Navratri, which began on October 14, heralds the season of festivities in India. Navratri (literally meaning nine nights) may see Gujarat erupt in a riot of colour but the festival is no less important in other parts of India. In Bengal it is known as Durga Puja or Sarodotsav, and is the state's most important festival. The sound of dhak, the aura of dhunuchi nach, the mild fragrance of Sheuli -- for the Bengali nothing can be more important at this time of the year.
Navratri symbolizes nine avatars of the deity, which killed nine evil forces: The first is Mahakali, who killed two rakshasas (evil forces) - Madhu and Kaitabh. The second is Mahalakshmi, who killed Mahishasur.
In Bengal this particular avatar of the deity is worshipped for four consecutive days -- Mahasaptami, Mahashtami, Mahanavami and Vijaya Dashami, which marks the idol's immersion.
The last day of the Bengali festival is Dusshera in other parts of India. Of course, the end of Navratri sets off a number of other festivals, starting with Diwali.
Photograph: Deepak Salvi
Design and Information sourced by Rupali Nimkar
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