Festival
Sharad Navratri
शारदीय नवरात्रि
Nine autumn nights of devotion to Durga, ending in Vijayadashami, the celebration of good over ignorance.
Why it matters
Sharad Navratri, in the bright half of Ashwin, is the most widely celebrated Navratri. For nine nights the Devi is honoured as Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati: strength, abundance and wisdom.
Read moreShow less
Homes and communities light lamps, read the Devi Mahatmya, sing and dance in garba, and many keep a light fast. Ashtami and Navami carry special worship, and the tenth day is Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
The festival invites you to honour the Divine Mother and to cultivate her qualities of courage, care and clarity in your own life.
A fast is optional. Skip if pregnant, unwell, diabetic or on medication; a light sattvic meal is a complete observance too.
Preview — awaiting expert reviewTonight's sequence
20 minNavratri Ashtami Sadhana: Devotion to the Divine Mother · 20 min
Simple home ritual
You will need
- A ghee diya
- Flowers
- A picture of the Devi
- A simple sweet for prasad