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NAVARATRI FESTIVALS (NAVARATRAS)

See my following link for Navratri Bhajans :
http://festivalsofindia-bb-blog.blogspot.in/2013/02/navaratra-bhajans.html

The word Navaratri literally means nine nights in Sanskrit; 'Nav' Nine and 'Ratri'
nights.

Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrated for nine days worshipping the various forms of
Durga.

'Nava-ratri' is one of the most important Hindu festivals in the country. It is celebrated
with immense zeal and enthusiasm all over the country.

It is celebrated twice a year -once in Chaitra (March-April) and the other in Ashwin
(September-October). Navartra literally means 'nine auspicious nights'. It is actually the
worship of the Goddess of power in order to seek her protection from any possible kind
of threat and calamities that may destroy the peaceful life of people on earth. As she is
the goddess of power, she is believed to have the power of creation, preservation and
destruction.

SIGNIFICANCE

The beginning of spring and the beginning of autumn are two very important junctions of
climatic and solar influence. These two periods are taken as sacred opportunities for the
worship of the Divine Mother. The dates of the festival are determined according to the
lunar calendar.

NAVRATRI CALENDAR FOR 2016:

(1) Magh Navratri or Gupt Navratra Dates in Feb 2016

(From Tuesday,09th Feb 2016 to Wednesday,17th Feb 2016)

Date Day Festival

09th Feb 2016 Tuesday Pratipada, Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Pujan

10th Feb 2016 Wednesday Dwitiya, Brahmacharini Pujan
11th Feb 2016 Thursday Tritiya, Chandraghanta Pujan, Kushmanda Pujan
12th Feb 2016 Friday Panchami, Skandamata Pujan
13th Feb 2016 Saturday Shashthi, Katyayani Pujan
14th Feb 2016 Sunday Saptami, Kalaratri Pujan
15th Feb 2016 Monday Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Pujan, Sandhi Puja
16th Feb 2016 Tuesday Navami, Siddhidatri Pujan
17th Feb 2016 Wednesday Dashami, Navratri Parana

********************************************************

(2) Vasant or Chaitra Navratri Dates in April 2016

( From 08 April 2016, Friday to Saturday, 16 April 2016)

Date Day Festival

08 Apr 2016 (Fri) -------Pratipada or Ghatsthapana or Kalash Sthapana

09 Apr 2016 (Sat) ------Dwitiya & Tritya/Sindhara Dooj/ Brahmacharini Puja
10 Apr 2016(Sun) -------Chaturthi or Kushmanda Puja
11 Apr 2016(Mon) ------Panchami or Skandamata Puja
12 Apr 2016 (Tue)------ Shashthi or Katyayani Puja
13 Apr 2016 (Wed) -----Saptami (Maha Saptami) or Kalaratri Puja
14 Apr 2016 (Thurs) ---Durga Ashtami or Sandhi Puja
15 Apr 2016 (Fri) ------Rama Navami
16 Apr 2016 (Sat) ----- Dashami

********************************************************
(3) Ashaad Navratri or Gupt Navaratri Dates in July 2016

(05th July 2016 ,Tuesday - 14th July 2016, Thursday)

Date Day Festival

05th July 2016 Tuesday Pratipada, Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Pujan

06th July 2016 Wednesday Dwitiya, Brahmacharini Pujan
07th July 2016 Thursday Tritiya, Chandraghanta Pujan
08th July 2016 Friday Chaturthi, Kushmanda Pujan
09th July 2016 Saturday Panchami, Skandamata Pujan
10th July 2016 Sunday Shashthi, Katyayani Pujan
11th July 2016 Monday Saptami, Kalaratri Pujan
12th July2016 Tuesday Ashtami, Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Pujan, Sandhi
Puja
13th July 2016 Wednesday Navami, Siddhidatri Pujan
14th July 2016 Thursday Dashami Navaratri Parana

********************************************************

(4) Sharad Navratri Dates in October 2016

(From Saturday, October 01, 2016 to Tuesday, October 11, 2016)

Date Day Festival

Navratri Day 1 ---- Pratipada ----- Saturday, October 01, 2016
Navratri Day 1 ---- Prathma ------- Sunday, October 02, 2016 -- (Tithi is
repeated)
Navratri Day 2 ---- Dwitiya --------Monday, October 03, 2016
Navratri Day 3 ---- Tritiya ---------Tuesday, October 04, 2016
Navratri Day 4 --- Chaturthi ----- Wednesday,October 05, 2016
Navratri Day 5 ---- Panchami ------Thursday, October 06, 2016
Navratri Day 6 ---- Shashthi ------ Friday, October 07, 2016
Navratri Day 7 --- Saptami ------- Saturday, October 08, 2016
Navratri Day 8 --- Ashtami ------- Sunday, October 09, 2016
Navratri Day 9 ---- Navami --------Monday, October 10, 2016
Navratri Day 10 --- Dashami -------Tuesday, October 11, 2016

*******************************************

(5) Paush / Shakambhari Navratri 2016 Dates--

Shakambhari Navratri Begins on January 17, 2016 (Sunday)
Shakambhari Navratri Ends on January 23, 2016 (Saturday)
******************************************************

Traditions of Navaratri

According to Hindu calender year, Navaratri is celebrated five times in a year:

They are:--

(A) Magha (or) Shishir Navratri (JanuaryFebruary) (gupt navratri)

(B) Vasant (or) Chaitra Navratri (MarchApril) (prakat navratri)

(C) Ashaadh (or) Varsha Ritu Navratri (JuneJuly) (gupt navratri)

(D) Sharad (or) Ashwin Navratri, (SeptemberOctober) (prakat navratri)

(E) Paush Navratri (December-January) (gupt navratri)

These are further divided into Prakat and Gupt Navaratri.

From the above mentioned Navaratri,

Vasant and Sharad Navratri are Prakat Navaratri;

while Magha, Ashadh and Paush Navaratri are called Gupt Navaratri.

Though Ashwin Navratri and the Vasanta Navratri of the Chaitra are very important and
known to everyone, the other three navratras are known as gupt navratra are equally
significant and are meant for sadhaks.

(A) Magha Navaratri:

Magha Navratri, (also referred Gupta Navratri), is nine days dedicated to

Goddess Saraswati Devi in the month of Magha (JanuaryFebruary).
Magha Navaratri is observed during the Magha Shukla Paksha (waxing
phase of moon). Magha navratri puja act as a shield from danger, injury,
destruction or damage and person obtains riddhi & siddhi. These are very
auspicious days for the tantriks, sadhaks for saadhna and also for any
other specific tantrik pooja to resolve the materialistic problems.

Magha Navratri, also known as Gupta Navratri, is nine days period

dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti or mother Goddess. It falls in the
month of Magh during January or February. Magh Navratri, which is less
known in most places, is mainly observed in North Indian states like
Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
------------------------------

(B) Vasanta (or)Basanta (or)Vasantic (or) Chaitra Navratras (or)Ram Navratras:-

This is the festival of nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess)
in the spring season (MarchApril). It is celebrated in Chaitra lunar month during Shukla
Paksha (waxing phase of moon).

------------------------------

(C) Ashadha or Gayatri or Shakambhari Navratri (Gupt Navratri), is nine days dedicated to
the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Ashaadh (JuneJuly). It is
observed during Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).

------------------------------

(D) Sharada Navaratri: This is the most important of the Navratris. It is simply called
Maha Navratri (the Great Navratri) and is celebrated in the month of Ashwin. Also known
as Sharad Navaratri, as it is celebrated during Sharad (Ashwin lunar month, beginning of
winter, September October).

------------------------------

(E) Paush Navaratri: Paush (Pushya) Navratri is nine days dedicated to Goddess
Shakambari Mata in the month of Paush (DecemberJanuary). Paush Navaratri is
observed during the Paush Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).

========================================
CHAITRA NAVRATRAS (Sat, March 21 - Sat, March 28, 2015)

Vasanta (or)Basanta (or)Vasantic (or) Chaitra

Navratras (or)Ram
Navratras:-
This is celebrated during Vasanta Rhitu (beginning of summer) (March- April). This is
also known as Chaitra navaratri as it falls during the lunar month of Chaitra.

** The Nine Days Navaratri Celebrations and rituals

are similar in Chaitra Navaratras as well as Sharad
Navaratras.
Navaratri is separated into sets of three days i.e. into three sets. These sets are made in
order to adore different facets of the supreme goddess.

* Goddess Durga is worshipped during the first three days.

* Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped during the next three days
* Goddess Saraswathi is worshipped during the last three days.

She is also worshipped under nine different names for the nine days in Navratri. Every
day, she assumes a new character, a new look and a new duty. She is worshipped as ---

1. Shailputri,
2. Brahmacharini,
3. Chandraghanta,
4. Kushmanda,
5. Skanda Mata,
6. Katyayani,
7. Kalratri,
8. Maha Gauri and
9. Siddhidatri.

-------------------------------------

1. First Day Pooja

The first form of Goddess Durga is called Shailputri .
She is considered the daughter of the Himalayas (King of the Mountain). She is a form of
Shakti, the consort of Lord Shiva.She is the mother of Ganesha and Kartikeya.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2. Second Day Pooja

The second form of Goddess Durga is known as 'Brahmacharini'.
Her name is derivative of the word 'Brahma', which means 'Tapa' or penace. She is also a
form of Uma or Parvati, a form of Mata Shakti.She gives the message of pure love to the
world;

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

3. Third Day Pooja

On the third day the goddess is worshipped as Chandraghanta.
She is the symbolic representation of beauty and bravery. She establishes Justice and
wears crescent moon on Her head;

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

4. Fourth Day Pooja

Kushmanda, is the form of the goddess which is worshipped on the fourth day.
It is believed that Kushmanda has created the entire Universe by her laugh. She provides
the basic necessities to the world.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

5. Fifth Day Pooja

On the fifth day, the form of Goddess is called Skand Mata.
She is actually called so because she is here represented as the mother of Skanda, the
chief warrior of the Gods army. She gives the gift of differentiation of right from wrong to
the world.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

6. Sixth Day Pooja

On the sixth day, the goddess is worshipped as Katyayani.
Seated on her vehicle lion, Katyayani has three eyes and four hands.She persistently
battles against the evil and deceitful entities.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

7. Seventh Day Pooja

On the seventh day, the Goddess is worshipped as 'Kalratri'.
As the name suggests, Kalrati is as black as a dark night. She has four hands, she is
meant to make the devotees fearless.She killed Raktabeej ( a demon who produced a
demon from every drop of blood that fell from his body. Goddess eventually licked the
blood before it could reach the ground and hence conquered him).

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

8. Eighth Day Pooja

On the eight day, the Mata Rani is worshipped as 'Maha Gauri'.
She is considered to extremely beautiful, white like snow and accessorized with white
colored ornaments. She represents calmness and exhibits wisdom.She also liberates the
world of evil forces;

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

9. Ninth Day Pooja

On the ninth day, Durga is worshipped as Siddhidatri.
It is believed she consists of all the eight siddhis. She lives on lotus and is worshipped
by all the Rishis-Munis, Siddhas, Sadhakas and Yogis. She is a treasure house of Mystic
Powers (Yantra Tantra) and Knowledge (Gyaan).

==============================

POOJA VIDHI

Essential items for pooja

*- Picture or image of Ma Durga

*- Durga Sapthashati
*- Fresh water in a kalash, mango leaves, coconut
*- Roli (Vermillion), moli, Akshat (Rice), paan, betle nut (Supari)
*- Cloves, cardamom, sindoor, abir, gulal
*- Dhoop, deepak, matchsticks
*- Flowers
*- Fruits and sweets
*- Panchpatra with small spoon or achmani
*- Asan to sit

Vidhi / Method of puja

* Ghat Sthapna-- Navratri rituals begin with planting barley or wheat kernels called
Jhuwara in a bed of mud on the first day of Navratri. It is watered everyday all through
the nine days of Navratri.

* Make a heap of wheat on a platform then a kalash filled with water and roli is placed
over it. The kalash is wrapped with red cloth and Moli is tied around the kalash's neck. A
coconut is placed on the mouth of kalash and mango tree leaves are placed around the
coconut.

* Now place Durga Ma image on the podium and worship with roli, rice, flowers, belpatr,
sindoor, abhir and gulal. Offer sweets or complete meal to mother goddess.

* Light dhoop and Deepak in front of Ma and perform her aarti. Recite Durga Saptshati or
Devi Kavach and Stuti for invoking protection by Devi.

****************************************************************

FAST (or) VRAT

Navratri Fasting Procedure

* On the festive occasion of Navratri, fast is observed by people for seven or eight days,
depending upon when they want to conduct the Kanchika Pujan (when young girls are
worshipped). The devotees, who have observed fast, would get up early in the morning,
take bath and offer prayers to the deity.

* People follow a specific diet for Navratri, if they haven't observed a nirjal (waterless)
fast. Most people nowadays perform partial fasting.

* They would abstain from non-vegetarian food, alcohol and those dishes that are made
of common salt or any kind of spice. Singhare ka atta (or) kuttu ka atta is used to prepare
rotis or puris, for the fast.

* One may drink beverages like tea, coffee and milk, on Navratri.

* Dishes made of sago and potato is generally consumed by the people, when they
observe fast on Navratri.

* Sendha namak (rock salt) is used instead of common salt, for cooking on the festival.
All fruits and foodstuff made of fruits are eaten during the seven days. Nowadays, ready-
to-eat snacks are available in the stores, especially prepared for Navratri.

* In addition to this, certain restaurants in the northern parts of India would offer special
menu for the people, who have observed fast on Navratri.
* After seven days of fasting, people would break their fast on the eighth day - Ashtami -
by worshipping young girls. The ritual of offering prasad to the young girls is called
Kanchika Pujan or Kanjak.

* As per the tradition, puris (deep fried Indian bread), halwa (sweet dish made of suji) and
Bengal gram are served to the young girls, called upon by the people who have observed
fast.

* After seeking the blessings of the young girls (kanchikayen), the devotees would break
their fast by consuming the prasad (puri, halwa and sabzi) that they have prepared for
them.

* While this is the tradition followed by majority of people, Navratri fast is also broken on
ninth day (Navami), wherein the fast is observed until Ashtami. The same procedure is
followed in that case as well.

========================================================

* KANYA PUJAN (or) KANJAK (or) KUMARI PUJAN (DURGA-ASHTAMI)

During the Navratra especially on the eighth day and ninth day, worship of small girl-
child is customary. The girl child is worshipped with complete devotion, after purifying
them by the chanting of mantras and she is made to seat on a special pedestal. She is
worshipped by offering akshat (rice grains) and by burning incense sticks. She is
worshipped because, according to the philosophy of Striyah Samastastava Devi
Bhedah, women symbolize Mahamaya (The goddess Durga). Even among these a girl
child is considered to be the purest, because of her innocence Hinduism believes in the
universal creative forces to be feminine gender.

The very original force is Mahamaya whose inspiration created the gods and the rest of
the cosmos.All the major and minor energies and forces are represented by various
goddesses. Navratra deity Durga and all her dimensions are believed to be the
manifestations of the same basic inspiration Mahamaya.

Thus, a virgin girl is the symbol of the pure basic creative force according to this
philosophy.

* For acquiring knowledge worshipper should worship a Brahmin girl child.

* For acquiring power he should worship a Kshatriya-girl child.

* For acquiring wealth and prosperity he should worship a girl child belonging to a
Vaishya family.

* For attaining Tantrik-power, Sammohan (hypnotizing) etc.he should worship a shudra-

girl-child
======================================================

Shri Ram Navami or Ram Navami

Shri Ram Navami is a Hindu festival, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama to King
Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya of Ayodhya. Ram is the 7th incarnation of the
Dashavatara of Vishnu.

Rama Navami falls on the ninth day of the shukla paksha, or bright phase of the moon, in
the lunar month of Chaitra (March-April). According to legend, Rama was born at noon.

Rama is the epitome of perfection, the uttama purusha, fulfilling all his duties towards
both
family and subjects. Rama was the first of the four sons of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya.
When it was time for Rama to be made crown-prince, his stepmother, Kaikeyi, got
Dasharatha to send him to the forest for 14 years. His wife Sita and his brother
Lakshmana also accompanied him. In the forest, Sita was kidnapped by Ravana, the
demon king of Lanka. Rama, together with Hanuman and the monkey army, built a bridge
to Lanka, killed Ravana, and brought Sita
back.

It is believed that listening to the story of Rama cleanses the soul. Meditating on the
noble Rama and chanting his name is believed to ease the pains of life and lead one to
moksha, or liberation. It is also common practice to chant the name of Rama while
rocking babies to sleep.
Though Rama Navami is a major festival for Vaishnavites, it is widely celebrated by
worshippers of Shiva, too. It is considered auspicious to undertake a fast on the day in
the name of Rama. The more devout fast for nine days, from Ugadi to Rama Navami. The
objective of the fast is not to ask for special favours of the deity but to seek perfection as
a human being. Devotees perform elaborate pujas and chant the name of Rama.

Temples of Rama have special services and bhajan sessions through the day.

One significant and popular element of the celebration is the Ramayana parayana, a
discourse on the Ramayana, by a pundit or a professional story-teller. It usually lasts
nine days, beginning on Ugadi and ending on Rama Navami. A skilled story-teller who
can liven up the event by weaving in contemporary events attracts massive crowds.

Since Rama is also one of the most sung-about deities in Indian classical music and
literature, week-long (and sometimes, month-long) musical programmes are organised.

Sacred places associated with Rama, like Ayodhya, Ujjain and Rameshwaram, draw tens
of thousands of devotees. In Rameshwaram, thousands take a ritual bath in the sea
before worshipping at the Ramanathaswamy temple.

Many places in North India host fairs in connection with the festival, culminating in
spectacular fireworks on Rama Navami.
This year Ram Navami is celebrated on Saturday, March 28, 2015.

===========================================================

NAVARATRI KATHA

The story associated with Navratri can be found in various Hindu religious texts like
Markandeya Purana, Vamana Purana, Varaha Purana, Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, Devi
Bhagavatam and Kalika Purana.

The story of Navratra is the symbolic message of the fact that however glorious and
powerful the evil become, at the end it is the goodness that wins over all of the evil. The
story is associated with Maa Durga and Mahisasura, the buffalo headed demon.

The story begins from the life of two sons of Danu called Rambha and Karambha who
performed austerities by to gain extreme power and authority. When their prayers
became deeper and austerities became exceptional, the King of the heaven God Indra got
perturbed. Out of fear, he killed Karambha. Rambha, who came to know about his
brothers death, became more stubborn to win over the Gods. He increased the intensity
of his austerities and finally got several boons from gods like great brilliance, beauty,
invincibility in war. He also asked a special wish of not being killed by either humans or
Gods or Asuras.

He then considered himself immortal and started freely roaming in the garden of Yaksha
where he saw a female-buffalo and fell in love with her.

To express his love, Rambha disguised in the form of a male-buffalo and copulated with
the female buffalo. However, soon after that a real male buffalo discovered Rambha
mating with the she-buffalo and killed him. It was due to Rambhas inflated ego that killed
him, out of which he has not asked his death to be spared from the wrath of animals. As
the pyre of Rambha was organized, the female-buffalo, who was copulated with him
jumped into the funeral pyre of Rambha to prove her love. She was pregnant at that time.
Thus, demon came out of the with the head of a buffalo and human body and he was
named Mahisasura (the buffalo headed demon).

Mahishasura was extremely powerful. He defeated the gods and the demons and
acruierd power over the entire world. He even won over the heaven and threw devtas
outside it. He captured the throne of Indra and declared himself to be the the lord of the
gods. The gods led by Brahma approached Vishnu and Shiva and evaluated them of the
situation. In order to save the Gods, the three supreme deities emerged a light of anger,
which combined to the take the shape of a terrible form and this was Durga. All the gods
then granted this Goddess of power with all the supreme weapons they had.

This is why; Durga is called the brilliance of all the Gods.

When the goddess was seen by Mahishasura, he was mesmerized by her beauty. He then
fell in love with her and proposed to marry her. The goddess said she will marry him, if
he defeated her in the battle. Then began a scary and terrible battle between both of then
which continued for nine days.

Finally, on the last day, Durga took the form of Chandika and stood over the chest of
Mahishasura and smashed him down with her foot. She then pierced his neck with her
spear and cut off his head off with her sword.

==================================================

SHARAD NAVRATRI (Ashvin or Winter Navratri )

(Tuesday, October 15 - Friday, October 23, 2015)

Almost all the rituals observed during Sharad Navratri (held in October-November) are
also observed during Vasant Navrati (held in March-April)

=================================================
Navratri is divided into sets of three days to adore three different aspects of the supreme
goddess or goddesses.

** First three days

* Goddess Durga is worshipped during the first three days. The goddess is separated as
a spiritual force called Durga also known as Kali in order to destroy all our impurities.

** Second three days

* Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped during the next three days The Mother is adored
as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing
on her devotees inexhaustible wealth, as she is the goddess of wealth.

** Final three days

* Goddess Saraswathi is worshipped during the last three days. The final set of
three days is spent in worshipping the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. In order to have
all-round success in life, believers seek the blessings of all three aspects of the divine
femininity, hence the nine
nights of worship. Eighth day is traditionally Durgashtami which is big in Bengal. In
some parts of South India, Saraswati puja is performed on the 9th day.
Kanya Pujan :-
During the eight or ninth day, Kanya Poojan, pre-pubescent girls are ceremonially
worshiped.

Ayudh Puja or Shastra Puja :

Ayudha Puja is conducted in many parts of South India on the Mahanavami (Ninth) day
with much fanfare. Weapons, agricultural implements, all kinds of tools, equipments,
machinery and automobiles are decorated and worshipped on this day along with the
worship of Goddess. The work starts afresh from the next day, i.e. the 10th day which is
celebrated as 'Vijaya Dashami'. Many teachers/Schools in south India start teaching
Kindergarten children from that day onwards.

*********************************************************
Ramlila
In North India, as the culmination of the Ramlila which is enacted ceremoniously during
Dussehra, the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghanada are burnt to celebrate
the victory of good (Rama) over evil forces on the 'Vijaya Dashami' day.

During Navratri, some devotees of Durga observe a fast and prayers are offered for the
protection of health and prosperity. Devotees avoid meat, alcoholic drinks, grains, wheat
and onion during this fast. Grains are usually avoided since it is believed that during the
period of Navratri and seasonal change, grains attract and absorb lots of negative
energies from the surrounding and therefore there is a need to avoid eating anything
which are produced from grains for the purification of Navratri to be successful. Navratri
is also a period of introspection and purification, and is traditionally an auspicious and
religious time for starting new ventures.

During this vowed religious observance, a pot is installed (ghatasthapana) at a sanctified

place at home. A lamp is kept lit in the pot for nine days. The pot symbolizes the
universe. The uninterrupted lit lamp is the medium through which we worship the
effulgent Adishakti, i.e. Sree
Durgadevi. During Navratri, the principle of Sree Durgadevi is more activein the
atmosphere.

Navratri is celebrated in a large number of Indian communities. The mother goddess is

said to appear in 9 forms, and each one is worshipped for a day. These nine forms signify
various traits that the goddess influences us with. The Devi Mahatmya and other texts
invoking the Goddess who vanquished demons are cited.

------------------------------------------------------

Tradition of Durga Puja

The idol being immersed on the tenth day of Durga Puja.

Today's most authentic form of the Durga is that of a ten handed goddess modeled out of
clay astride a lion. Each of those hands carry a separate weapon in them except two,
which holds the spear which has been struck into the chest of the demon, Mahishasura.
The four children of the Goddess had also been added to the iconography - Laxmi, the
goddess of wealth, Saraswati, the Goddess of knowledge, Kartik, the God of beauty as
well as warfare and Ganesha, the 'Siddhidata' or the starter of everything in good sense.

The drum-beats are an integral part of the Durga Puja. This special variety of the drum,
known as 'Dhak,' enthralls the hearts of the Calcutta with its majestic rhythm right from
the day of 'Sasthi.' This drum is held on the shoulder with the beating side in the bottom
and is beaten with two sticks, one thick and another thin.

The Durga Puja spans over a period of ten days in case of traditional and household
Pujas, though the main part of it is restricted to four days only. The main Puja, however,
starts on the evening of 'Sasthi', the sixth day after the new moon, generally from
beneath a 'Bel' tree for the
traditional ones. In the wee hours of 'Saptami,' the next day, the 'Pran' or life of the Devi
is brought from a nearby pond or river in a banana tree and established inside the image.
The main puja starts thereafter and the prime time is reached in the 'Sandhikshan,' the
crossover time between Ashtami and Navami. Finally, on 'Dashami,' the tenth day from
the new
moon, the image is immersed in a pond or river.

------------------------------------------

Akal Bodhon
* Lord Ram wanted to get the blessings of Goddess Durga before beginning the war with
Ravana. Therefore he invoked Goddess Durga during Ashwin (October November). This
is why the Durga Puja during October is also known as Akal Bodhon or untimely
invocation.
-------------------------------------------

VIJAY DASHMI
=============
Dasha-Hara is the festival of Victory of Good over Evil. There are many variations to this
feat, that are believed all across India.

(A) Victory of god Rama over Ravana

====================================

On this day in the Treta Yug Lord Shri Ram, the seventh incarnation of Vishnu, killed the
great demon Ravana who had abducted Rama's wife Sita tohis kingdom of Lanka. Rama,
his brother Lakshmana, their follower Hanuman and an army of ninja monkeys fought a
great battle to rescue Sita.

Rama had performed "Chandi Homa" and invoked the blessings of Durga, who blessed
Rama with secret knowledge of the way to kill Ravana. On the day of Ashvin Shukla
Dashami, Rama's party found Sita and defeated Ravana.

Thus it is termed as Vijaya Dashami.

(B) Victory of Durga Mata over Mahishasura

==========================================
Some of the demons, or Asuras, were very powerful and ambitious and continually tried
to defeat the Devas, or Gods , and capture Heaven. One Asura, Mahishasura, in the form
of a buffalo, grew very powerful and created havoc on the earth. Under his leadership,
the Asuras defeated the Devas. The world was crushed under Mahishasura's tyranny, the
Devas joined
their energies into Shakti, a single mass of incandescent energy, to kill Mahishasura.

A very powerful band of lightning emerged from the mouths of Brahma, Vishnu and
Shiva and a young, beautiful female virgin with ten hands appeared. All the Gods gave
their special weapons to her. This Shakti coalesced to form the goddess Durga. Riding
on a lion, who assisted her,
Durga fought Mahishasura. The battle raged for nine days and nights.

Finally on the tenth day of Ashvin shukla paksha, Mahishasura was defeated and killed
by Durga.

Hence Dasha-Hara is also known as Navratri or Durgotsav and is a celebration of Durga's

victory. Durga, as Consort of Lord Shiva, represents two forms of female energy - one
mild and protective and the other fierce and destructive.

=======================================

Almost all the rituals observed during Sharad Navratri

(held in October-November) are also observed during
Vasant Navrati (held in March-April)
=================================================
 SHRI DURGA CHALISA
=====================
NAMO NAMO DURGE SUKH KARANI
NAMO NAMO AMBE DUKH HARANI

I bow to You O Goddess Durga, the bestower of happiness!

I bow to You O Goddess Amba, who Ends all miseries.

NIRANKAR HAI JYOTI TUMHARI,

TIHUN LOK PHAILI UJIYARI.

The radiance of your light is limitless and all pervading and all the

three realms(Earth, Heaven And the Nether World) are enlightened by Thee

SHASHI LALAT MUKH MAHA VISHALA

NETRA LAL BHRIKUTEE VIKARALA

Your face is like the moon and mouth very huge. Your eyes shine with a red

glow and You have a Frightening frown

ROOP MATU KO ADHIK SUHAVE

DARSHA KARATA JANA ATI SUKH PAVE

O Mother. Your look is enchanting, the very sight of which ensures welfare

of the devout
 TUM SANSAR SHAKTI LAYA KEENA
PALANA HEYTU ANNA DHAN DEENA

All the powers of the World repose in Thee and it is You who provides food

and wealth for the World's survival

ANNAPOORNA HUI JAG PALA

TUMHI ADI SUNDARI BALA

Like the feeding Mother Annapoorna, You nurture the whole universe and You

are the one Who appears like the timeless Bala Sundari (young girl of

extreme beauty)

PRALAYAKAL SAB NASHAN HARI

TUM GOWRI SHIV SHANKAR PYARI

At the time of dissolution, it is You, O Mother, who destroys everything.

You are the beloved Consort of Lord Shiva, Gowri (Parvati)

SHIV YOGI TUMHRE GUN GAVEIN

BRAHMA VISHNU TUMHEIN NIT DHYAVEIN

Lord Shiva and all yogis always chant your praise. Brahma, Vishnu and all

other Gods ever meditate on You

ROOP SARASWATI KO TUM DHARA

DEY SUBUDDHI RISHI MUNIN UBARA

You appear in the form of Goddess Saraswati too, to grant wisdom to the

sages and thus ensure their Welfare

DHARYO ROOP NARSIMHA KO AMBA

PRAGAT BHAYI PHAR KAR KHAMBA

O Mother Amba! It was You who appeared in the form of Narsimha, sundering

the pillar

RAKSHA KARI PRAHLAD BACHAYO

HIRANYAYKSH KO SWARGA PATHAYO
Thus You saved Prahlad and Hiranyakashyap also went to Heaven as he was

killed by your Hands

LAKSHMI ROOP DHARO JAG MAHIN

SHREE NARAYAN ANGA SAMAHIN

In the form of Goddess Lakshmi, O Mother, you appear in this world and

repose by the side of Shree Narayan

KSHEER SINDHU MEIN KARAT VILASA

DAYA SINDHU DEEJEY MAN ASA

Dwelling in the ocean of milk, O Goddess, with Lord Vishnu, please fulfill

my desires.

HINGALAJA MEIN TUMHI BHAVANI

MAHIMA AMIT NA JAT BAKHANI

O Bhavani, the famous Goddess of Hingalaja is no one else but You

Yourself. Illimitable is your Glory, defying description

MATANGI DHOOMAWATI MATA

BHUVANESHWARI BAGALA SUKH DATA

You are yourself Matangi and Dhoomavati Mata. It is You who appear as

Bhuvaneshwari and Bagalamukhi Devi to bestow happiness to all

SHREE BHAIRAV TARA JAG TARANI

CHHINN BHAL BHAV DUKH NIVARINI

It is You who redeem the world, appearing in the form of Shree Bhairavi,

Taradevi and Chhinnamasta Devi, and end its sorrows

KEHARI VAHAN SOH BHAVANI

LANGUR VEER CHALAT AGAVANI

Reposing gracefully upon your vehicle, O Goddess Bhavani, You are welcome

by the brave Langour (Lord Hanuman)

KAR MEIN KHAPPAR KHADG VIRAJEY

JAKO DEKH KAL DAR BHAJEY
 When You appear in the form of Goddess Kali, with sword in one hand and a

copal in the other, Even Time flees in panic

SOHE ASTRA AUR TRISHULA

JASE UTHATA SHATRU HIYA SHOOLA

Beholding You, well armed, with a Trident in your hand, the enemy's heart

aches with the sting Of fear

NAGARKOT MEIN TUMHI VIRAJAT

TIHUN LOK MEIN DANKA BAJAT

You also repose in the form of Devi at Nagarkot in Kangara. Thus all the

three realms shudder in the might of your glory

SHUMBH NISHUMBH DAANUJ TUM MARE

RAKTA BEEJ SHANKHAN SANGHARE

You slayed the demons like Shumbh & Nishumb and massacred the thousand

forms of the dreaded Demon Raktabeej

MAHISHASUR NRIP ATI ABHIMANI

JEHI AGH BHAR MAHI AKULANI

When the earth was severely distressed bearing the load of the sins of the

arrogant Mahishasur

ROOP KARAL KALIKA DHARA

SEN SAHIT TUM TIN SAMHARA

You assumed the dreadful form of Goddess Kali and massacred him along with

his army

PARI GAARH SANTANA PAR JAB JAB

BHAYI SAHAY MATU TUM TAB TAB

Thus, whenever the noble saints were distressed, it is You O Mother, who

came to their rescue.

 AMARPURI ARU BASAV LOKA
TAB MAHIMA SAB RAHEY ASHOKA

All the realms including the Amarpuri (divine realm) remain sorrowless and

happy by Your Grace. O Goddess!

JWALA MEIN HAI JYOTI TUMHARI

TUMHEIN SADA POOJEY NAR NARI

It is the symbol of Your glory that is burning brightly at Shree JwalaJi.

All men and women Ever worship You, O Mother!

PREM BHAKTI SE JO YASH GAVE

DUKH DARIDRA NIKAT NAHIN AVE

He who sings Your glory with devotion, love, and sincerity remains beyond

the reach of grief And poverty

DHYAVE TUMHEIN JO NAR MAN LAYI

JANMA MARAN TAKO CHHUTI JAYI

He who meditates upon Your form with concentration goes beyond the cycle

of births and deaths

JOGI SUR MUNI KAHAT PUKARI

JOG NA HO BINA SHAKTI TUMHARI

All the yogis, gods and sages openly declare that without your favor one

can't establish communion with God

SHANKARA ACHARAJ TAP ATI KEENHO

KAM KRODH JEET SAB LEENHO

Shankaracharya had performed once a special penance called Aacharaj and by

virtue of which he had subdued his anger and desire

NISHIDIN DHYAN DHARO SHANKAR KO

KAHU KAL NAHIN SUMIRO TUMKO

He ever worshipped Lord Shankar and never for a moment concentrated his

mind on You
 SHAKTI ROOP KO MARAM NA PAYO
SHAKTI GAYI TAB MAN PACHITAYO

Since He did not realize your immense glory, all His powers waned and then

He repented hitherto

SHARNAGAT HUYI KIRTI BAKHANI

JAI JAI JAI JAGADAMBA BHAVANI

Then He sought refuge in You, chanted Your glory and 'victory, victory,

victory to Thee, O Jagadamba Bhavani'

BHAYI PRASANNA ADI JAGADAMBA

DAYI SHAKTI NAHIN KEEN VILAMBA

Then, O Primal Goddess Jagadamba Ji, You were propitiated and in no time

You bestowed Him with his lost powers

MAUKON MATU KASHTA ATI GHERO

TUM BIN KAUN HAREY DUKH MERO

O Mother! Severe afflictions distress me and no one except Your Honored

Self can provide relief please end my afflictions

ASHA TRISHNA NIPAT SATAVEIN

MOHA MADADIK SAB BINSHAVEIN

Hopes and longings ever torture me. All sorts of passions and lust ever

torment my heart

SHATRU NASH KIJEY MAHARANI

SUMIRON IKCHIT TUMHEIN BHAVANI

O Goddess Bhavani! I meditate only upon you Please kill my enemies O

Queen!

KARO KRIPA HEY MATU DAYALA

RIDDHI SIDDHI DEY KARAHU NIHALA

O Merciful Mother! Show me your favor and make me feel happy by bestowing
 me with all sorts of riches and powers

JAB LAGI JIYUN DAYA PHAL PAUN

TUMHRO YASH MEIN SADA SUNAUN

O Mother! May I be respectable of Your grace as long as I live, ever

recounting the feats of Your Glory to all

DURGA CHALISA JO NAR GAVEY

SAB SUKH BHOG PARAMPAD PAVEY

This way, whoever sings this Durga Chalisa shall ever enjoy all sorts of

pleasures and shall attain the highest state in the end

DEVIDAS SHARAN NIJ JANI

KARAHUN KRIPA JAGDAMB BHAVANI

Deeming Devidas to have sought Your shelter, O Bhavani, grant me Your

favor.

JAI MAA BHAGWATI !

******************************************************************

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Jai Ambe Gauri Aarti

* Jai ambe gaurii maiyaa, Jai shyaamaa gaurii

Nishadin tumako dhyaavat, Hari brahma shivajii
"Glory to you, O divine Mother Gauri, glory to you, O Parvati, who are so rich in maiden
grace (virgin beauty), the object of daily meditation by Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva!"

* Maang sinduur viraajat, Tiko mrig madako

Ujjvala se dauu nainaa, Chandravan niiko
"O Ambe! On your forehead is a resplendent mark of vermilion along with a mark of
musk (signifying good luck). Your twin eyes are bright and your face beautiful as the
moon."

* Kanak samaan kalevar, Raktaambar raaje

 Raktapushp galamaalaa, Kanthahaar saaje
"Your body with a tinge of gold is splendidly dressed in red attire; on your throat lies a
wreath of red blossoms like a beautiful necklace."

* Kehari vaahan raajat, Khadag khappar dhaari

Sur nar muni jana sevat, Tinake dukh haari
"Your vehicle, the lion, is, O Mother in keeping with your splendid form; you bear a sword
and a skull in your hands, and on you attend the gods, men, hermits and your votaries
whose grief you drive away."

* Kaanan kunadal shobhit, Naasaagre motii

Kotik chandra divaakar, Sam raajat jyotii
"You are adorned with rings on your ears and with pearl on the tip of your nose, your
radiance looks as splendid as that of myriad of suns and moons."

* Shumbh nishumbh bidaare, Mahishaasura ghaatii

Dhuumra vilochan nainaa, Nishadin madamaatii
"O slayer of the demon Mahisha, you tore apart the bodies of Shumbha, Nishumbha and
Dhuumravilochana. (In the battle waged against them) your eyes reflected a frenzy of fury
everyday and night."

* Brahmaanii rudraanii, Tum kamalaa raanii

Aagam-nigam bakhaanii, Tum shiv pataraanii
"You are the beloved consort of Brahma, Rudra and Vishnu. The Vedas and the Shastras
describe you as the queen consort of Shiva,"

* Chausath yoginii gaavata, Nritya karat bhairon

Baajat taal mridang, Aur baajat damaruu
"Sixty-four Yoginis chorus your praise and glorify you, while Bhairava (Shiva) dances in
tune to the accompaniment of the sound of tambour (mridanga) and drum (damaru)."

* Tum ho jaga kii maataa, Tum hii ho bhartaa

Bhaktan kii dukh hartaa, Sukh sampatti kartaa
"You are mother of the universe, its sustainer, reliever of your devotees' affliction and
bestower of happiness and prosperity."

* Bhujaa chaar ati shobhit, Var mudraa dhaarii

Man Vaanchit phal paavat, Sevat nar naarii
"The four arms you have adorned your person, while the hand raised in benediction
reveals your benign aspect. Those among men and women who wait on you and worship
you have all their cherished wishes ever fulfilled."

* Kanchan thaal viraajat, Agaru kapuur baatii

Maalaketu mein raajat, Kotiratan jyotii
"In a golden platter are beautifully laid aloe and camphor, both of which have lighted (to
be waved before you); in he radiance of your forehead is reflected the splendour of a
myriad gems."

* Jai ambe gaurii maiyaa, Jai shyaamaa gaurii

Nishadin tumako dhyaavat, Hari brahma shivajii

"Glory to you, O divine Mother Gauri, glory to you, O Parvati, who are so rich in maiden
grace (virgin beauty), the object of daily meditation by Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva!"

******************************

**********************************

Shree Durga Chaalisa

Namo Namo Durge Sukh Karni

Namo Namo Ambe Dukh Harni

Nirankar Hai Jyoti Tumhari

Tihu Lok Faili Ujiyari

Shashi Lalat Mukh Mahavishala

Netra Lal Brukuti Vikrala

Roop Matu Ko Adhik Suhavey

Darash Karat Jan Ati Sukhpavay

Tum Sansar Shakti Lay Kina

Paalan Hetu An Dhan Dina
 Annpoorna Hui Jag Paala
Tum Hi Aadi Sundari Bala

Pralaykaal Sab Naashan Haari

Tum Gauri Shiv Shankar Pyari

Shiv Yogi Tumharey Gun Gavey

Brahma Vishnu Tumhe Nit Dhyavey

Roop Saraswati Ko Tum Dhaara

De Subuddhi Rishi Muni Ubaara

Dhara Roop Narsinha Ko Amba

Pargat Bhayee Phad Kar Khamba

Raksha Kar Prahlad Bachayo

Hirnakush Ko Swarg Pathayo

Lakshmi Roop Dharo Jag Mahi

Shri Narayan Ang Samahi

Shirsindhu Mein Karat Vilaasa

Dayasindhu Deejay Man Aasa

Hinglaaj Mein Tumhi Bhavani

Mahima Amit Na Jaat Bakhani

Maatangi Dhumavati Mata

Bhunvenshwari Bagla Sukh Daata

Shri Bhairav Tara Jag Taarini

 Shin Bhaal Bhav Dukh Nivarini

Kehar Vaahan Soh Bhavani

Laangur Veer Chalat Agvaani

Kar Mein Khappar Khadag Virajey

Jaako Dekh Kaal Dar Bhaajey

Sohay Astra Aur Trishula

Jaatey Uthat Shatru Hiya Shoola

Nagarkot Mein Tumhi Birajat

Tihu Lok Mein Danka Baajat

Shumbh Nishumbh Daanav Tum Maarey

Rakt Beej Shankhan Sanhaarey

Mahishasur Narp Ati Abhimaani

Jehi Ag Bhaar Mahi Akulani

Roop Karaal Kali Ko Dhaara

Sen Sahit Tum Tihi Sanhaara

Pari Bheed Santan Par Jab Jab

Bhayee Sahay Maatu Tum Tab Tab

Amar Puri Auron Sab Loka

Tab Mahima Sab Rahey Ashoka

Jwaala Mein Hai Jyoti Tumhari

Tumhe Sada Pujey Nar Nari
Prem Bhakti Se Jo Jas Gaavey
Dukh Daaridra Nikat Nahi Aavey

Dhyavey Tumhe Jo Nar Man Laai

Janam Maran Taako Chuti Jaai

Jogi Sur-Muni Kahat Pukari

Yog Na Ho Bin Shakti Tumhari

Shankar Aacharaj Tap Kino

Kaam Aro Krodh Jiti Sab Lino

Nishdin Dhyan Dharo Shankar Ko

Kaahu Kaal Nahi Sumiro Tumko

Shakti Roop Ko Maram Na Paayo

Shakti Gayee Tab Man Pachtaayo

Sharnagat Hui Kirti Bakhaani

Jai Jai Jai Jagdamb Bhavani

Bhayi Prasan Aadi Jagdamba

Dai Shakti Nahi Kin Vilamba

Moko Maatu Kasht Ati Gero

Tum Bin Kaun Harey Dukh Mero

Aasha Trishna Nipat Satavey

Ripu Murakh Mohi Ati Dar Paavey
 Shatru Naash Keejay Maharani
Sumiro Ikchit Tumhe Bhavani

Karo Kripa Hey Maatu Dayala

Ridhi Sidhi Dey Karahu Nihala

Jab Lagi Jiyo Dayafal Paau

Tumharo Jas May Sada Sunau

Durga Chalisa Jo Koi Gaavey

Sab Sukh Bhog Param Pad Paavey

Devidas Sharan Nij Jaani

Karahu Kripa Jagdamb Bhavani

Jai Ambe Jai Jai Durge

************************************************************

LEGENDS

1. Creation Of Goddess Durga

Goddess Durga represents a united front of all Divine forces against the negative forces
of evil and wickedness. The gods in heaven decided to create an all-powerful being to kill
the demon king Mahishasur who was ready to attack them. At that very moment a stream
of lightning dazzled forth from the mouths of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh and it turned
into a beautiful, magnificent woman with ten hands. Then all the gods furnished her with
their special weapons. The image of Durga, the Eternal Mother destroying the demon,
Mahishasur is symbolic of the final confrontation of the spiritual urge of man with his
baser passions.

=======================================
2.Pandavas

As per our great epic Mahabharat, Pandavas after wandering in the forest for 12 years,
hung their weapons on a Shami tree before entering the court of king Virat to spend the
last one year in disguise. After the completion of that year on Vijayadashmi the day of
Dassera they brought down the weapons from the Shami tree and declared their true
identity. Since that day the exchange of Shami leaves on Dassera day became symbols
of good, will and victory.

============================================

3.Lord Rama
This festival has immense mythological significance. As per Ramayan, Ram did "chandi-
puja and invoked the blessings of Durga to kill Ravana, the ten-headed king of Lanka
who had abducted Seeta and had charmed life. Durga divulged the secret to Ram how he
could kill Ravana. Then after vanquishing him, Ram with Seeta and Laxman returned
victorious to his kingdom of Ayodhya on Diwali day.

=========================================

4.Kautsa
Kautsa, the young son of Devdatt, insisted on his guru Varatantu to accept
"gurudakshina", after finishing his education. After lots of persistence his Guru, finally
asked for 14 crore gold coins, one crore for each of the 14 sciences he taught Kautsa.
Kautsa went to king Raghuraj, who was known for his genorisity and was an ancestor of
Rama. But just at that time he had emptied all his coffers on the Brahmins, after
performing the Vishvajit sacrifice. So, the king went to Lord Indra and asked for the gold
coins. Indra summoned Kuber, the god of wealth. Indra told Kuber, "Make a rain of gold
coins fall on the "shanu" and "apati" trees round Raghuraja's city of Ayodhya." The rain
of coins began to fall. The king Raghu gave all the coins to Kautsa, who gave 14 crores
gold coins to his guru. The remaining coins were lavishly distributed to the people of
Ayodhya city. This happened on the day of Dussehra. In remembrance of this event the
custom is kept of looting the leaves of the "apati" trees and people present each other
these leaves as "sone" (gold).

*****************************************************************

NAVRATRA -VRAT- RECIPES

=======================
(1) KUTTU KI PURI
==================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 2 cup kuttu ka atta

* 4 potato (alu)
* 1/2 tsp rock salt (sendha namak)
* 1/2 tsp black pepper powder (kali mirch)
* clarified butter (ghee) for frying

Method:--
----------

* Boil and mash potato.

* Now mix salt, atta, kali mirch and alu and knead into dough.
* Make small balls of the dough and roll each into small puris.
* Heat ghee in a pan.
* Fry each puri in ghee.
* When cooked on one side turn it and cook on the other side also until it turns light
brown.
* Serve them hot.

***************************************************

(2) SINGHADE KA HALWA

======================

Ingredients:--
----------------

* 500 gm hare singhade (fresh water caltrop)

* 125 gm sugar
* 100 gm thickened milk (mawa)
* 1 tbsp clarified butter (ghee)
* 1 cup milk (doodh)
* 1/4 tsp cardamom powder (elaichi)
* 5-6 cashew nut (kaju)
* 5-6 almond (badam)
* few drops of yellow colour (peela rang)

Method:--
---------

* Peel singhade and grate them.

* Fry singhade in a pan with ghee.
* Grate thickened milk and add to the above until it becomes light brown.
* Boil milk, sugar and 1 cup milk in a container.
* Add thickened milk and stir continuously until it thickens.
* Then add 2-3 drops of colour and remove it from the flame.
* Garnish with cardamom powder and finely chopped almond and cashew nuts. * Serve
hot.

***************************************************

(3) SINGHARE KE PAKORE

=======================

Ingredients:--
----------------

* Mango powder (Amchur)

* 1/2 cup chestnut flour
* 10-12 small squares of pumpkin
* Oil for frying
* 2 potatoes, cut into thin round slices
* 11/2 tsp salt

Method:--
----------

* Mix the flour and salt.

* Then slowly mix in water to make a smooth paste.
* Dip the slices of potatoes and pumpkin in this paste, one by one.
* Heat up oil in a deep frying pan.
* Deep fry the potatoe and pumpkin slices in the oil.
* Sprinkle with some chaat masala or amchur powder and serve immediately.

****************************************************

(4) KOTU ALOO PAKORA

=====================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 1 cup kotu ka atta (buckwheat up flour)

* 1/4 cup finely cut coriander leaves
* 1/2 tbsp black pepper powder
* ghee or vegetable oil for frying
* 3 medium sized potatoes (boiled whole till half-cooked)
* 1/2 tsp sendha namak (rock salt) or to taste

Method:--
----------

* Combine the flour, salt, pepper and coriander in round dish and mix well.
* Mix in water and cream into a smooth batter.
* Cream the batter until it is of cream consistency.
* Cover and keep aside for about 20 minutes.
* When the potatoes are cool enough, take off and slice each one into diagonal slices.
* Heat up enough ghee or oil for deep-frying in a kadhai over moderate heat.
* Put few slices of potato into the batter and cover them completely.
* One at a time, lower each slice of batter-coated potato into the hot oil.
* Fry as many slices as will float on the surface of the oil without touching.
* Fry on both sides until reddish gray and crisp.
* Serve hot as the fitters soften as they cool.

****************************************************

(5) VRAT KE CHAWAL

===================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 2 cloves
* 3 cup water
* 2 cardamoms
* 30 gm ghee
* 2 tsp kala namak
* 1 tsp cumin seeds
* 1/2 tsp chilli powder
* 125 gms samwat ke chaawal
* Coriander leaves for garnishing
* 1 big size potato, diced
* stick, tiny piece

Method:--
----------

* Heat up ghee, mix in cumin seeds, cloves, cardamoms and cinnamon.

* When slightly coloured, add potato and samwat ke chaawal.
* Stir-fry till they look a bit fried.
* Mix in salt, chilli powder and water, and bring to a boil.
* Lower the flame and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes or till cooked through and
the water is absorbed.
* Decorate with corinder leaves and serve hot.

*****************************************************

(6) SUKHI ARBI

===============

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 5-6 boiled arbi

* 2-3 green chilies
* 1/2 tsp mango powder
* 1/2 tsp red chilly powder
* kadi pata
* 3 tbsp oil
* salt to taste

Method:--
----------

* Put oil in a pan.

* Heat up the oil and mix in kadi pata, green chillies and red chilly powder and mix it well.
* Now mix in the boiled arbi cut in small cubes and fry.
* When the arbi is half cooked mix in salt and mango powder.
* Mix well.
* When the arbi looks little crispy and golden brown turn the gas off.

**************************************************

(7) SUKHE ALOO

===============

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 1/2 tsp mango powder

* 3 tbsp oil
* salt to taste
* kadi pata
* 5-6 boiled potatoes
* 2-3 green chilies
* 1/2 tsp red chilly powder
Method:--
----------

* Put oil in a pan.

* Heat up the oil and mix in kadi pata, green chilies and red chilly powder and mix it well.
* Now mix in the boiled potatoes cut in small cubes and fry the potatoes in the pan.
* When the potatoes are half cooked mix in salt and mango powder.
* Mix well.
* When the potatoes look little crispy and golden brown turn the gas off.

*******************************************************

(8) KACHCHE KELE KI CHAAT

=========================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 4 raw banana (kachche kele)

* 4 tblsp each of chilly sauce and meethi chutney
* 1 tsp chat masala
* oil for frying
* 1 tsp chopped coriander

Method:--
----------

* Peel banana and cut fine slices of it like that of chips.

* Dip them in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
* Heat oil in a pan and deep fry all the banana slices until they turn golden brown. Keep
them aside.
* Now mix chilly and meethi chutney with the chips well and place them in a serving dish.
* Garnish with coriander and sev.
* Sprinkle some chat masala on the top and serve.

********************************************************

(9) KADDU KA RAITA

===================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 1/2 cup pumpkin (kashiphal, kaddu)

* 2 cup curd (dahi)
* 1/4 tsp salt (namak)
* 1/4 tsp rock salt (kala namak)
* 1/2 tsp mustard (raai) powder
* 1/2 tsp cumin powder (jeera)

Method:--
----------

* Grate kashiphal (kaddu) and boil in 1/4 cup water at low flame.
* When water dries remove it from the gas and let it cool.
* Beat curd and mix all the ingredients along with kaddu (pumpkin).
* Serve it chilled.

************************************************

(10) KELE KI BARFI

===================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 4 large ripe banana (pake kele)

* 11/2 cup milk (doodh)
* 2 cup sugar
* 2 tblsp clarified butter (ghee)
* 75 gm coconut (nariyal)
* 1/2 cup crushed walnut (akhrot)

Method:--
----------

* Peel banana and mash them.

* Now cook mashed banana along with milk in a pan until milk dries up.
* Now add butter and stir continuously till it turns brown in colour.
* Now add sugar, grated coconut and walnut and stir.
* Remove it from the flame.
* Grease a plate with butter and spread the mixture in the plate.
* Its thickness should be 1/2.
* When it settles to be cut in pieces, cut barfi in desired shape.
* Garnish with dry fruits and serve.

**************************************************

(11) KHUSKHUS ALOO

===================
Ingredients:--
---------------

* 3 green chillies
* 6 potatoes, peeled, cubed
* salt to taste
* 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
* Cut coriander leaves
* 3 dry red chillies
* 2 tbsp khuskhus roasted
* 3 tblsp oil
* 1/2 cup water

Method:--
----------

* Grind the roasted khuskhsu along with the green chillies and a few tblsp of water to a
very fine paste.
* Keep aside.
* Heat up half of the oil in a pot for 2 minute till very hot.
* Shallow fry the potatoes in batches on medium heat up till they are lightly browned.
* Heat up the remaining oil in the same pan.
* Mix in the whole dry red chillies and turmeric powder.
* Fry briefly.
* Now mix in the khuskhus paste and fry again on low heat up for 5 minutes till the oil
has left the sides of the pan.
* Add the fried potatoes and mix well.
* Add water and salt.
* Stir, cover and keep on low heat up for 15 minutes till the potatoes are soft.
* Decorate with cut fresh coriander.
* Serve hot.

********************************************************

(12) BANANA CHIPS

==================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* oil for deep frying

* 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
* salt according to taste
* 5-6 raw bananas
Method:--
---------

* Take off and put bananas in plenty of salted iced water.

* Slice bananas with a chip slicer into water, mix in in turmeric.
* Keep for 10 minutes, remove out water fully.
* Spread out on a kitchen cloth to take off moisture.
* Heat up oil in a wok till smoky.
* Fry banana slices in one-layer batches for a minute or two or until crisp.
* Lift chips out with slotted spoon and remove on paper towels.
* Sprinkle with salt before serving.

***************************************************

(13) KACHCHE KELE KE KOFTE

===========================

Ingredients:--
----------------

* 250g raw bananas

* 200g potatoes
* 200g tomato puree
* 4 cloves(laung)
* 1 cinnamon stick
* 2-3 green cardamom
* 2 tsp cumin seed
* 3 tsp pepper corns
* 1 tsp Ginger paste
* 1 tbsp ginger juliennes
* 3 green chillies
* 1 tbsp desi ghee (clarified butter)
* Sendha namak(Rock salt)

Method:--

KOFTE
--------

* Boil the raw bananas and the potatoes till done.

* Peel the raw bananas and the potatoes.
* Mash the two together and add rock salt to taste and mix well it should be smooth like a
dough.
* Divide the mixture into 12 parts and roll into smooth balls deep fry the balls in hot oil or
desi ghee and set aside.

GRAVY
------
* Dry roast the cloves, cinnamon stick, cumin seeds, pepper corns and cardamoms.
* Remove from pan and allow to cool slightly.
* Coarsely grind the spices.
* Heat the ghee and ad the ginger paste.
* Saute the ginger paste and add the tomato puree.
* Add half the ground spices and 1 cup water and bring to a boil.
* Simmer for 4-5 minutes.
* Add the ginger juliennes, remaining ground spices, slit green chilies.
* Season with rock salt and pour over the prepared koftas
* Serve hot.

****************************************************

(14) ARBI FRIED

================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 1/4 tsp ajwain

* chilli powder to taste
* rock salt to taste
* 2-3 green chillies
* a pinch of mango powder
* 1/2 kg arbi
* 1/4 tsp coriander powder
* 2 tbsp ginger

Method:--
----------

* Boil the arbi.

* Cool, take off and slice each into two.
* Heat up the oil and fry the cut arbi till slightly browned.
* Mix in 1 tbsp oil and heat up in a wok.
* Meanwhile make a paste of ginger and green chillies.
* Mix in the paste to the heated oil and stir fry for a few minutes.
* Mix in the fried arbi and stir fry on a slow fire.
* Simultaneously mix in salt, coriander powder, mango powder, ajwain and mix well.

***********************************************

(15) ALOO PULAO

================
Ingredients:--
---------------

* 1 big size potato diced in small pieces

* 1 tsp cumin seeds
* 1 cup samwat rice
* 2 tbsp ghee
* 2 cloves
* 2 tsp rock salt (kala namak)
* 2 green cardamom
* a tiny piece of cinnamon
* green coriander to garnish
* 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
* 3 cup water

Method:--
---------

* Heat up ghee in a pot.

* Mix in cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom and cinnamon.
* When they give off fragrance, mix in potato and rice.
* Stir-fry to a light brown color.
* Mix in rock salt, chilli powder and water and boil.
* Cover the pot and let it simmer (boil slowly at low temperature) on low flame for about
15 minutes.
* Decorate with green coriander.
* Serve hot.

*************************************************

(16) KACHCHE KELE KI SABZI

===========================

Ingredients:--
----------------

* 2 Raw Bananas (peeled & chopped)

* 1 tsp. Coriander Leaves (chopped)
* 1/2 tsp Arrowroot Powder
* 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
* 1 stalk Curry Leaves
* 1/2 tsp Cumin Seeds
* 1 Green Chili (slit)
* 1 tsp Lemon Juice
* 1 tbsp Curd
* Salt to taste
* 1 tbsp Oil

Method:--
----------

* Put banana pieces in a bowl of salted water.

* Let them stand for some time.
* Heat some water in a pan and add banana pieces to the boiling water.
* Add a pinch of turmeric and let the water boil until pieces are tender but not mushy.
* Drain and keep the pieces aside to cool a little.
* Add curd, turmeric and salt to banana pieces, and mix gently.
* Heat oil in a heavy pan; add cumin and curry leaves and allow it to splutter.
* Now add banana pieces and 1/4 cup of water to the above.
* Cover the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
* Sprinkle arrowroot powder to the above-made dish and pour lemon juice over it.
* Stir well to blend.
* Garnish the sabzi with coriander leaves.
* Kachhe Kele Ki Sabzi is ready to savor.

***************************************************

(17) LAUKI KI KHEER

====================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 1 cup grated lauki/ghia/doodhi(bottle gourd)

* 1 cup sugar
* 1 litre milk
* tsp cardamom powder
* 2tbsp mixed dry fruits

Method:--
---------

* Bring the milk to boil in a heavy bottom pan.

* Reduce for 20 minutes on low flame and stir occasionally.
* Add the grated lauki and cook till the milk thickens.
* Add the sugar and cook for 5 more minutes.
* Add the dry fruits and the cardamom powder and serve.

*************************************************

(18) LAUKI KA HALWA

====================
Ingredients:--
---------------

* 4 cups grated bottle gourd (lauki/ doodhi/ghia)

* 1 cup milk
* 2cup sugar
* cup desi ghee ( clarified butter)
* 1tbsp kishmish (raisins)
* 1 tsp magaz ( melon seeds)

Method:--
----------

* In a heavy bottom pan, bring the grated bottle gourd and milk to a boil.
* Reduce the flame and cook till almost done.
* Add the sugar and the ghee and cook further till the ghee leaves the side of the pan.
* While cooking, keep stirring continuously to avoid burning.
* Add the kishmish and chirojee and mix well. Can be served hot and cold.

************************************************

(19) BHARWAN LAUKI

===================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* kg Bottle gourd (lauki/ghia/doodhi)

* 200g paneer
* 200g boiled potatoes
* 2cloves
* 1 cinnamon powder
* 2 cardamoms
* 1 cup yoghurt
* cup cream
* 50g khoya (thickened milk)
* 50g almonds
* 1 tsp black pepper powder
* 2 tbsp desi ghee (clarified butter)
* Rock salt to taste (sendha namak)

Method:--
----------

* Peel the bottle gourd and cut into thick slices.

* Carefully cut out the pith of each slice so that you have clean circles left with you.
* Heat the ghee in a pan and shallow fry the rings for 1 minute on each side and set
aside.
* Grate the paneer and the boiled potatoes.
* Season with salt and pepper and stuff inside the gourd rings.
* Shallow fry the stuffed rings till golden on each side.
* In the same ghee add the cloves, cardamom and cinnamon .
* Add the khoya and saute for 1 minute on reduced flame.
* Add the beaten yoghurt and cook stirring continuously till it starts simmering.
* Add 1cup water and bring to a boil.
* Allow to simmer for4-5 minutes till it thickens a little.
* Add the cream and season with salt and pepper.
* Remove from fire and add the golden bottle gourd rings.
* Serve hot.

*************************************************

(20) LAUKI KI BURFI

=====================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 4 cups grated bottle gourd (lauki/ doodhi/ghia)

* 1 cup milk
* 2cup sugar
* 250g khoya (thickened milk)
* 1 tbsp chironjee (sunflower seeds)
* 1 tsp magaz ( melon seeds)

Method:--
----------

* Boil the grated gourd with the milk in a heavy bottomed pan.
* Reduce the flame and cook till the milk has almost evaporated.
* Keep stirring frequently to avoid burning.
* Add the sugar and cook further till the mixture has thickened a little.
* Add the khoya and mix well.
* Remove from flame and pour in a well greased tray.
* Smoothen the top level and garnish with chironjee and magaz.
* Press the top level lightly and allow to cool.
* Refrigerate for 1 hour.
* Cut into squares and serve.

************************************
(21) STUFFED TOMATOES
======================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 4 medium sized tomatoes

* 200g boiled potatoes
* 100g paneer (cottage cheese)
* 1 tbsp desi ghee (clarified butter)
* 1 tsp finely chopped green chilies
* 1 tsp finely chopped coriander leaves
* tsp amchur powder (dry mango powder)
* tsp black pepper powder
* 1 tsp sendha namak ( rock salt)

Method:--
----------

* Cut off the top of the tomatoes and scoop out the seeds and pulp to get a cavity. Set
aside.
* Grate the paneer and the boiled potatoes.
* Mix in all the other ingredients.
* Heat the ghee in a pan and add the mixture.
* Saute for 3-4 minutes stirring continuously.
* Cool the mixture and stuff in the tomatoes.
* Grill or bake in a preheated oven at 200 degree centigrade for 10 mins.
* Alternatively you can shallow fry in 1tbsp till the tomatoes are cooked but firm.

********************************************

(22)SABOODANA KHICHDI
======================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 1 cup Saboodana (sago)

* 1 medium sized potato
* 1 cup chopped tomatoes
* cup peanuts
* 1tbsp chopped coriander
* 1tsp chopped green chilies
* tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
* Rock salt (sendha namak)
* 1 tbsp desi ghee
Method:--
---------

* Soak the saboodana for 2 hrs.

* Wash the saboodana well in running water till all the starch is washed off.
* Strain in a sieve and set aside for 2 hrs. for all the water to drain away.
* Peel the potato and cut into small dices.
* Heat the ghee in a pan and add the jeera.
* Allow the jeera to splutter and add the green chilies.
* Saute for 5-10 seconds and add the potatoes.
* Fry the potatoes and cook till half done and add the peanuts.
* Saute till the peanut is also done.
* Add the tomates and cover and cook f04 5 minutes till the tomatoes are cooked.
* Add the drained saboodana and salt and toss well till the sabodana turns transparent
(almost 4-5 mins.)
* Serve hot garnished with chopped coriander.

**********************************************

(23) CUCUMBER RAITA

====================

Ingredients:--
--------------

* 250g Yoghurt
* 1 tsp sugar
* 1 tsp rock salt (sendha namak)
* tsp roasted cumin powder( bhuna jeera powder)
* 1 cucumber

Method:--
----------

* Pass the yoghurt through a sieve to get extra smooth yoghurt.

* Add the sugar and salt and mix well.
* Peel the cucumber and grate it.
* Add the grated cucumber to the yoghurt and mix well.
* Cool and serve garnished with the roasted cumin powder.

*************************************************

(24) NARIYAL KE LADDOO

=======================
Ingredients:--
----------------

* 250g Desiccated coconut

* 250g khoya ( thickened milk)
* 300g powdered sugar
* cup milk
* tsp cardamom powder

Method:--
----------

* Grate or crumble the khoya.

* Heat the milk and add the khoya and cook on slow heat for 3-4 mins.
* Add 200g desiccated coconut and remove from fire mix well.
* Allow to cool a little and add the sugar.
* Divide the mixture into 12 parts.
* Shape each part into balls and roll in the remaining desiccated coconut.
* Cool and serve.

********************************************************

(25) KUTTU KI KADHI

====================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 1 cup Kuttu ka atta (buckwheat flour)

* 2 cup Yoghurt
* 1 large potato cut into small dices
* 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
* 2 green chilies finely chopped
* Desi ghee (clarified butter) or groundnut oil to fry
* 2 cup water
* Rock salt (sendha namak ) to taste

Method:--
---------

* Mix the potato dices with 1 cup kuttu ka atta and tsp salt.
* Add 2 tbsp water and mix well to make pakoras (dumplings).
* Heat sufficient oil in a wok or kadhai to deep fry the dumplings.
* Put marble sized dumplings in the oil and deep fry till light golden.
* Mix the yoghurt and cup kuttu ka atta with 2 cup water and mix well.
* Heat 1tbsp oil in a pan and add the cumin seeds.
* Allow to splutter and add the chopped green chilies.
* Saute fot 1 minute and add the yoghurt mix.
* Bring to a boil stirring continuously.
* Reduce the flame and allow to simmer for 8-10 mins.
* Add the potato dumplings and simmer for 3-4 mins.
* Add salt to taste and serve garnished with coriander leaves.

*************************************************

(26) STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE

=========================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 500g strawberries
* 350 ml low fat yoghurt
* 400ml apple juice
* Crushed ice

Method:--
----------

* Place all the ingredients in the blender and process until smooth.
* Serve in tall glasses.

****************************************

(27) PHALAHARI KADHAI PANEER

=============================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 250g paneer (cottage cheese)

* 200g tomato puree
* 4 cloves
* 1 cinnamon stick
* 2-3 green cardamom
* 2 tsp cumin seed
* 3 tsp pepper corns
* 2 tomatoes
* 1 tsp Ginger paste
* 1 tbsp ginger juliennes
* 3 green chillies
* 1 tbsp desi ghee (clarified butter)
* Sendha namak(Rock salt)
Method:--
----------

* Cut the paneer into 1 cubes.

* Cut each tomato into 8 parts and deseed.
* Slit the green chilies.
* Dry roast the cloves, cinnamon stick, cumin seeds, pepper corns and cardamoms.
* Remove from pan and allow to cool slightly.
* Coarsely grind the spices.
* Heat the ghee and add the ginger paste.
* Saute the ginger paste and add the tomato puree.
* Add half the ground spices and 1 cup water and bring to a boil.
* Add the paneer cubes and allow to simmer for5-6 mins.
* Add the tomatoes and simmer for 2-3 mins.
* Add the ginger juliennes, remaining ground spices, slit green chilies.
* Season with rock salt and serve hot.

*******************************************************

(28) ALOO TIKKI

================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 250g potatoes
* 100g paneer (cottage cheese)
* 2tsp finely chopped green chilies
* 2tsp chopped raisins
* 2tsp chironjee (sunflower seeds)
* Sendha namak (rock salt ) to taste
* Desi ghee or Groundnut oil to shallow fry

Method:--
----------

* Boil the potatoes. Peel and mash the potatoes till smooth.
* Add sendha namak and mix well. Divide into 12 equal parts.

For filling-

* Grate the paneer and mix in the green chilies, chopped green chilies, raisins and
sunflower seeds.
* Divide into 12 equal parts.
* Flatten each part of the potato mix on your palm.
* Fill in one part of paneer mix and fold in from all sides.
* Flatten in the shape of a patty.
* Heat the ghee in a pan.
* Shallow fry the pattice in medium hot oil till golden.
* Serve hot with coriander chutney or lemon slices.

**********************************************************

(29) SABUDANA CUTLETS

======================

Ingredients:--
---------------

* 1cup sago (saboodana)

* 400g potatoes
* 2tbsp chopped coriander
* 2tsp chopped green chilies
* Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
* Groundnut oil or desi ghee (clarified butter)to shallow fry

Method:--
-----------

* Soak the saboodana (sago) in water for 30 mins.

* Drain and set aside.
* Boil the potatoes till done. Peel and mash fine.
* Add the soaked saboodanan, green chilies, coriander and salt to the potatoes and mix
well.
* Divide the mixture into 16 equal parts.
* Roll our each part into a log or a patty.
* Shallow fry in medium hot oil till golden.
* Serve with coriander chutney or meethi chutney.