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What is Navaratri?

Navaratri 2025: What is Navaratri and why is it celebrated? Celebrating the advent of the Divine Mother (Maa Durga or Devi) marks the celebration of Navaratri. For 9 nights, the belief is that Devi descends to earth and her divine energy and presence is accessible every devotee, making it the most powerful time to intensify sadhana. [WATCH | Navaratri, Vidyarambam and Kollur Mookambika Temple]

What is the moral of Navaratri?

The triumph of goodness over evil is the moral of Navaratri.

Why do we celebrate Navaratri?

We celebrate Navaratri to worship, revere and honour the presence of the 9 forms of the Divine Mother in our midst.

What is the logic behind Navaratri?

The logic is to honour and revere the Divine Feminine force, which is worshipped as Shakti in Indian households.

What is the theme of Navaratri?

Worshipping the Divine Feminine force or Shakti marks the theme of Navaratri.

Why is fasting done during Navaratri?

Inner cleansing is the purpose of Navaratri sadhana and fasting.

What are the dos and don'ts in Navaratri vrat?

Invoke the blessings of your Kul Devata and Grama Devata. Chant or listen to Durga Saptashati or Devi Mahatmya daily. You can also chant Saundarya Lahari or Sri Lalitha Sahasranamam throughout Navaratri.

What food is healthy for Navaratri?

Eat vegetarian food which is light. Avoid oily, dense, heavy food. 

What is the daily prasad for Navaratri?

As per Sri Lalitha Sahasranamam, Devi is pleased by the following:

  • a glass of milk (boiled and cooled) with sugar
  • aval and malar
  • kheer or payasam
  • white pongal
  • jaggery based kheer or pongal, sweet desserts such as nei appam or unni appam
  • turmeric rice
  • lemon rice
  • tamarind rice
  • curd rice
  • a small bowl of honey
  • pomengranates infused with honey
  • bananas infused with honey

Remember, Devi is not impressed by elaborate rituals or feasts - it is your Bhaki and Prema that pleases her.

What should not be done in Navaratri?

Focus on strengthening your sadhana and intensifying your own divine energy.

Avoid eating non-vegetarian food. Avoid gossiping about others. Speak gently.

Do not disrespect women and the elderly people. Be kind and gentle to people.

What is the concept of the 9 days of Navaratri?

Celebrating the 9 divine forms of the Divine Mother marks the essence of Navaratri celebrations.

What happens during the nine days of Navaratri?

During the nine days of Navaratri, there are celebrations across the country. Each region celebrates according to their beliefs. Durga Puja pandals are magnificently decorated across the country. The most festive Navaratri celebrations are usually held in Bengal. In the last two decades, the Navaratri celebrations have been multiplying across housing and residential colonies everywhere, with music and cultural programs throughout the night. 

The best way to benefit from the Navaratri celebrations is to adhere to your daily sadhana, intensify you prayers with a good intent for self-growth and well-being of your family. Loud music, dance and boisterous celebrations are not ideal for those who want to intensify sadhana and want to seek spiritual growth.

What are the rules of Navaratri?

  • Daily worship of Divine Mother is essential
  • Listening or chanting Lalitha Sahasranama is highly beneficial
  • Eat sathwic food which is prepared at home
  • Observe Navaratri fast for best and fastest results
  • Ensure your intent is pure and good when doing Devi Sadhana
  • Avoid non-vegetarian food
  • As Devi's energy is best experienced in the night, pray during 9 nights

Can we wear black on Navaratri?

No. While black is not banned, the colour is not recommended for your own well-being as it is believed to absorb negative aura and intensify negative vibes. 

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba teaches, "Regard your heart as a radio receiver. Your concentration is the tuning device. You will experience the Divine when you tune your heart properly. This calls for firm, unwavering concentration."

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