INDIA: The joyous festival of Navratri is in full swing, and today we celebrate the auspicious occasion of Navratri Maha Ashtami. It’s a day when the devotees intensify their devotion, and the air is filled with the sounds of hymns and the fragrance of incense. As we bask in the divine aura of this day, let’s explore the essence and traditions associated with Navratri Maha Ashtami.
The essence of Navratri Maha Ashtami: an aesthetic splendour
Navratri, which means ‘nine nights,’ is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her various avatars. The festival spans nine nights and ten days, celebrating the victory of good over evil. Maha Ashtami falls on the eighth day of this grand celebration, and it holds a special place in the hearts of devotees.
On this day, the goddess is believed to be at the peak of her divine power, and the atmosphere resonates with spiritual energy. Devotees believe that worshipping her on Maha Ashtami brings blessings, removes obstacles, and ensures the triumph of righteousness.
What makes Maha Ashtami truly enchanting is the visual spectacle that accompanies it. Temples and homes are adorned with colorful flowers, vibrant Rangoli (decorative designs made with colored powders), and an array of traditional decorations. Devotees dress in their finest traditional attire, symbolizing their reverence and love for the goddess.
Rituals and Traditions
As the day unfolds, devotees observe a range of rituals and customs.
Kanya Pujan: One of the most cherished customs of Maha Ashtami is the Kanya Pujan, where young girls, usually nine in number, symbolising the nine forms of Durga, are worshipped. This ritual celebrates the purity and divine energy embodied by young girls.
Havan and Aarti: Elaborate havans and aartis are conducted in temples and homes. The atmosphere is charged with incense and the sounds of mantras, creating a spiritual ambience that is truly enchanting.
Fasting: Many devotees observe fasts on Maha Ashtami. It’s a way of purifying the body and mind, showing dedication to the goddess, and preparing for the festivities of the day.
Dance and music: The night of Maha Ashtami often witnesses energetic Garba and Dandiya dances. People come together, dressed in traditional attire, to dance and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Navratri.
The divine Aarti: The evening Aarti is another poignant moment of Maha Ashtami. Devotees gather at temples, singing bhajans and hymns in praise of Goddess Durga. The Aarti, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of bells and conch shells, creates an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy.
Lighting of lamps: Rows of earthen lamps are lit in homes to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and the dispelling of ignorance.
A time for togetherness
Navratri is not just a religious festival; it’s also a time for families and communities to come together. People exchange greetings, visit each other’s homes, and share delicious, homemade traditional dishes.
Navratri Maha Ashtami is a day to bask in the beauty and grace of the divine feminine. It’s a reminder of the power that lies within each of us and the strength that can be drawn from devotion and unity.
As the lamps are lit and the prayers are offered, we are reminded that goodness will always triumph over darkness, and the radiance of the goddess will guide us through life’s journey.
Let us embrace the teachings of Navratri—the victory of good over evil, the significance of inner strength, and the joy of coming together as a community. Happy Navratri Maha Ashtami 2023! May it be a day of beauty, light, and divine blessings for all.
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