Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, October 17, 2023
Navratri (Nine Nights) is a festival that is celebrated with great zeal and fervour in India.
It is not just a cultural event but a profound celebration of female power.
It has transformed itself into a dynamic platform to highlight and amplify the strength, resilience, and achievements of women in contemporary society.
At the heart of Navratri is the worship of Goddess Durga, a revered symbol of Divine Feminine Power. Durga is depicted as a Warrior Goddess, symbolising strength, courage, and the ability to overcome adversities. Her presence during Navratri serves as a poignant reminder of the inexhaustible potential within every woman.
Significance for Indians
Navratri holds immense significance for Indians around the globe and New Zealand is no exception. Rooted in ancient traditions, this nine-night festival has seamlessly integrated into contemporary society, becoming a cultural extravaganza that transcends regional boundaries.
Navratri’s significance in modern times extends far beyond the religious realm. It stands as a symbol of unity, empowerment, and cultural preservation. It brings economic prosperity to businesses, encourages social integration, and provides a much-needed break from the rigours of contemporary life. Navratri’s influence in the modern era is a testament to the adaptability of cultural traditions and the enduring spirit of celebration.
Navratri has evolved into a symbol of cultural unity, where people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. In a diverse country like India, the festival serves as a unifying force, fostering bonds that transcend religious and regional differences.
Meenakshi Patel, a young professional said, “Navratri is the time when I forget all my worries and dance my heart out with people from all walks of life. It is a reminder that we are all connected through our shared love for culture and tradition.”
Empowerment of Women
In modern society, Navratri serves as a powerful reminder of women’s empowerment.
Women participate in the festivities with enthusiasm, taking up leadership roles in organising events and showcasing their talents.
A businesswoman by profession, Tina Khanna said, “Navratri is not just a festival. it is a celebration of womanhood and the strength we possess. During these nine nights, I feel empowered, confident, and ready to face any challenge.”
Navratri transcends boundaries and brings people from all walks of life under one roof. The infectious enthusiasm of Garba and Dandiya dances encourages social integration, where strangers become friends on the dance floor. It is a great platform for people to interact and form new connections.
Rahul, a College student at Waikato University said, “I have made some of my closest friends at Navratri events. The vibrant atmosphere and the spirit of unity are unmatched. It is like a social celebration where everyone is welcome. It reminds me of home and brings the festivities closer for my Kiwi University friends to experience and enjoy.”
Preservation of Tradition
In a rapidly changing world, festivals like Navratri help preserve and promote traditional art forms, music, and dance. The colourful attire, rhythmic beats, music, dance, prayers and rituals are all a testament to the rich heritage of India. Younger generations are encouraged to embrace their culture through festivities organised by organisations around the country.
“As a mother, it is my responsibility to ensure that my children grow up appreciating our traditions. Navratri is the perfect time to introduce them to our cultural roots and make them enjoy the festivities that follow the arrival of the goddess,” Vinita Sharma, a mother of two, said.
Navratri 2023
Navratri is celebrated for nine consecutive nights and begins on the first day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin.
Navratri commenced on October 15 with events and prayers across most of the temples.
The festival will culminate on the tenth day, October 24, known as Dussehra or Vijayadashami.
The post-autumnal equinox is the time of the feminine.
The Indian society is unique as it has worked to establish the feminine consciously because the masculine asserts itself without much encouragement. The feminine needs support to assert itself, otherwise, it moves into the background.
The Indian culture has created processes and rituals to celebrate the feminine energy in our home, culture, and day-to-day practices.
Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati are seen as three dimensions of the feminine, symbolising the Earth, the Sun and the Moon, or tamas (Inertia), Rajas (Activity, Passion) and Sattva (Transcendence, Knowledge, Purity), respectively.
Those who aspire for strength or power, worship forms of the feminine like Mother Earth, Durga or Kali. Those who aspire for wealth, passion, or material gifts worship Lakshmi or the Sun.
Those who aspire for knowledge, dissolution or the transcendence of the limitations of the mortal body worship Saraswati or the Moon.
The nine days of Navratri are classified according to these basic qualities. The first three days are dedicated to Durga, the next three to Lakshmi, and the last three to Saraswati.
The tenth day, Vijayadashami, signifies the triumph over all these three aspects of life.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
