Navratri is one of the most special 9 days of devotion for our country. Everything feels positive and charged. The spiritual importance of Navratri has a deeper meaning; it awakens the divine within us.  In this blog, we will dive into the importance of the best nine days of Navratri. 

What does Navratri stand for?

If you look at the meaning of Navratri, it is “nine nights”. There are many stories attached to it, and these 9 nights are the celebration of good over evil, the power of light over darkness, and self-realisation over ignorance. These nine nights are not just for decorating the homes and playing garba. It is the time when devotees also worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga that are collectively known as Navdurga. 

For many people, this is the best time for connecting with themselves spiritually. It is the time of the year when we all should pause, reflect, purify and reconnect with our inner self and strength. Do you know our Goddess Durga represents shakti, the universal energy that sustains life? Devotees do fasting, prayers, music and dance to honour this cosmic power around them and within them. 

If you are looking for a beautiful painting of goddess Maa Durga for the festival, then you can reach out to Soulful Paintings. Their artworks beautifully reflect the feminine & divine energy of Navratri. 

The 9 days of Navratri

The spiritual importance of Navratri lies in these 9 days. Each day has a distinct energy and a special meaning. 

Day 1- Shailputri 

The first day of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Shailputri. She is the symbol of stability, courage and the grounding force. This day is a reminder for all of us to stay rooted. The name Shailputri means “mountain's daughter”.  

Day 2- Brahmacharini

The second day is dedicated to Goddess Brahmacharini. As the name signifies, she is the form who sacrifices all the earthly pleasures of life. The colour white is associated with Brahmacharini, which represents purity and inner calm. 

Day 3- Chandraghanta

The third day is for Goddess Chandraghanta. She has a half-moon shaped like a bell on her brow. When she married Lord Shiva, she decorated her forehead with this symbol. She is worshipped to bring peace and success in life.

Day 4 – Kushmanda 

Did you know that Kushmanda Mata was so powerful that she could live inside the sun that burns? Her name represents that power.  She is given credit for creating this grand universe. Those who worship her are bestowed with good health and strength.

Day 5- Skandamata

The fifth day is dedicated to the divine mother Skandamata. Like every nature has an inbuilt protective nature, Skandamata is the protection of the entire universe. She is also the mother of Shad-darshanas. She blesses devotees with a heart of nurturing.

Day 6 – Katyayani

The sixth form of Mother Divine is Katyayani. She is the warrior form of Durga, who destroys evil forces, such as Mahishasura. She is known as the most violent form of Durga, and worshipping her helps face challenges with integrity and power. 

Day 7-Kalaratri 

Kalaratri maa symbolises the destruction of ignorance and ego. She also represents the night before dawn. Worshipping Kalaratri maa helps us face our shadows before we find the light, remove obstacles and attain liberation.

Day 8- Mahagauri  

Goddess Mahagauri is the eighth form that represents cleansing and renewal. She is the epitome of purity and fairness. Worshipping her helps in removing negative karmic energy, achieving success, and having a happy marriage. 

Day 9-Siddhidatri

The ninth form of devi shakti is Siddhidhatri. She is the one who grants the fruits of your efforts. Many mythology also mentions that Lord Shiva received all his siddhis from Maa Siddhidatri.

As a devotee, when the nine days end, you will experience a subtle transformation within yourself and a greater connection to the feminine energy. 

What spiritual practices can you do during Navratri?

1. Fasting 

Many devotees do a 9-day fast, while some do it on the first and last day of Navratri. This fasting is more than a dietary discipline; it's a way to purify the body. During this time, you are supposed to eat satvik food without any masalas, onions and garlic. This food helps you align your inner energy, stay calm and focused. 

2. Mediation & Prayer

Doing meditation during Navratri connects us to the Goddess. Chanting mantras will help you enhance protection and strength. 

3. Dance as devotion 

Garba, the traditional folk dance, is performed during the 9 nights of Navratri. Devotees dance in circular movements around the garbha deep that represents life, death and rebirth. 

4. Acts of service

During these 9 days, you can help the needy and show gratitude for all the blessings Goddess Durga Maa has showered you with. 

 

If you want to rediscover the Shakti within yourself, the 9 days of Navratri can be perfect. The importance of 7 days goes beyond the ritual; it is about reconnecting with the rhythm of life itself. 

1. What does Navratri mean?

Navratri is the nine nights, where we worship the nine unique forms of goddess Durga. 

2. Why is Garba played during Navratri? 

Garba is played to honour the feminine energy of Shakti and celebrate the victory of good over evil, like Mahishasura. 

3. What can I do during Navratri if I can’t fast?

It’s okay if you don’t fast. You can still pray, meditate and visit temples and help someone in need. 

4. Where can I get the perfect painting for the Navratri to add to my puja room?

You can get in touch with Soulful Paintings. We have a beautiful collection of Maa Durga paintings that will be the perfect addition to your puja room.