Navratri (Sanskrit: ????????) is a Hindufestival of worship and dance. The word Navaratri literally means nine nights in Sanskrit; Nava meaning Nine and Ratri meaning nights.
Though it is one of the most celebrated festivals of Hindu calendar, it holds special significance for Gujratis and Bengalis and one can see it in the zeal and fervor of the people with which they indulge in the festive activities of the season
Navratri is also know as Durga Puja or Durgotsab in Bengal. It is an annual Bengali festival that celebrates worship of Hindu goddess Durga.
Dandiya and Garba Raas are the highlights of the festival in Gujarat while farmer sow seeds and thank the Goddess for her blessings and pray for better yield.
Originated as devotional Garba dances, which were performed in the honor of Goddess Durga, this dance form is actually the staging of a mock-fight between the Goddess and Mahishasura, the mighty demon-king.
A deeper meaning of the festival Navaratri suggests the spiritual growth of a person, where one needs courage to stand up for others and protect the weaker and be able to fight the evil and their temptations.
And thus Navratri is the festival that combines religions, devotional, cultural and recreational activities for almost a fortnight...