Navratri Festival is the event of joy and wonder. This day is celebrated all across the India and in the rest of the world with great enthusiasm and certainty. Read the following Essay on Navratri Festival that discusses its brief history, significance and importance of Navratri day. Further it lets you explore the ideas how to celebrate Navratri at school, home or office.
Essay on Navratri Festival For Students | History, Importance & Lessons of Navratri for Students
Navratri is a nine-night Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of the goddess Durga. It is observed throughout India, but particularly in the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. The festival typically occurs in October or November.
The word Navratri means “nine nights” in Sanskrit, nava meaning “nine” and ratri meaning “nights.” During Navratri, devotees observe a fast and perform special prayers and rituals in honor of Durga. The festival culminates on the tenth day, or Dussehra, with the celebration of Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura.
Brief History of Navratri
The history of Navratri is intimately connected with the legend of Durga and Mahishasura. According to Hindu mythology, Durga was created by the gods to fight and defeat Mahishasura, a powerful demon who had gained control over the universe. After a long and fierce battle, Durga finally succeeded in destroying Mahishasura.
To commemorate her victory, the festival of Navratri was established. Navratri is also associated with the story of Rama and Sita. It is believed that Rama, the king of Ayodhya, worshipped Durga during Navratri in order to defeat the demon king Ravana. This legend is commemorated on the ninth day of Navratri, also known as Ram Navami.
Significance of Navratri
Navratri is significant for Hindus because it celebrates the victory of good over evil. The festival also marks the beginning of the harvest season and is therefore a time of thanksgiving. For many Hindus, Navratri is also a time of fasting, prayer, and meditation.
During Navratri, Hindus also worship the nine forms of Durga, also known as the Navadurga. Each form of Durga represents a different aspect of the goddess, and each day of Navratri is dedicated to one of these forms. The nine forms of Durga are:
- Shailaputri: The daughter of Himalaya
- Brahmacharini: The one who practices penance
- Chandraghanta: The one with a moon-like face
- Kushmanda: The creator of the universe
- Skandamata: The mother of Skanda or Kartikeya
- Katyayani: The one who is born of Katyayana
- Kalaratri: The black night
- Maha Gauri: The extremely fair one
- Siddhidatri: The giver of Siddhis or spiritual powers
On the tenth day of Navratri, also known as Dussehra, Hindus celebrate the victory of Durga over Mahishasura. This day is also considered to be auspicious for starting new ventures. Navratri is one of the most popular Hindu festivals. It is a time of celebration, worship, and thanksgiving. The festival is significant for Hindus because it celebrates the victory of good over evil and marks the beginning of the harvest season. Navratri is also a time of fasting, prayer, and meditation for many Hindus.
What does it teach us?
The festival of Navratri teaches us the importance of faith and perseverance. It also teaches us about the power of good over evil. The story of Durga and Mahishasura is a reminder that good will always triumph over evil in the end.
Conclusion
Navratri is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. The festival is observed throughout India, but is particularly celebrated in the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. It has great historical and religious significance. It teaches us the importance of faith, perseverance, and the power of good over evil.