Monday Motivation: The Festival of Navaratri & Dussehra

Today, is Navami, the last day of Navratri. Right since the first day of Navratri there is such immense feeling of gaiety and festivity in the house. Throughout the nine days there are various pujas scheduled for different days and each household has its own practices. There are traditions that are followed and when parents follow these traditions the children start to understand and imbibe them.

Moreover, these festivities are a wonderful way for the younger generation of our country to learn about our rich cultural heritage and diversity. The way in which most states of India celebrate Navaratri is so unique. In Gujarat, Dandiya and Garba dances are popular whereas in West Bengal it is called Durga Puja and elaborate although temporary pandols are constructed. In Maharashtra we begin the Navratri festival by celebrating Ghatasthapana by sowing seeds and also worship goddess Saraswati the goddess of knowledge. In the southern parts of the country lavish processions take place and in Uttar Pradesh Ram Leela is showcased on the stage. Every part of the country celebrates Navratri with fervor and aplomb.

On the eighth and sometimes the ninth day, Kumari Puja takes place when young girls are worshipped as a mark of respect to women power. They signify the spirit of the Goddess Durga, who is considered as a source of energy or urja for the universe. Therefore, Navratri also holds significance as a celebration of women empowerment.

The one common factor that binds festivals and celebrations across the world is food. I love to cook for my friends and family. Many of us fast for 9 days by eating food like ‘Sabudana Khichadi’ which is tasty and also high calorie.

I look forward to these days when I get to spend time with my family and my grandchildren. For years I have followed traditions such as going to the Chaturshinghi temple with my mother. Climbing up the numerous stairs might seem like an arduous task but our worship and dedication make it easy. This year I went with my daughter and it felt wonderful to make her a part of this tradition.

To celebrate the atmosphere of the festivals one should join in the younger generation wholeheartedly, because life lies in living the moment. A house only becomes a home when all the members come together to celebrate a common cause whether it is a birthday or a puja.

Today is the last day of Navratri. Tomorrow is Dussehra and I wish everyone a very happy Dussehra! Dr. S. B. Mujumdar Sir often says “When intellect is used without conscience then demons come alive.” May we be blessed with the wisdom to use our intellect with conscience.