Navratri
In this blog we are going to understand Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri. Also, we will see difference between chaitra navratri and sharad navratri.
Navratri holds a deep-rooted tradition for all of us, carrying significant religious significance. It is widely recognized as one of the largest Hindu festivals celebrated with immense zeal and enthusiasm across the nation. However, not many are aware that Navratri is observed during various seasons, occurring five times a year.
These include
- Chaitra Navratri,
- Ashadha Navratri,
- Sharada Navratri, and
- Paush/Magha Navratri
Among these, Sharada Navratri during the Varsha ritu (onset of autumn) and Chaitra Navratri during the Vasanta ritu (spring season) hold particular importance.
Chaitra Navratri
Chaitra Navratri, also known as Vasant Navratri, typically occurs in either March or April and signifies the commencement of the Hindu calendar.
It is a vibrant nine-day festival celebrated with immense enthusiasm in Northern India. This Navratri takes place during the shukla paksha of the Chaitra month in the Hindu calendar, falling between March and April.
In Maharashtra, the first day of this Navratri is celebrated as Gudi Padwa, while in Kashmir, it is referred to as Navreh. Chaitra Navratri is joyously observed in Northern and Western India, enhancing the charm and divinity of the colorful spring season.
The term "Chaitra" signifies the beginning of a New Year. Thus, the New Year commences with nine days of introspection, prayer, meditation, and chanting.
Sharad Navratri
Sharad Navratri, also known as Maha Navratri, is the most popular and significant Navratri, celebrated during the Ashwin month in the Hindu calendar, which typically falls in September or October, marking the beginning of winter.
This Navratri is widely celebrated across India and is dedicated to the nine forms of Maa Shakti - Durga, Bhadrakali, Jagadamba, Annapurna, Sarvamangala, Bhairavi, Chandika, Lalita, Bhavani, and Mookambika.
Navratri also symbolizes the slaying of the demon Mahishasura by Goddess Durga, with the tenth day celebrated as Vijayadashami.
It's also the day when Sri Rama triumphed over Ravana and rescued Sita. In the southern parts of India, the festival includes the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati.
During this period, special homas (fire rituals), abhishekas (pouring libations), and pujas (worship with prayers and flower offerings to deities) are organized.
People celebrate these festivals through fasting, meditation, and worship of the nine forms of the goddess. While some fast for all nine days, others observe fasting only on the first and last days to mark the beginning and end of the festival.
Difference between chaitra navratri and sharad navratri
As mentioned Chaitra navratri is celebrated in March or April and also known Vasant navratri. The term "Chaitra" signifies the beginning of a New Year.
Sharad Navratri is celebrated in September or October and also known as Maha Navratri.
