Navratri is an annual Hindu festival that spans over nine nights (and ten days), first in the month of Chaitra (March/April of the Gregorian calendar), and again in the month of Ashvin (September–October) . The festival is dedicated to the Divine Feminine, most often associated with Durga Ma and Goddess Parvati. Navratri celebrates Her various incarnations and victories over terrible demons. One such sacred triumph was a battle against the powerful demon Mahishasura, who could not be killed by any man or God. On the 10th day, Durga Ma was victorious. The festival is observed for different reasons and celebrated differently in various parts of the Hindu Indian cultural sphere. The nine nights of Navratri are said to be precious as there are subtle energies in the creation that are enriched at this time of the year. Devi or the Divine Mother is the energy that has given birth to the entire universe including the celestial stars far away and the subtle.

During each of the nine days of Navratri, an incarnation of “Goddess Durga” is worshipped to celebrate the day of her victory over Mahishasura, and the ultimate victory of ‘Good over Evil” . Each day is represented by a different color which symbolizes one of her distinct characteristics or traits. Many Hindus wear a different colored traditional outfit each day to reflect this. The festival ends with whats known as Dussehra, which is the celebration of good over evil.

The festival is celebrated differently in Indias various regions. For many people, it is a time of religious reflection and fasting, while for others, it is a time for dancing and feasting. Some families choose to fast during Navratri, only having milk, water, fruit, and nuts during the day, followed by a full meal after sunset. Some people only fast on the first and last day of the festival.

In summary, Navratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates the Divine Feminine, most often associated with Durga Ma and Goddess Parvati. It is observed for different reasons and celebrated differently in various parts of the Hindu Indian cultural sphere. The festival lasts for nine nights and is celebrated every year in the autumn. During each of the nine days of Navratri, an incarnation of “Goddess Durga” is worshipped to celebrate the day of her victory over Mahishasura, and the ultimate victory of ‘Good over Evil.” The festival is celebrated differently in Indias various regions, and some families choose to fast during Navratri.