User:Samikshatambe23/sandbox

'''Navaratri is an annual Hindu festival observed in the honour of the goddess Durga. It spans over nine nights (and ten days), first in the month of Chaitra (March/April of the Gregorian calendar), and again in the month of Sharada. Italic text' Navratri is celebrated with all joy overall India.Also known as Sharda Navratri, this festival is observed in Hindu Lunar month called Ashwin.


 * On the first day, devotees worship the daughter of the mountain, Goddess Shailputri.
 * On the second day, they worship Brahmacharini, the unmarried avatar of Goddess Parvati.
 * The third is dedicated to Chandraghanta.
 * The fourth day, devotees worship Goddess Kushmanda who is said to be the creative power of the universe.
 * Fifth day is for Goddess Skandamata.
 * On the sixth day, devotees worship warrior Goddess Katyayani.
 * On the seventh day, Goddess Kaalratri is worshipped.
 * The eight day is for Goddess Mahagauri
 * The ninth day is dedicated to Goddess Siddhidatri.
 * On the last day, Vijaya Dashmani is celebrated when the idols are carried in processions and then immersed in water.

Forms of shakti worshipped during this festival include Durga, Bhadrakali, Amba, Annapoorna Devi, Sarvamangala, Bhairavi, Chandika, Lalita, Bhavani and Mookambika, respectively.

Garba dance during the celebrations has a great meaning to it. It represents the belief of time for Hindus. According to tradition, a clay lantern is placed in the centre of the circle which represents the devi.

The fasts kept during this festival are said to keep the devotees mentally strong. It is believed that fasting strengthens your system and helps you in keeping fit.

For some sages, this festival is the time period when they thank the divine. According to them, this is when the powers give energy to Earth so that it can easily revolve around the Sun and keeps the climatic changes in check, balancing the universe.