Navratri, the nine-day long festival, is dedicated to the nine forms of goddess Shakti, celebrated with much fanfare.

This year, Shardiya Navratri or Maha Navratri began yesterday on October 17 and will continue until October 25. Each day of the festival is observed with special puja and fast.

According to the Hindu calendar, the festival is celebrated in the month of Ashvin, which typically falls in September and October, as per the Gregorian calendar. People celebrate the festival with new clothes, elaborate decorations, dancing and fasting. It is also believed that Lord Rama had defeated King Ravana in the battle of Lanka during these days. Post which, he had returned home to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. The festival is culminated by burning the effigies of Ravana and his brothers Meghnad and Kumbhakaran.

In the eastern and northeastern states of India, the celebration is called Durga Puja. Here, it is believed that Goddess Durga had won the battle against demon Mahishasura. People dress up and take part in cultural activities, observe fasts and offer prayers to the deity.
According to Drik Panchang, the Shardiya Navratri Ghatasthapana — which marks the beginning of the nine-day festivitie — will take place on October 17.  There is a prescribed vidhi / method to perform pujas during nine days.

COVID-19However, owing to the pandemic, this year, celebrations are deemed to be limited. Following the instructions from FHI Mandir`s executive committee has decided to refrain from any festivities in Mandir in near future.
MAY THE GREAT GODDESS MAA DURGA PROVIDE US WITH STRENGTH, WISDOM AND COURAGE TO OVERCOME ALL OBSTACLES IN LIFE!

Best regards,Sanatan Mandir Sabha