Victory of Shakti
Navratri celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura after a nine-day battle. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Each of the nine days is dedicated to a different form of the Goddess (Navadurga).
Spiritual Benefit: Peace of mind, removal of negative karma, and divine blessings.
Allowed (Satvik)
- Kuttu Atta (Buckwheat)
- Singhara Atta
- Sabudana
- Samak Rice
- Fruits
- Dairy
- Sendha Namak (Rock Salt)
Restricted (Tamasic)
- Wheat
- Rice
- Semolina
- Corn flour
- Onion
- Garlic
- Lentils/Legumes
- Common Salt
Fasting Variants
Falahar: Only fruits and milk.
One Meal: One satvik meal a day.
Pair Upvas: Fasting only on the first and last (Eighth/Ninth) day.
Strict cleanliness and celibacy are maintained.
Step-by-Step Worship
- Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) on the first day.
- Daily worship of the specific Devi form (Shailputri, Brahmacharini, etc.).
- Offer red flowers (Hibiscus) and sweets.
- Light an Akhand Jyot (optional continuous lamp).
- Recite Durga Saptashati or Devi Mahatmyam.
Mantra to Chant
Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti-rupena Samsthita
Required Samagri
Kalash, Mango leaves, Coconut, Red Cloth, Barley seeds, Red Flowers
Breaking the Fast (Parana)
Detailed breaking of fast happens on the 10th day (Vijayadashami) or after Kanya Pujan on Ashtami/Navami.
Timing Note: Kanya Pujan (feeding young girls) is a key ritual before parana.