Navratri 2023 English: When is Sharadiya Navratri starting? Know the Ghat Sthapana Muhurta and the importance of Navratri

Navratri 2023 English: When is Sharadiya Navratri starting? Know the Ghat Sthapana Muhurta and the importance of Navratri

Introduction

Navratri, the nine-day festival celebrated with immense fervor and enthusiasm, holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Indians. This vibrant and spiritually charged festival is a celebration of the divine feminine energy and represents the triumph of good over evil. Navratri not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of India but also teaches valuable life lessons and fosters a sense of unity among people. In this blog, let’s explore the significance, rituals, and the joyous spirit of Navratri that makes it a truly unique and memorable celebration.

When is Sharadiya Navratri 2023 English starting?

This year Sharadiya Navratri 2023 English will be from 14 October 2023 to 24 October 2023. The Pratipada date of Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month is starting from 11:24 pm on October 14, 2023. This date will end on October 15 at 12:32 am. Looking at Udaya Tithi, Sharadiya Navratri 2023 will start from October 15, Sunday. Therefore Ghatasthapana will be done on 15th October.

पितृ पक्ष तिथियां 2023 Pitra Paksha Dates 2023Navratri 2023 English

Navratri 2023 english

The Significance of Navratri

Navratri, which means “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is observed twice a year: Chaitra Navratri in the spring (March/April) and Sharad Navratri in the autumn (September/October). During these auspicious nine days, devotees pay homage to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, each representing a different aspect of her divine power.

  1. Shailaputri: The embodiment of strength and purity.
  2. Brahmacharini: The seeker of knowledge and wisdom.
  3. Chandraghanta: The symbol of bravery and courage.
  4. Kushmanda: The creator of the universe.
  5. Skandamata: The nurturing mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya).
  6. Katyayani: The fierce protector of truth and righteousness.
  7. Kalaratri: The destroyer of darkness and ignorance.
  8. Mahagauri: The epitome of grace and compassion.
  9. Siddhidhatri: The bestower of divine blessings and supernatural powers.

The tenth day of Navratri, known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra, commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

navratri 2023 English

The Rituals and Celebrations

Navratri is a grand carnival of devotion, music, dance, and colorful festivities. The celebrations vary across different regions of India, but the essence remains the same.

  1. Ghatasthapana: The festival commences with the ritual of Ghatasthapana, where a pot or Kalash symbolizing the divine presence is filled with holy water and covered with clay. This pot is worshipped throughout Navratri.
  2. Fasting and Purity: Many devotees observe fasts during Navratri, abstaining from certain foods and maintaining purity of body and mind. Fasting is believed to purify the soul and strengthen spiritual connections.
  3. Garba and Dandiya Raas: The evenings of Navratri witness colorful and energetic Garba and Dandiya Raas dances. People dressed in traditional attire form circles and dance to the rhythm of devotional songs, celebrating the joy of life and love.
  4. Durga Puja: Elaborate Durga Puja ceremonies are held in temples and homes to honor the various forms of Goddess Durga. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, and incense, seeking her blessings and protection.

The Spiritual Message of Navratri 2023 English

Navratri transcends beyond being a mere cultural event; it imparts profound spiritual wisdom to those who seek it. The festival teaches us several valuable life lessons:

  1. Courage and Strength: Like Goddess Durga, we must cultivate inner strength and fearlessness to overcome life’s challenges.
  2. Knowledge and Wisdom: Emulate the wisdom-seeking nature of Goddess Brahmacharini and strive for continuous learning and self-improvement.
  3. Compassion and Love: The motherly affection of Skandamata reminds us to nurture and care for all living beings with love and compassion.
  4. Victory of Good over Evil: Dussehra’s triumph of Lord Rama over Ravana serves as a reminder that righteousness will always conquer evil.

navratri 2023 English

The nine Navratri colors
  1. Pratipada – October 15, 2023 (Sunday) – Orange 
  2. Dwitiya – October 16, 2023 (Monday) – White   
  3. Tritiya – October 17, 2023 (Tuesday) – Red 
  4. Chaturthi – October 18, 2023 (Wednesday) – Blue (Royal Blue)
  5. Panchami – October 19, 2023 (Thursday) – Yellow 
  6. Sashti – October 20, 2023 (Friday) –  Green  
  7. Saptami – October 21, 2023 (Saturday) – Grey
  8. Ashtami – October 22, 2023 (Sunday) – Purple
  9. Navami – October 23, 2023 (Monday) –  Peacock Green

Conclusion

Navratri is more than just a religious festival; it is a beautiful amalgamation of spirituality, joy, and unity. The celebration of the divine feminine energy inspires us to introspect, discover our inner strengths, and radiate love and kindness towards others.

As we immerse ourselves in the resplendent festivities of Navratri, let us embrace the profound messages it imparts, spreading happiness, harmony, and goodwill among all. May the divine blessings of Goddess Durga fill our lives with abundance and lead us on a path of righteousness and spiritual growth. Happy Navratri to everyone!

Navratri 2023 English Dates

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