Festivals - Nau Raatri

NAV RATRI

 

The festival of Navratri (nav = nine and ratri = nights) lasts for 9 days with three days each devoted to worship of Maa Durga, the Goddess of Valor, Ma Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Maa Saraswati, the Goddess of Knowledge. During the nine days of Navratri, feasting and fasting take precedence over all normal daily activities amongst the Hindus.

 

Pakha Dhar:

NINE MATERIALS TO BE ADDED TO DHAR:

• Hardi
• Sindoor
• White Rice
• Sugar
• Clove
• Camphor
• Neem Leaf
• Nutmeg
• Milk

 

Durga Gaayatri

Aum Kaatyaayanyai Vidmahe, Kan Yaa Dhimahi, Tanno Durga Prachodayat.

Meaning: May we realise Kaatyaaayanee, the shakti. Let us meditate on Kanya Kumaari the virgin Goddess, May Durga illuminate us.

Mahalakshmi Gayatri

Aum Mahaa Lakshmyai cha Vidmahay, Vishnu Priyaayai cha Dhimahi, Tanno Lakshmeeh Prachodayaat.

Meaning: May we realise Mahaalakshmi. Let us meditate on the consort of the beloved Lord Vishnu and may Goddess Lakshmi illuminate us.

Saraswati Gaayatri

Aum Vaagdevyai Cha Vidmahay, Kaam Raajaaya Dhimahi, Tanno Devi Prachodayaat.

Meaning: May we realise the giver of speech. Let us meditate upon the fulfiller of desires. May Mother Saraswati grant us illumination.

 

Parvathi Sloka

Om Sarva mangala maangalye Shive sarvaarthasadhike,
Sharanye Triyambake Gauri Naraayani namostute

Meaning: Thou art the all auspicious Shiva ( Shakti aspect ), the bountiful; I prostrate myself at Thy feet, O Triyambake (three eyed one), Gauri(the one with a fair complexion – Parvathi ) Naraayani.

See also Naw Raatri Puja.

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