Chaitra Navratri, a sacred nine-day Hindu festival, began on March 30 this year. It marks the beginning of the Hindu lunar new year and is dedicated to worshipping Maa Durga and her nine divine forms, known collectively as the Navdurgas. The festival culminates with Ram Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama.
During Chaitra Navratri, each of the nine days is dedicated to one of Maa Durga’s avatars: Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kaalratri, Maa Mahagauri, and Maa Siddhidatri. Devotees perform rituals, observe fasts, and visit temples to seek blessings.
The eighth day, known as Durgashtami, holds special significance as devotees worship young girls, symbolizing the youthful manifestation of Goddess Durga. Special prayers and rituals mark this day, and offerings of traditional foods are made at home and in temples.
The ninth day, Ram Navami, marks Lord Rama’s birthday and is celebrated with fervor. Devotees chant hymns, sing devotional songs, and fast to seek the blessings of Lord Rama and Maa Durga.
As per the Hindu calendar, the key dates and timings are:
- Durgashtami (Mahashtami): Begins on April 4 at 8:12 PM and ends on April 5 at 7:26 PM.
- Mahanavami: Begins on April 5 at 7:26 PM and ends on April 6 at 7:22 PM.
- Ram Navami: Observed on April 6, 2025.
Chaitra Navratri is a time of devotion, reflection, and celebration, bringing people together to honor the divine feminine and Lord Rama’s birth. Whether fasting or participating in rituals, devotees seek blessings for prosperity, peace, and spiritual growth.