| April 13, 2021 | IANS - New Delhi |
Considered to be an important nine-night-celebration for the Hindu community around the world, Chaitra Navratri, much like Sharad or Maha Navratri, is dedicated to the nine different forms of Goddess Durga, collectively known as ‘Navdurga’. Each of these nine forms or avatars are worshipped every day: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Katyayani, Kaalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri.
This year, Chaitra Navratri will begin April 13 and continue till April 22. According to the Hindu calendar, it is celebrated during the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. Per the Gregorian calendar, Chaitra Navratri falls in March or April..
Day 1: April 13 — Pratipada
Day 2: April 14 — Dwitiya
Day 3: April 15 — Tritiya
Day 4: April 16 — Chaturthi
Day 5: April 17 — Panchami
Day 6: April 18 — Shasthi
Day 7: April 19 — Saptami
Day 8: April 20 — Annapurna Ashtami, Sandhi Puja
Day 9: April 21 — Rama Navami
Day 10: April 22 — Dashami
Unarguably, Navratri is one the longest Hindu festivals celebrated across the country. But, not a lot of people know that it is celebrated five times a year, in different seasons. So, while there is Chaitra Navratri, there are also Ashadha Navratri, Sharada Navratri, and the Paush/Magha Navratri. Of these, it is the Sharada Navratri celebrated at the onset of autumn, and the Chaitra Navratri in spring, which are most important.
Navratris always begin with the auspicious ritual of Ghatasthapana or Kalash Sthapana. Dedicated devotees of the Goddess Supreme Durga, observe a fast for nine consecutive days, and pray for health, forgiveness and prosperity.
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