#Durga Ashtami rituals

[manasastuff-blog]

Happy Durga Ashtami#trending#viral#durgaashtami

Durga Ashtami's importance is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and is one of the most significant days during Navratri celebrations. This sacred day is devoted to Goddess Durga, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. In this, we explore why Durga Ashtami is so important, the spiritual significance behind it, and the traditional rituals performed during the festival. From ancient Hindu scriptures to modern-day practices, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this powerful day. Whether you're familiar with the festival or curious about its importance, this will provide deep insights into Durga Ashtami’s history, rituals, and cultural significance. Watch now to understand how this festival brings communities together and how its teachings inspire us all.

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#DurgaAshtami #HinduFestivals #Navratri2024 #SpiritualImportance #GoddessDurga #FestivalTraditions #HinduCulture #AshtamiRituals #VictoryOfGoodOverEvil #CulturalCelebrations

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Navratri 2024, Day 8: Worship Maa Mahagauri- Know Shubh Muhurat, Mantras And More | Culture News

Maha Navratri, also referred to as Shardiya Navratri, is a vibrant Hindu festival that spans nine nights and ten days. This year, this auspicious occasion will be joyously celebrated throughout India from October 3 to October 12. During this period, devotees in India and around the world worship the nine manifestations of Maa Durga, collectively known as Navdurga, which includes Maa Siddhidatri,…

[gguk-n]

Hi could please write one where the reader is bengali and celebrates Durga Puja with Lando in india ( ollie or kimi works too but I'm not sure if you write for them)?

I did a ‘spin the wheel’ and got Ollie.

Puja Vibes

Ollie was as white as white gets and his girlfriend was the embodiment of the Bengali culture prancing around. She had helped Oliver expand his horizon; taught him new experiences and delicious food. She will argue, that there’s no dessert like Bengali dessert.

So, when it was time for Y/N to return home for Durga Puja, Ollie would be joining her too since he had no races or prior commitments.

They hadn’t dated for long but Ollie had showered her with gifts on Christmas and taught her all his family traditions. Y/N just wanted to do the same for him.

At the airport, they landed together with Ollie in tow who was enamoured by the hustle and bustle of the city. He saw cows crossing the road like it was another Tuesday and no one batted an eye. Y/N pointed out all the building explaining the significance and the reason behind their construction during the colonial era on the way to her home.

At home, preparations for Durga Puja were in full swing. Y/N’s uncle and aunt had decorated their house ornately. Oliver greeted everyone.

The festivities would start the next day. Everyone was up bright and early for the invocation (bodhon) Oliver was mesmerised by the shining lights and the bright colours and the beautiful way Goddess Durga was dressed.

The main event was Maha Ashtami which Y/N’s father had great pleasure in explaining to Oliver. Oliver was like a kid in a candy store; eyes wide open and mesmerised by the events unfolding in front of him.

You would find the poor boy following Y/N around like a lost puppy. It was adorable watching him hold onto her saree palo as she walked in front of him. “Lemme hold your hand” Ollie whined. “Everyone is here for the festival. What will the elder’s think?” Y/N reasoned. In Indian culture, blatant show of affection was frowned upon especially in the older generations, the younger ones couldn’t care less. That’s why Ollie was walking around holding her palo.

They were stood next to each other while Y/N’s mother made the preparations for Maha Ashtami. “Your dress looks so beautiful. Red truly is your colour” Ollie said. “Thank you babe” she said. “How did you do this?” He asked playing with the folds. “My mum helped. I’m still pretty bad at tying a saree” she said. “Is that what it’s called? A saree” he said enunciating each word. “Yup, it’s an Indian traditional wear but everyone wraps the cloth around them differently, depending on the region of the country” she explained. His mouth formed an O in understanding.

They finished up the celebration with all the rituals being done and Oliver asking way too many questions each step of the way.

On the last day after Vijaya Dashami, after the immersion in the water everyone returned back home, exhausted by the events of the past days when Y/N’s cousin showed her a video; actually a few.

One video, had Ollie following her around like a lost puppy. The other one was of him holding her palo so as to not get lost. And the last one was straight out of a Shah Rukh Khan movie where Ollie’s watch had gotten stuck in her palo and he tried to free himself while actively trying to follow her and not let her know that he might fray her outfit. Eventually, he did free himself but his eyes never left her as he walked behind her.

She showed the video to Ollie and the Shah Rukh Khan scene from Om Shanti Om. Ollie was seen laughing, “didn’t know I would be getting my Bollywood moment this year during Puja” she said. “I’m happy I could be of service, m’lady” he said tipping his imaginary hat. “I would still have loved if it was Shah Rukh Khan” she teased. “Wow! I can’t believe this.” He acted hurt with his hand on his chest. “You are unbelievable.” She muttered pressing her lips on his cheeks. “Don’t try to bribe me with kisses” he huffed. “I’m not. I love you my cute little bear” she cooed. “I’m not cute” he huffed again. “Sure, my rasgulla” she laughed pinching his cheeks. “I like that dessert. Can I have some more?” He replied lost in thought. “I’m sure my mother will find great pleasure in feeding you” she said laughing. “Let’s go” she said pulling him along. “I love you Y/N.” Ollie called out while being dragged along. “I love you too” she replied turning to look at him.

Y/N’s family cooed at them, young love

Hope you liked it! I tried my best

[zeherili-ankhein]

Ok one thing I see every year during this time and I'm again seeing nowadays, that is shaming bangali people for eating non-veg during Navaratri

First of all, Navaratri and Durga Pujo are VERY different. This is basic atp I mean.. but still...

And it's not only about Bangalis, Assamese people, some Odisha people and even some parts of North Eastern people I believe (forgive me if I'm wrong) also have the concept of non veg in their diet even during Puja, Devi Puja to be specific.

And second thing, Bengal's Shakta traditions and rituals are A LOT different.

Like some families have traditions of offering Jora Ilish to Maa on Ashtami, with the believe that's her favourite fish. While some families (like mine) go complete veg on that perticular day.

And most families usually eat mutton on Nabami. That's like a must in most households. Some places even had the ritual of Patha Bali during Sandhi Pujo on Ashtami or on Nabami. That is mostly changed with pumkins or ash grounds nowadays though.

Meat in some places is offered as Bhog to Maa. And on Dashami, some places again offer her fishes as that's the day she leaves us for another whole year.

Also you'd be further shocked to know it's not only during Durga Pujo that we have the tradition of non veg.

Some families just like mine, have the tradition of Ranna Pujo, which is celebrated the day before Vishwakarma Pujo. This Puja is for Maa Manasa, and during this, Maa is offered various dishes made of fishes including Ilish or Rui. Some even offer prawns as Bhog.

And guess what? A lot of places still have Bali Pratha during various Kali Pujos that happens all around the year. I've seen myself.

Most Shaktipeeth, Including Kamakhya and Kalighat also have the same Bali Pratha. I just said those two places because I've seen them myself.

(I do agree it's not really good to kill animals but I'm just saying what is true)

Some Kali Pujo, even have rituals that includes alcohol, yes read right even alcohol as an offering to Maa. Believe me or not, this is 100% true.

So stop saying random stuff like why we are consuming non veg or how we are not following the rules, because rules are different in every part of India.

Yup! That's all. Now be kind and understanding and let us all enjoy our own festivals hmm?

Also to piss off people who'll still say dumb stuff, I ate momos and biriyani today cry about it

[jeahreading]

-Maha Gauri

Durga Ashtami is one of the most auspicious and remarkable days of this long Durga Festival.In India fasting is undertaken by many people on this holy occasion. It is believed that Goddess Kali appeared on this day from the forehead of Mother Durga and annihilated Chanda, Munda, and Rakthabija (the demons who were associates of Mahishasura). The 64 Yoginis and Ashta Nayikas (the eight consorts of Goddess Durga) are worshiped during the Durga Puja rituals on Mahashtami. The Ashta Nayikas, also known as Eight Shaktis, are interpreted differently in different regions of India. But ultimately, all the eight goddesses are incarnations of Shakti. They are the same powerful Divine Feminine, representing different energies.  This brings a old tradition on Durga Ashtami originated in North India, to honor the kanjaks( little girls)in the home. A group of young, unmarried girls  are invited into the home to honor them. The tradition is based on the belief that each of these young girlsrepresents the shakti (energy) of Durga on Earth. The group of girls are welcomed by washing their feet, welcoming them into the home, and the girls are fed with sweets and foods and honored with small gifts. On this day the devotees worship and adore the Goddess Maha Gauri.The goddess of beauty and women, clean and bright like a ray of light. Mahagauri is the eighth manifestation of goddess Durga and amongst the Navadurgas. According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Mahagauri has the power to fulfill all the desires of her devotees. The one who worships the goddess gets relief from all the sufferings in life.  Mahagauri has four arms. Her right arm is in the pose of allaying fear and right lower hand holds a trident in it. She holds a tambourine in her left upper arm and the lower one is in the form of a blessing.

credit

@zeherili-ankhein @no-idea-where-i-am-lost @randomx123

don't kill me pt - 2?? No seriously though, this isn't that good I was just trying to make all the mood boards quickly

[monkvyasaa]

Chaitra Navratri 2023: Rituals,Yoga, Days And Pujas To Perform

Navratri is a significant Hindu festival that is celebrated for nine nights on the Indian subcontinent during autumn. Traditionally, there are four seasonal Navratris, and the Sharada or Shardiya Navratri is celebrated after the monsoon season in remembrance of the Divine Feminine Devi. During this time, Hindus perform the customs and rites of Ghatasthapana and Sandhi Puja, which are considered to be the two most frequently observed muhurtas. Chaitra Navratri 2023 is particularly significant as it falls during the Shardiya Navratri, and Hindus observe the customs and rituals of Ghatasthapana and Sandhi Puja during this time.

The Navratri puja, also known as Vasanta Navratri, is a celebration that honors the sacred feminine Devi or Durga. Devotees worship and honor Divine Durga in her nine forms during this festival. The word "Vasanta" is derived from the Sanskrit language and signifies spring, which is when this Navratri occurs. It takes place during the Chaitra lunar month, which typically falls between March and April after the winter season. In some regions, this festival is celebrated after the spring season, while in others, it is observed after the harvest season. It is also significant as it marks the first day of the Hindu calendar, making it the Hindu New Year according to the Vikram Samvat calendar.

Chaitra Navratri 2023: Navratri days & pujas to perform

Here are the dates and details for Chaitra Navratri 2023:

Wednesday, 22 March 2023 (Pratipada): Maa Shailputri Puja and Ghatasthapana

Thursday, 23 March 2023 (Dvitiya): Maa Brahmacharini Puja

Friday, 24 March 2023 (Tritiya):Maa Chandraghanta Puja

Saturday, 25 March 2023 (Chaturthi): Maa Kushmanda Puja

Sunday, 26 March 2023 (Panchami): Maa Skandamata Puja

Monday, 27 March 2023 (Shashti): Maa Katyayani Puja

Tuesday, 28 March 2023 (Saptami): Maa Kalaratri Puja

Wednesday, 29 March 2023 (Ashtami): Maa Mahagauri Puja

Thursday, 30 March 2023 (Navami): Maa Siddhidatri Puja and Ram Navami

Friday, 31 March 2023 (Dashami): Navratri Parana

Chaitra Navratri is a festival where people worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga. They also try to find inner peace through meditation and seek happiness. During this festival, people also perform a ritual called Ghatasthapana or Kalash Sthapana. This involves setting up a sacred vessel for prayer. The Ghatasthapana Muhurta for Chaitra Navratri 2023 is from 06:23 AM to 07:32 AM.

Significance of Chaitra Navratri 

Chaitra Navratri is an auspicious Hindu festival that commemorates the ultimate feminine form of the Hindu deity, Goddess Durga. She is regarded as Shakti, the most powerful feminine energy in the universe, and is worshiped with great devotion during this nine-day festival. 

Navratri Puja is believed to bring immense wealth and fortune to those who seek the blessings of Goddess Durga. However, there are certain rules that the devotees must follow strictly, which include fasting without consuming grains, maintaining cleanliness, performing aarti and performing Ghatasthapana.

[yoursyashi]

Role of Women in Indian Rituals

India is a country of glorious cultures and varied beliefs, but it contains one of the richest fabrics of rituals, with each running into thousands of years. And within these rituals has been an extremely important role of women who have played a crucial role in the performance, preservation, and transmission of these traditions over generations. For decades, they have not only been the participants in these rituals but often the wheels and steering wheels in these ceremonies. It carries forward cultural values to promote their continuation and ensures religious practice thrives. With evolving society, the role of women in rituals reflects tradition and transformation, and also triumph.

In Indian traditional society, women have been considered custodians of cultural practices in the family. It is the women mostly who initiate and execute rituals to mark major life cycles such as births, marriages, festivals, and even rites for mourning. For instance, while celebrating festivals such as Diwali, Holi, or Durga Puja, women are seen actively taking part in decorating the house, preparing puja offerings, and making necessary arrangements for the family get-together. Through their strict observance of these practices, they are able to teach their children about cultural values and nurture a feeling of belonging and pride in the culture, thus greatly contributing to the perpetuation of Indian cultural identity.

Married women of the Hindu religious group also have a ritual like Karva Chauth for husbands to ensure long lives. The discussions about fasting, prayers, and even any other type of observance included in this ritual add value to the devotion of wives within the Indian cultural context. Such rituals not only show the epitomes of devotion but also seriousness about women as a character of maintaining family ties and social bonding.

Some special religious functions or roles in India bring out the religious powers of women. In South Indian homes, for instance, the daily puja is usually done by women-they also pray for their well-being. In Hindu ceremonies, such as Navratri, women play a very important role because they are embracing the feminine power in the figure of Durga, the goddess. They make altars, lead prayers and dances and rituals to the goddess, as well as to their best understanding, which would express a profound acknowledgment of the feminine divine.

Furthermore, most women in several Indian societies are held accountable for keeping fasts and praying for the welfare of their family members, as identified in practices such as Ahoi Ashtami and Vat Savitri. These practices emphasize not only the spiritual power of women but also reflect the traditional belief that the prayers of women are particularly effective to ensure well-being among their loved ones.

In the last few decades, the participation of women in Indian rituals has almost changed; it reflects a broader change in society. Women are claiming more equal space in rituals where, only a few years ago, men were largely predominant. For example, in certain parts of India, women have begun to participate in the last rites of their parents-an act which was always compulsorily carried out by a male member of the family. This change reflects an increased concern for women's rights to respect their parents and divert themselves completely towards all activities concerning family and religious life.

Besides, women have begun to officiate rituals as priests, especially in urban cities. Female pandits, or priestesses, now are officiating ceremonies such as marriage, housewarming, and festivals. These are a strong trend towards gender parity in rituals, dismantling beliefs for years and redefining the concepts of participating and leading rituals.

Rituals in India have also become means for women's empowerment. These women find social prominence and prestige as they actively participate in the rituals, especially in the rural areas where community pujas are considered key events. The women-led community pujas, such as women's Ganesha Chaturthi pujas in Maharashtra, are the examples of increasing leadership roles that women are assuming. The religious and social bonding times for women help them increase their networks, debate their problems, and exercise influence.

In rituals, women often represent cycles of life and the different roles the change in life's responsibilities symbolize. For example, in Hindu wedding rituals, the bride represents Lakshmi-the goddess of wealth, meaning prosperity entered the new family. The other example is that of Godh Bharai or baby shower, where the women of the community bless the expectant mother, underlining her role as one who gives life and connect[s] her to the shared wisdom of women before her.

On the other hand, the manifest image of the mythological goddess Shakti in many rituals explains why feminine power has been able to stay strong and return. For instance, the nine days of Navratri are dedicated to the different forms of the goddess with special powers and qualities. This goddess worship empowered women to believe they, like the goddess, carry the same divine strength, resilience, and nurturing powers.

More women taking leading roles in Indian rituals have been a defining source of redefining what it means to be part of the country's religious and spiritual traditions. The merging of tradition with new-found agency enables women to obtain cultural continuities without the absolute surrender of rights and identities. Training female priests, encouraging women's participation in last rites within communities, or honoring family leadership by women in rituals are among them.

Thus, the role of women in Indian rituals becomes one of reverence and resilience amidst the fragile balance of tradition and progress. From the carriers of ancient customs to the agents of change, the changing role of women in Indian rituals graphically reflects the rootedness and the adaptability of the Indian culture itself. On this journey, they remain strong symbols of continuity, guardians of cultural heritage, and drivers of spiritual evolution.

[dkscore]

*Durga Ashtami 2024* "Welcome to our special on Durga Ashtami, one of the most powerful days of Navaratri. In this video, we'll explore the *astrological significance* of Durga Ashtami. Known for its intense energy, this day is ruled by Goddess Durga, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Astrologically, worshipping Durga on Ashtami can help pacify malefic influences in your birth chart, particularly of Rahu and Mars. We'll walk you through *rituals to perform* on this auspicious day. From *Kanya Pujan* to offering red flowers, chanting Durga mantras, and fasting—these rituals amplify divine protection, courage, and spiritual growth. What makes Durga Ashtami extra special this year? In 2024, it aligns with a powerful planetary conjunction, enhancing the benefits of devotion. Don't miss out on the **benefits of worship**, like removing obstacles, gaining confidence, and finding success in personal and professional life. Stay tuned to know how you can make the most of Durga Ashtami this year!"

Read more >>

[bharatpractice]

Kanya Puja 2024

Kanya Puja 2024

Kanya Puja is an important ritual performed during the Navratri festival in Hinduism on the eighth and ninth days (Ashtami and Navami). The ceremony consists of worshipping girls, generally aged 2 – 10 years, who are considered the incarnations of the Goddess Durga. The custom demonstrates respect towards all the feminine energies and women's place in a community.

Importance:

Kanya Puja symbolizes innocence and the embodiment of the goddess through little girls. It is asserted that completion of this ceremony ensures that the devotees are bestowed with gifts of wealth, and joy as well as the alleviation of all hindrances in the course of their lives.

[vedantbhoomidigital]

CG News: CM Vishnudev Sai will celebrate Ashtami in his new bungalow, organize Kanya Bhoj

Raipur. CG News: Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai will worship Goddess Durga with full rituals along with his family today in his new CM House. During this time, on the occasion of Durga Ashtami, a feast will be organized for the new bride. CG News: Construction of new CM House, Naya Raipur, entire Sector 24 has been completed. CM's bungalow with all facilities has been built on 8 acres. Have…

[pnp-pujanpujari]

Navratri 2024: Best Fasting Practices – What we can eat and When to Break the Navratri Fast

Navratri, the festival celebrating the divine feminine, is a time for devotion, prayer, and observance of traditional fasting practices. Fasting during Navratri not only has spiritual significance but also purifies the body and mind. Understanding what you can eat and when to break your fast can make the experience more meaningful and manageable. In this guide, we will cover the best fasting practices, foods to consume during Navratri, and the appropriate time to break the fast.

What to Eat During Navratri Fast

Navratri fasting involves avoiding certain food groups while embracing specific ingredients that are deemed pure and sattvic. Here's a detailed look at the best fasting practices and what to eat during this auspicious period:

Fruits and Dairy Products: Fruits are a staple for those fasting during Navratri. You can consume a wide variety of fresh fruits, as they provide essential nutrients and keep you energized. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and paneer are also allowed. Lassi or buttermilk can be refreshing options.

Non-Grain Flour: During Navratri, traditional grains like wheat are avoided, and flours such as buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta), water chestnut flour (singhara atta), and amaranth flour (rajgira atta) are commonly used. These flours are used to make rotis, puris, and even pancakes that are suitable for fasting.

Sattvic Vegetables: Root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, and colocasia (arbi) are considered permissible during the fast. You can use these ingredients to make delicious dishes like aloo sabzi, sabudana khichdi, or roasted sweet potatoes. Avoid vegetables like onions and garlic as they are considered tamasic.

Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls): Sabudana is a popular ingredient for Navratri fasting. Sabudana khichdi, made with tapioca pearls, peanuts, and spices like cumin, is not only delicious but also provides ample energy. Sabudana vada is another popular dish.

Nuts and Seeds: Dry fruits such as almonds, cashews, raisins, and walnuts are allowed during Navratri fast. You can eat them as snacks or use them in various dishes. Peanuts are also commonly used and add a great crunch to different recipes.

Spices and Rock Salt: Common spices like turmeric, red chili powder, and regular salt are restricted during Navratri. Instead, you can use cumin, black pepper, green chilies, and rock salt (sendha namak), which are permissible and add flavor to your dishes.

Beverages: Hydration is essential during fasting. Apart from water, you can also drink herbal teas, lemon water, and milk-based drinks to stay hydrated and energized. Coconut water is another refreshing drink to consider.

When to Break the Navratri Fast

Navratri fasts can be observed for a day, a few days, or throughout the nine-day period. The timing of breaking the fast depends on personal preference and the customs followed in one's family or community. Typically, people break their fast on the eighth or ninth day, also known as Ashtami or Navami.

Breaking the Fast:

Kanya Puja Ritual: Many devotees break their fast on Ashtami by performing the Kanya Puja ritual, where nine young girls representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. They are served a traditional meal that includes halwa, puri, and chana. After this ritual, the devotees also consume the meal and conclude their fast.

Evening Aarti: Some people prefer to break their fast after the evening aarti, following the final prayers for the day. This time is considered auspicious, and the devotees often break their fast with sattvic food, including fruits, milk, and light dishes.

Tips for a Healthy Navratri Fast

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or herbal tea throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Avoid Fried Foods: While puris and vadas are popular, it’s advisable to avoid excessive fried foods, especially if you are fasting for the entire nine days, to maintain energy levels.

Eat Balanced Meals: Incorporate a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to ensure that your body gets all the necessary nutrients.

If you are looking for the right puja items, astrology services, or online pandit booking during Navratri, pujanpujari.com is here to assist you. Our website offers a wide range of customized puja packages to make your Navratri celebrations more meaningful and convenient. Whether you need guidance on a thematic Golu display or require expert astrology services, we provide everything you need for a spiritually enriching experience. Explore our collection of puja items and make your Navratri festivities truly special with PujaNPujari.

[lyricsolution-com]

Kanya Puja Maha Ashtami 2024: Shubh Muhurat, Significance, And Complete Rituals Of Kanjak Puja | Culture News

Kanya Puja, also known as Kanjak Puja, is a significant and cherished ritual during the auspicious festival of Navratri. This beautiful tradition involves worshipping young girls as a form of the goddess Durga. Kanya Puja falls on Maha Ashtami, the eighth day of Navratri, and holds immense importance in the Hindu culture. In this article, we will explore the date, Shubh Muhurat, significance, and…

[subir-astrologer]

NAVRATRI / MAA DURGA PUJA

Navratri and Durga Puja are two major Hindu festivals celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, though their significance and style of celebration vary across regions.

Navratri, meaning "Nine Nights," is a festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her nine forms. It typically spans nine days and nights and occurs twice a year – Chaitra Navratri (spring) and Sharad Navratri (autumn). The autumn Navratri is more widely celebrated and culminates in Dussehra or Vijayadashami, marking the victory of good over evil.

The chief deity adorned on these days is the feminine principle of the divinity. Therefore, all the forms of Mother Goddesses are heralded, worshiped and adorned on these days. Called as Shakti, the female energy represents the universe, while Shiva represents the consciousness or soul.

Maa Durga is the ultimate source of power who takes care of the entire universe and feeds it. The Navratri festival glorifies the eternal power of Durga and seeks her blessing and protection. As per the legend, there was a demon called Mahishasura who was a terror to all the three worlds.

As per the boons he had received, he could not be killed by any gods, humans or demons except the feminine energy, which he underestimated to be insufficient to vanquish him. To save all the worlds from his captivity, Mother Durga, assumed a terrific form and waged a war against him for nine days and killed him on the tenth day. The word Durga also means the power which destroys misery and sufferings.

A Sanskrit verse heralds Mother Durga as “Durga Dhurgati Nashini”, the one who destroys afflictions. Worshipping Mother Durga on these nine days is said to confer joy, prosperity, wealth, hope, wisdom, success and lasting happiness.

The Navratri festival is a sort of refreshing and recharging one. Homes, educational institutions, businesses and organizations clean their premises and conduct pujas and worship on these nine days.

Some of the key Aspects:

Goddess Worship: Each of the nine days is dedicated to a different avatar of Durga (Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, etc.).

Fasting and Rituals: Devotees observe fasts and perform daily pujas (prayers) with offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets.

Garba and Dandiya Raas: In Gujarat and Maharashtra, it is celebrated with dance forms like Garba and Dandiya Raas, which are performed in groups, with people wearing colorful traditional attire.

Kanya Pujan: On the eighth or ninth day, young girls are honored as embodiments of the goddess and offered food and gifts.

Dussehra: The tenth day symbolizes the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana or Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.

Durga Puja celebration :

Durga Puja, particularly prominent in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Bihar, celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. It typically spans five days (Shashthi, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami) but preparation and celebrations can last longer.

Some of the key Aspects:

Idol Worship: Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) house stunning idols of Durga, along with her children (Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya). Devotees visit these pandals to offer prayers and seek blessings.

Cultural Festivities: Durga Puja is not just a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza. Traditional dances, plays, music performances, and art exhibitions form an integral part of the celebration.

Anjali and Sindoor Khela: Devotees offer Pushpanjali (flower offerings) on Ashtami, and on Dashami, married women apply sindoor (vermillion) on each other as part of Sindoor Khela, symbolizing the goddess's departure to her heavenly abode.

Immersion (Visarjan): The idols are immersed in water bodies, symbolizing Durga's return to Mount Kailash.

While both festivals celebrate the feminine divine and the triumph of good over evil, Navratri tends to have a more pan-Indian presence, while Durga Puja is particularly grand in Eastern India, especially Kolkata. Both festivals bring communities together and inspire a spirit of devotion and joy.

[curious-sight]

What is the ritual of navmi?

Kanya Pujan is usually conducted on Ashtami or Navmi. Nine girls acknowledged as the nine avatars of Maa Durga, are welcomed into homes and offered Saatvik Bhog. It includes puri, chole, halwa, fruits, coconut, etc.

The Kanyas' feet are washed, and Roli is applied to their forehead. A pious thread is tied on their wrist, and only after this, the girls are offered food.

As the girls are believed to embody the form of Maa Durga, they are offered grains, money or clothes while departing, and in return, blessings are sought from them.

To read insightful information about Dussehra, don’t forget to follow us @imavatarofficial and download the #IMAVATAR App now! Any queries? Write to info@imavatar.com

[secretearthquakecheesecake]

🌈The Shilpa Shetty shares a glimpse of performing "kanya puja" with her daughter Samisha on Durga Ashtami - Navratra Festival 2023

This ritual is practised to show gratitude towards Goddess Durga and her nine different forms and incarnations.

🌼𑜞᭄with ℒℴѵℯ 🌹💞

[blogynewz]

"Dive into an Enchanting Time Capsule: Unforgettable Moments Unfold as Sandhi Puja Brings Waves of Nostalgia at Kali Badi"

Sandhi Puja, a significant ritual of the five-day Durga Puja festival, was conducted at Kali Badis in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The day commenced with the chanting of Sanskrit hymns and the offering of anjali to the Goddess by thousands of devotees in community puja pandals. As the day progressed, the Sandhi Puja took place, symbolizing the connection between Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami. The…