6 important things every child should know about Navratri
Find here 6 important things every child should know about Navratri
1. Navratri comes 4 times in a year
Navratri comes four times in a year. It is celebrated from Pratipada to Navami in Magh, Chaitra, Ashadh and Ashwin months. Among these, Navratri falling in the month of Ashwin is called Shardiya Navratri. That is, Navratri coming during the autumn season. Apart from this, Navratri celebrated in the month of Chaitra is called Vasantik Navratri. On the other hand, Navratri, celebrated in the month of Magha, falls in the winter season. Apart from this, Navratri with Ashadh Shukla Paksha is celebrated in the rainy season.
2. Navratri date changes every year
Navratri date is not the same. It changes every year according to the Hindu calendar. The festival begins with Pratipada and ends with Dussehra. This year Navratri is from 26 September to 5 October.
3. Navratri is also a celebration of the victory of Maa Durga
Whenever we talk of Navratri, we are reminded of the stories of how Goddess Durga fought and killed the demon king Mahishasura. That is why nine incarnations of Maa Durga are worshiped during Navratri.
4. Shakti is worshiped
What makes Navratri extraordinary is that the feminine power is worshiped during this festival. This festival symbolizes femininity and the limitless energy of womanhood. Another important ritual of Navratri is Kanya Pujan, which talks about celebrating the feminine energy. On the ninth day of Navratri, girls are worshiped, given gifts and asked for their blessings. Young girls are considered to be incarnations of the goddess.
5. Weapons are worshiped
On the 9th day of Navratri, which is called Navami, weapons or work tools are worshipped. It is also called Ayudha Puja. On this day people also worship their car.
6. People fast in navratri
People of Hindu community keep fast during Navratri. Some people fast for two days, some four, and some for 9 days. Many people do not even fast, but avoid the consumption of meat, onions and garlic during these 9 days. People observing the fast use special types of flour and salt. The festival ends with Dussehra.