The end of September doesn't normally signal the beginning of the holiday season for me, but by the Hindu calendar, things are a little different. September 28th marked the first day of Navratri. Navratri is a nine day festival that celebrates the goddess Durga and her 9 avatars. Each day of the festival honors a different avatar. Wednesday's newspaper contained a booklet on Navratri and a story about each avatar and what she represents. During Navratri people fast on varying levels depending on their devotion, but for most people it just means that they eat simply- without onion, garlic, meat... They daily offer pooja (worship) to the goddess in their homes and also go to the temple to worship.
Because they never know when a new avatar will appear, female children are also honored and worshiped during this festival.
At the end of the festival there is a big celebration. People buy new clothing and it ushers in the holiday season with Dushera and Diwali to soon follow.
I hope to attend some holiday events and promise to post more pictures once we get our fast internet back next month.
Because they never know when a new avatar will appear, female children are also honored and worshiped during this festival.
At the end of the festival there is a big celebration. People buy new clothing and it ushers in the holiday season with Dushera and Diwali to soon follow.
I hope to attend some holiday events and promise to post more pictures once we get our fast internet back next month.
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