Navratri Calendar 2024: Date-wise full schedule, rituals, and significance
Navratri is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India, devoted to the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. In 2024, the nine-day Shardiya or Shrad Navratri will take place in the month of Ashwin, which usually falls between September and October on the Gregorian calendar. This festival is one of the four Navratris observed in a year, with Shardiya Navratri being the most revered, often referred to as Maha Navratri due to its immense religious and cultural significance.
Navratri 2024: Date and Origin
Navratri in 2024 will begin on Thursday, October 3, and will end with Dussehra or Vijayadashami on Saturday, October 12. The festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. After a fierce battle lasting nine days, Goddess Durga defeated Mahishasura on the tenth day, which is why she is honoured as Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of Mahishasura.
Additionally, the tenth day of Navratri, Vijayadashami, is also linked to Lord Rama's victory over Ravana, where he rescues Goddess Sita after a long battle. This dual symbolism makes Navratri and Dussehra culturally rich festivals in India.
Key Rituals of Navratri 2024
Navratri is marked by a series of rituals that devotees follow with devotion and discipline. Some of the prominent rituals include:
Daily Worship of Different Goddesses: Each day of Navratri is dedicated to one form of Goddess Durga, starting with Shailaputri and followed by Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda,
