Friday Facts: Navratri in Nepal

Mythology| Significance| Belief

4, Oct 2024 | nepaltraveller.com

Navratri in Nepal is observed with great devotion and cultural vibrancy, showcasing the nation's rich spiritual heritage

Navratri, meaning "nine nights," is one of Nepal's most important Hindu celebrations. It occurs in the autumn season, often around September or October. Navratri is devoted to the worship of Goddess Durga Mata Murti and her nine manifestations, known together as Navadurga. The event is celebrated with tremendous excitement and devotion, which is extremely important in Hindu mythology and culture.

Mythology behind Navratri

The origins of Navratri may be traced back to ancient times when the demon ruler, Mahishasura, threatened the planet. Mahishasura was a great demon that conquered the gods and drove them from heaven, according to Hindu mythology. To battle Mahishasura, the gods called upon their combined might to create the mighty Goddess Durga.

Durga and Mahishasura fought for nine nights and 10 days before Durga conquered and killed the demon on the tenth day. Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is a day to celebrate the victory of good over evil. Nine nights prior to Dussehra, people celebrate Navratri, a time when they worship the nine incarnations of Goddess Durga and ask for her blessings for prosperity and happiness.

Significance of Navratri

An essential part of Hindu mythology and culture is Navratri. It honors the victory of right over wrong and represents righteousness over immorality. The occasion honors the change from the hot and muggy monsoon to the crisp and lovely autumnal season.

Navratri in Nepal is observed with great devotion and cultural vibrancy, showcasing the nation's rich spiritual heritage. In Kathmandu Valley and other parts of Nepal, the festival is celebrated as Dashain, the longest and most auspicious festival for Nepali Hindus. People dress in traditional attire, perform rituals honoring Goddess Durga, and visit temples adorned with lights and decorations. Dashain is especially significant as families come together to worship, receive blessings, and exchange gifts, symbolizing unity and prosperity. In the Terai region, celebrations closely mirror those in neighboring India, with traditional dances, music, and gatherings that bring communities together in joyous observance.

 

Celebrating Navratri

Navratri is a celebration of worship, dedication, and joy. People decorate their homes with colorful lights and flowers during this occasion, and unique cuisines and desserts are prepared. They also dress traditionally and take part in cultural events and processions. During this time, families reunite, houses are thoroughly cleaned and decorated, and new clothes are worn as a mark of renewal and prosperity.

The festival’s main events include Ghatasthapana, when the sacred jamara (barley grass) is planted as a symbol of growth and blessings, and Phulpati, when flowers and holy items are ceremonially brought from Gorkha to Kathmandu’s Hanuman Dhoka. The celebration reaches its peak during Astami, Navami, and Dashami when families perform elaborate rituals, worship Goddess Durga, and make animal sacrifices to honor her power. On Vijaya Dashami, elders bless younger family members with tika (a mix of rice, yogurt, and vermillion) and jamara, symbolizing victory, good fortune, and blessings.

For many, Dashain is also a time to travel, as Nepalis from around the world return home to celebrate with family. Communities come alive with swings, fairs, and kite flying, filling the air with joy and festivity.

Significance of Worshipping Maa Durga Statue during Navratri 

Worshiping a Maa Durga statue during Navratri is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and tradition. It is thought that by praying to the great Goddess and seeking her blessings, one might achieve spiritual enlightenment and overcome problems in life. During Navratri, the nine forms of Durga worshipped signify distinct facets of the divine and empower devotees with the fortitude and bravery to overcome adversities. Worshiping a Maa Durga statue is a symbol of devotion and thanks to the Almighty, and it is thought that doing so can bring about inner peace and harmony.

Navratri is a Hindu holiday celebrating the triumph of virtue over evil and representing the changing seasons. It is a period of devotion, worship, and celebration, and it is extremely important in Hindu mythology and culture. On Navratri, the nine forms of Durga Mata statue are worshipped, each reflecting a distinct facet of the ultimate Goddess. The festival is celebrated in many ways around Nepal, but it is always a time for people to get together and rejoice in the divine's bounty.

Picture Credit: Nepal High Trek, Kantipur Holidays, South Asia Time, Mission Himalaya Treks, Deposit Photos


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