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Pooja
Navratri is amongst the most important Hindu festivals. This auspicious festival is celebrated with
great zeal and devotion throughout the country. The literal meaning of 'Navratri' is 'nine auspicious
nights'. Navratri is a pious festival celebrated in the honor of nine different forms of the Goddess
Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati for nine continuous days. The Goddess of Power is worshipped
during these days in order to seek her blessings and protection from any unknown fear and possible
threat. The devotees ask for peace and prosperity from the Goddess. The Goddess of power has the
supremacy over the creation, preservation and destruction of the
universe.
Navratri is being celebrated in our country adhering to all the
customs and rituals. It is of utmost importance to know the exact
method of performing the Navratri Pooja. Here, is the full Navratri
Pooja Vidhi.
Fresh grass
Sandalwood
One coconut
Rice
Cloves
Cardamom
Kumkum (vermilion)
Gulal
You will need incense sticks, a 'deep' and a matchstick. You will also require some fresh flowers like
rose, jasmine or red hibiscus. You may offer fresh fruits and sweets such as 'laddoo', or 'peda' for
prasad. Take a mat, to sit. If possible, every member of the house should sit together.
prasad and do aarti of Goddess Durga. Sing the "Kshama Prarthana" of the 13th chapter of sacred
Durga Saptshati and conclude the Puja. Pray with whole heart.
The Durga Saptashati book should be kept carefully and respectfully.
The Goddess 'Kushmanda' is worshipped on the fourth day. She is believed to be the creator of the
universe. On the fifth day, 'Skanda Mata' is worshipped. She is the mother of the chief warrior of the
God's Army, Skand. The sixth day is devoted for the Goddess 'Katyayani', who has three eyes and
four hands.
The Goddess 'Kalratri' is worshipped on the seventh day of Navratri. She is as black as the night and
takes away all the fears from the devotees. The Goddess 'Maha Gauri' is worshipped on the eighth
day of Navratri. She is the epitome of beauty and as white as the snow. She represents calmness
and wisdom. The ninth day, also known as 'Mahanavami', is the concluding day of Navratri. Goddess
'Siddhidatri' is worshipped on the last day of Navratri.
Navratri is a festival of sentiments, positive thoughts, peace and prosperity. Every year it is
welcomed with great respect and love. People refrain from wrong deeds and indulge in pure
devotion. Wish you a Happy Navratri!