India is a country of unity with diversity, many festivals were celebrated here and all have unique place in people’s heart. Every festival has its different custom and rituals. Navaratri is also one of major festivals among Hindu’s in which people worship Hindu diety Durga, she is considered as mother among the Hindu’s.
Navaratri means nine nights in Sanskrit which means nava or and ratri meaning nights. During these nine nights and ten days, nine forms of Devi Durga are worshipped. The tenth day is commonly referred to as Vijayadashami or “Dussehra”. In Navaratri devotees use to keep fast all nine days.
The tradition of Navaratri is written in the Devi-Mahatmya, which is an Indian text from the Markandeya Purana. It tells the story in which the goddess Durga, who encompasses all forms of the Devi, spends nine days in battle with the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The demon embodies the ego and the forces of ignorance. The goddess Durga defeated the demon on the tenth day, this day is known as Dashehra, it is said that on that day Maa Durga wins over darkness.
Do you know the DO’s and Don’ts during Navaratri festival?:
Let us have a look on Do’s and Don’ts of Navaratri:
Do’s:
* Do lamp lighting, offer flowers, Aarti in front of Maa Durga daily in morning as well as in evening also in temple of your house.
* Give Bhog to Goddess every day whatever you cook in your kitchen first present it to Maa Durga, it is not compulsory that you have to offer a Bhog of food only but you can offer milk and fruits also.
* It is considered that if you offer water every day to Maa during Navaratri it is so auspicious.
* Girls especially below 10 years of age are considered as Avatar’s of Goddess so give them gifts, invite them for food at your house.
* Chant all the mantras as well as shlokas of Maa Durga and pray to cleanse your Past Karmas.
Now the list comes of what you should avoid doing during Navaratri:
* Never use discarded cloths always wear fresh well washed cloths after taking bath.
* People who are on fast during Navaratri should not have a haircut or shave even they should not cut their nails also.
* You should not eat non-veg, onion and garlic while Navaratri.
* Do not use products which are made up of leather.
* If you are chanting mantra or chalisa do not talk in between to anyone. It is said that it will bring negative energy in your house.
* Stay away from sexual relations during this period.
We wish you all a very happy Navaratri ahead.
