Festivals have special significance in Indian culture as they unite people in joy and enthusiasm. Chaitra Navratri is one of these festivals, as it is celebrated in every corner of the country. It lasts for nine days and is dedicated to honor all the incarnations of Goddess Durga. This year it will be celebrated with much pomp and enthusiasm from 9th to 27th April. It is celebrated in various ways to represent the victory of good over evil. The nation comes alive at this time, with vibrant decorations, upbeat music and traditional dances. For tourists seeking an authentic cultural experience, Navratri offers many possibilities to explore and uncover the essence of Indian tradition. (Also read: Chaitra Navratri 2024: Is Chaitra Navratri starting from 8th April or 9th April? Know the exact date of Hindu festival ,
Exploring India’s vibrant Chaitra Navratri festival
Bernard Correa, General Manager, Wego, shared with HT Lifestyle an itinerary for those interested in exploring the Chaitra Navratri celebrations being held across India.
1. Gujarat
Navratri is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in Gujarat. Devotees observe a nine-day fast in honor of Goddess Shakti, which falls in the first nine days of the month of Ashwin. When darkness falls, women perform ritual aarti while decorating earthen pots or “garbis” with glowing lamps to illuminate the night. Traditionally dressed men and women happily engage in these highly respected forms of expression, and the air is filled with the infectious energy of the Garba dance and Dandiya Raas.
2. West Bengal
Navratri has been transformed into the great Durga Puja festival in West Bengal. West Banga comes alive during the last four days of Navratri, with brilliant colors and dazzling lights illuminating the place. Believers love the belief of Goddess Durga descending from heaven to her earthly home, where she is welcomed with immense warmth and affection. Moreover, life-size idols of Durga are displayed in grand pandals, which are worshiped with utmost devotion. Navratri concludes on the tenth day with joyous celebration honoring Durga’s victorious battle against evil.
3. Kolkata
With the excitement of Durga Puja, a major celebration lasting ten wonderful days, Kolkata sets the stage for an incredible show that coincides with the Navratri celebrations across the country. The joyous opening honors the beloved Mother Durga, evoking excitement in a way never seen before. Like others across the country, devotees in Kolkata also revere the nine divine incarnations of the Goddess: Durga, Kali, Jagadamba, Annapurnadevi, Sarvamangala, Bhairavi, Chandika, Lalita, Bhavani and Mookambika. Furthermore, wearing colorful attire, devotees offer heartfelt thanks to Goddess Durga, infusing every ceremony with a deep sense of devotion and sincerity.
4. Andhra Pradesh
In Andhra Pradesh, Navratri is celebrated with brilliant colors with the name “Bathukamma Panduga” which translates as “Living Mother Goddess”. Goddess Gauri is worshiped on this occasion, and her idol is placed inside magnificent Bathukamma floral arrangements. Bathukamma Panduga is widely celebrated as the biggest festival in Andhra Pradesh, especially the Telangana region, and is considered both important and worth visiting. Gathering around Bathukamma, women dressed in exquisite gold jewelery and silk sarees pray to Goddess Gauri for her good graces.
In India, the festival of Navratri is a huge celebration with a variety of celebrations. Every region of the country has a unique custom to celebrate, with Gujarat hosting exciting Garba nights and West Bengal being home to spectacular Durga Puja. Additionally, Bathukamma is celebrated with beautiful flowers in Andhra Pradesh. These festivals provide a vibrant and lively display of the rich history and culture of India.
