Chaitra Navratri (Nav means Nine and Ratri signifies Night), encompassing the nine-day festivities and celebrations. It is one of the most famous festivals all across the nation. This festival is celebrated in honor of Goddess Durga and her nine forms of avatars. Devi Durga is the epitome of Strength and Shakti. The devotees celebrate this festival with great devotion and enthusiasm. Some people also observe fasts every nine days and relish the Saatwik Bhojan.
The Chaitra Navratri falls during the Chaitra month and as per the English calendar, it’s observed in March or the beginning of April. Most customs, rituals, and traditions are similar to those in the Shardiya Navratri, usually in October.
When is Chaitra Navratri 2024?
This year, in 2024, the Chaitra Navratri will be observed on Tuesday, 9th April 2024, and the Navami will be celebrated on Wednesday, 17th April 2024. Ashtami will be celebrated on Tuesday, 16th April 2024. The Mahagauri avatar of Devi Durga is worshipped on Ashtami, and the Navami Tithi, the Siddhidatri form of Maa Durga, is worshipped.
Nine Forms or Avatars of Devi Durga
The nine forms or avatars of Maa Durga are – First Day – Devi Shailputri; Second Day – Devi Brahmacharini; Third Day – Devi Chandraghanta; Fourth Day – Devi Kushmanda; Fifth Day – Devi Skandamata; Sixth Day – Devi Katyayani, Seventh Day – Devi Kalratri, Eighth Day – Devi Mahagauri, and on the Ninth Day – Devi Siddhidatri is worshipped.
Celebrations, Rituals and Customs
The first day of Chaitra Navratri starts with the Kalash Sthapana. According to the best astrologer in Delhi, the auspicious period should be considered for this sacred ritual. During the nine days, the devotees have Saatwik bhajan and prepare dishes like “Makhane Kee Kheer,” “Kuttu Ki Poori,” “Sabudana Khichdi,” etc. People also perform “Kanjak Pujan” on Ashtami. The devotees also celebrate the Ram Navami and seek the blessings of Lord Rama by visiting temples.
The whole environment is filled with the tunes of Maa Durga Bhajans and folk songs. These nine days are also considered auspicious for meditation.
Many other names, like Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh, Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, and Navreh in Kashmir, are known as Chaitra Navratri. We Wish “Shubh Chaitra Navratri” to Everyone! May Devi Durga shower her choicest blessings on all of us to invite prosperity, peace, and perfection!
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