Navratri, which began on September 30, 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.
Photographs: Arun Patil
Image: The Sankalp dandiya at Andheri, Mumbai is one of the most popular dandiya venues in the city.
Also read: Welcoming goddess Durga