheduled for October 3, 2024, from 06:15 a.m. to 07:22 a.m.

Shardiya Navratri 2024: Day, Dates and Tithi

Lets check out the list of Shardiya Navratri 2024.

9 Colours of Navratri and Their Significance

During Shardiya Navratri, each of the nine days is associated with a specific colour, symbolising the energies of Goddess Durga’s nine forms. These colours carry spiritual significance and guide devotees in their attire and rituals throughout the festival. Here are the nine colours of Shardiya Navratri and their symbolic meanings.

1) Day 1 – Yellow

Yellow symbolises happiness, being happy, being cheered up, or anything bright. This colour is linked with Goddess Shailaputri, the first avatar of goddess Durga, and represents purity. Yellow is attributed to a happy and joyous mood, and wearing yellow clothes on the first day marks a happy start for the festival.

2) Day 2 – Green

Green represents growth, fertility, and harmony. It is associated with the Goddess Brahmacharini, who symbolises dedication and devotion in life.

3) Day 3 – Grey

Grey symbolises the gentle and calm nature of Goddess Chandraghanta, who is worshipped on the third day. This colour represents change and calmness and symbolises that no matter how difficult the situation may be, there is always a way out.

4) Day 4 – Orange

Orange represents action, liveliness, and enthusiasm. It is associated with Goddess Kushmanda, who is believed to have created the universe with her smile. Wearing orange on the fourth day represents positivity, vitality, and enthusiasm.

5) Day 5 – White

White symbolises purity, nonviolence, and innocence. This colour is associated with the Goddess Skandamata, also considered the deity of motherhood. Wearing white on the fifth day creates a sense of purity and serenity in the heart.

6) Day 6 – Red

What else can be associated with red? Red is the colour of passion, power and, most importantly, protection. It is related to Goddess Katyayani, the powerful and fearless form of Goddess Durga. As for the sixth day, people prefer wearing red because it symbolises strength and determination to fight barriers in life.

7) Day 7 – Royal Blue

Royal blue refers to nobility, knowledge, and peace. On this day, people worship Goddess Kalaratri, the destructive avatar of Durga who enjoys destroying evil energies.

8) Day 8 – Pink

Pink represents compassion, love, and harmony. It is linked with the goddess Mahagauri, known to bring peace and calmness to the mind. Celebrating with pink on the eighth day also signifies the energy to do good and be kind, or, in other words, to spread love.

9) Day 9 – Purple

Purple represents ambition, power, and luxury. The final day of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Siddhidatri, the giver of supernatural powers (siddhis).

Rituals and Traditions

Navratri is rich in rituals and traditions, each filled with deep spiritual meaning and devotion. These practices vary slightly across regions, but the core essence remains the same: honouring the Goddess Durga and seeking her blessings for strength, prosperity, and protection. Below are some of the key rituals and traditions observed during Navratri:

1. Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana)

Ghatasthapana marks the commencement of Navratri. On the first day, a pot (Kalash) is filled with water and seeds, symbolising the germination of life. This pot is then placed in a sanctified area, and prayers are offered to invoke the blessings of the Goddess.

2. Durga Puja

Throughout Navratri, special pujas are conducted to honour Goddess Durga. These pujas involve elaborate rituals, including chanting mantras and offering flowers, incense, and various symbolic items.

3. Fasting (Vrat)

Many devotees observe fasts during Navratri, abstaining from certain foods and refraining from activities like smoking and drinking. The fast is broken with specific foods, often at prescribed times of the day.

4. Kanya Puja

On the eighth or ninth day of Navratri, young girls, considered to embody the energy of the Goddess, are worshipped. They are invited into homes, fed, and given gifts as a gesture of reverence.

5. Garba and Dandiya Raas

These traditional folk dances are an integral part of Navratri Garba celebrations. People form circles and dance rhythmically to devotional songs, expressing their devotion and joy.

6. Aarti

Aarti is a ritual involving the offering of lighted lamps before the deity. It is performed during the evening prayers and is accompanied by devotional songs.

7. Navami Havan

On the ninth day of Navratri, a Havan (sacred fire ceremony) is conducted, symbolising purification and invoking blessings for a prosperous life.

8. Visarjan

On the tenth day of Dussehra, a clay idol representing the Goddess is immersed in a water body, signifying the divine’s return to her celestial abode.

9. Reading of Durga Saptashati

Devotees often read the Durga Saptashati, a sacred scripture that narrates the glories of Goddess Durga.

How to Celebrate Navratri With Friends and Family?

Celebrating Navratri with friends and family is a wonderful opportunity to come together in devotion and joy. Decorate your home with traditional elements and festive lights to create a cheerful atmosphere. Plan collective prayers, pujas, and aartis to seek blessings from Goddess Durga. Engage in lively Garba and Dandiya Raas dances, fostering unity and celebration. Prepare Navratri special dishes as a group, turning cooking into a joyful bonding activity. Explore local community events to enhance cultural immersion. Share Navratri stories and legends to deepen understanding and enrich the festive experience.

Navratri Mantra’s

Navratri Mantras, sacred incantations passed down through generations, can invoke divine blessings during this auspicious festival. Chanting these reverent phrases is a cherished tradition, creating a spiritual resonance that deepens our connection with the divine energies of Navratri.

1. “Sarva Mangala Mangalye, Shive Sarvartha Sadhike
     Sharanye Trayambake Gauri, Narayani Namostute”

2. “Om Hreem Shreem Lakshmibhayo Namaha”

3. “Om Dum Durgayei Namaha”

As Shardiya Navratri 2024 draws to a close, may the blessings of Goddess Durga continue to illuminate our lives. This vibrant celebration has once again reinforced the bonds of family, community, and spirituality. As we bid farewell to this joyous occasion, let us carry the essence of Navratri in our hearts, spreading positivity and unity in our journey ahead. We wish you all a Happy Navratri 2024, filled with renewed hope, prosperity, and the enduring light of Goddess Durga’s grace.

Also Read:

Ways to Dress Up your Kids for Navratri
Navratri Wishes, Messages, Quotes and Statues
Facts about Navratri and Dusshera for Kids