Navratri is not just a festival, it’s a heartfelt celebration of tradition, culture, and spirituality. This lively Hindu festival spans nine nights and is a time for devotion and joy. Navratri 2023’s dates are from October 15 to October 23. While children enjoy Navratri every year with Garba and Dandiya Raas, it is important for them to know about the mythology behind Navratri, the essence of each of its nine days. Discover how to celebrate this festive occasion with children in this blog by EuroSchool
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The Mythology of Navratri
In Hindu mythology, Navratri signifies the victory of good over evil. The story of Navratri is a battle between the goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasurav had a boon that he would not be killed by a man. Empowered, he wreaked havoc in heaven and on earth. To put an end to his tyranny, the divine trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, along with other deities, created the goddess Durga, an embodiment of beauty and power.
This battle between good and evil raged for nine days and nights, culminating in the tenth day when Durga, in her many forms, defeated Mahishasura. This ten-day period became known as Navratri, with the first nine days symbolising the epic battle and the tenth day celebrated as Vijayadashami, marking the goddess’s triumph over the demon.
Another story associated with Navratri is the tale of Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana. It is believed that Lord Rama invoked the blessings of Goddess Durga by performing a Chandi Homa, a fire ritual dedicated to the goddess, before his battle against Ravana. This ritual lasted for nine days and nights, during which the goddess bestowed her blessings upon Lord Rama, eventually leading to his victory on the tenth day, celebrated as Dussehra.
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Navratri Significance – Navratri Days
Navratri is celebrated for nine nights, with each night carrying its special meaning and significance. The festival pays homage to the diverse forms of the goddess Durga, each representing a different facet of the divine feminine.
- Day 1 – Pratipada:
- Day 2 – Dwitiya:
- Day 3 – Tritiya:
- Day 4 – Chaturthi:
- Day 5 – Panchami:
- Day 6 – Shashthi:
- Day 7 – Saptami:
- Day 8 – Ashtami:
- Day 9 – Navami:
This day is dedicated to Shailaputri, the daughter of the mountains. She symbolises the unwavering determination of a daughter to achieve her goals and the power of the earth.
On this day, Brahmacharini, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge, is worshipped. She embodies the pursuit of knowledge and the path of righteousness.
Chandraghanta, the goddess of bravery and beauty, is celebrated. She represents courage and grace, teaching us to be fearless in the face of adversity.
Kushmanda, the goddess residing in the cosmic egg, is revered. She embodies the creative energy of the universe and the source of all existence.
Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya, is worshipped. She symbolises the protective and nurturing aspect of motherhood.
Katyayani, the warrior goddess, is honoured. She represents courage and protection, associated with the fierce energy of a mother safeguarding her child.
On this day, devotees pay their respects to Kalratri, the dark and destructive form of the goddess. She signifies the moment when darkness is overcome by divine light.
Maha Gauri, the epitome of purity and peace, is celebrated. She represents calmness and serenity, reminding us to be kind and patient.
Siddhidatri, the goddess of supernatural powers, is venerated. She bestows her devotees with wisdom and knowledge.
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How to Celebrate Navratri with Kids
Here are some ways to make Navratri a delightful experience for kids:
- Storytelling:
- Dress Up:
- Art and Craft:
- Music and Dance:
- Cooking Delights:
- Pooja and Aarti:
- Create a Mini Mandap:
- Charity and Giving:
- Cultural Learning:
- Visiting Temples:
- Conduct Kanya pooja:
Share the fascinating stories of Navratri’s significance with your children. Narrate the tales of Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura or Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, making history come alive for them.
Encourage your kids to don traditional Indian attire during Navratri. This not only instils a sense of cultural pride but also immerses them in the festive spirit.
Involve children in creative activities related to Navratri. Guide them in making DIY decorations such as paper garlands or creating Rangoli patterns outside your home.
Navratri is famous for its energetic Garba and Dandiya dances. Teach your kids some simple Garba steps or engage them in a family dance session. Play traditional Navratri songs to create a festive atmosphere.
Involve children in the kitchen to prepare traditional Navratri dishes. Foods like sabudana khichdi, vrat ke aloo, or kuttu ki puri can be fun to make together.
Encourage your children to participate in the daily puja (worship) during Navratri. Let them offer flowers, light diyas (oil lamps), and join in the aarti (ritual prayer) to feel connected to the divine.
Set up a small, decorative shrine or mandap in your home where your children can place idols or images of the goddess. Let them decorate it with flowers and candles.
Teach your children the importance of charity and giving during Navratri. Involve them in donating clothes, food, or toys to the less fortunate, highlighting the spirit of compassion and empathy.
Take this opportunity to explain the cultural significance of Navratri, including the various forms of the goddess and their meanings. Children can learn about the importance of feminine energy in Hinduism.
If possible, visit local temples during Navratri. Let your children observe and participate in the special aartis and rituals conducted at the temple.
Celebrate the girl child in your house by doing Kanya Pooja on the 8th day of Navratri. It will honour and empower girls while it will teach young boys to respect girls
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Navratri is a lively and culturally rich festival that offers a unique blend of spirituality, mythology, and celebration. By sharing the stories and meanings behind Navratri with children, involving them in traditional activities, and fostering a sense of cultural pride, you can make this festival a memorable and meaningful experience for your family. Navratri serves as a beautiful opportunity to impart values, celebrate the divine feminine, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
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