According to Hindu mystics, Navratri is an auspicious occasion that spans over nine nights and is observed to worship the divine feminine Goddess Durga. The enacting of religious stories, stage performances, recital of Hindu scriptures, and fasting marks the celebration. These nine bright and felicitous days are solely dedicated to the worship of the nine avatars of Maa Durga, highlighting the significance of Navratri.

At our CBSE school, we believe that each student must appreciate the culture they belong to and celebrate it with enthusiasm. In today’s article, we will put an effort into educating our students about Navratri and its significance.

Let’s begin with the Navratri significance of each day and the background knowledge about this festival. Navratri has its roots in the battle that took place between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura, representing the victory of good over evil. Each day of Navratri illustrates a distinct avatar of Devi Durga, emphasizing the spiritual importance of Navratri and the various rituals involved in Goddess Durga pooja. We’re going to briefly discuss the 9 days of Navratri Devi names and colors, as each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, inviting devotees to participate in the vibrant celebrations and rituals. This also reinforces the essence of honoring Goddess Durga, as each day unfolds with unique prayers and offerings, fostering a deep sense of devotion among the worshippers. We’re going to briefly discuss the importance of the days and the colors associated with them as follows:

1- SHAILPUTRI- The color of the first day of Navratri is red, which depicts ardour and action. It is the form of deity Durga is worshipped as the companion of Lord Shiva and personifies the collective power of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.

2- BRAHAMCHARINI- The color of this day is royal blue which embodies a calm yet strong force. On this day, whosoever worships the deity is devoured with bliss, happiness, peace, grace and prosperity in life. 

3- CHANDRAGHANTA- The third day outlines beauty, grace, tranquility and bravery. The auspicious color of the day is yellow.

4- KUSHMUNDA- It is said that the fourth avatar of Goddess Durga is the creator of this universe which is full of happiness and vegetation to sustain life. Therefore, this day celebrates the color green.

5- SKAND MATA- Skand or Kartikeya is accompanied by Deity Durga in his infant form. This day is marked by the color grey, which depicts the strength of a mother who can be as powerful as a storm cloud to protect her child.

6- KATYAYINI- Goddess Durga was born as a daughter to a saint named Kata. Hence, she was named Katyayini. The color of this day is orange, which symbolizes courage.

7- KALRATRI- This avatar is the most powerful of all the avatars of Devi Durga named Kali. Her appearance depicts fearlessness, but at the same time, she’s dressed in white which is also the color of the day that stands for peace.

8- MAHA GAURI- Goddess Durga gained her austerities in the forests of the Himalayas, where her complexion turned black. It is said that Lord Shiva washed her with the holy water of the Ganga that gifted her beauty back. This day is marked by the color pink denoting hope.

9- SIDDHIDATRI- The last avatar of Devi Durga portrays healing and a happy state of mind. On the last day of Navratri, the deity is happy and showers her devotees with blessings.

The Navratri that falls in April is known as Chaitra Navratri, these are some wonderful days to delve into the sea of spirituality. We hope this blog was interesting and offered valuable knowledge about our culture. As the season of Navratri is approaching, get ready for the festivities and celebrate them with full energy and zeal.