Navaratri is dedicated to the worship of Hindu Deity, Shakti and it’s Sanskrit name literally means ‘nine nights festival.’ Navaratri is divided into sets of three days to adore three different aspects of the supreme Goddess or Goddesses. During the first period, the Goddess separates as a spiritual force called Durga (or Kali) in order to destroy devotees’ impurities. During the second period, she is adored as the giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi. The final three days are spent worshipping the Goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. During Navaratri, many devotees observe a fast and prayers are offered for the protection of health and prosperity. Devotees also avoid meat, alcoholic drinks, wheat, grains and onion during this fast.
The Navaratri festival started on Monday, September 26 and concludes on Wednesday, October 5. The Laudium Sun joins the Laudium Tamil Association and the Nritya Rupam Academy Of Dance in wishing all devotees a very happy Navaratri celebration.
Pictured: Nritya Rupam Dancers: Jia Parmar (15), Prianka Nadas (14), Prital Joshi (15), Kashmira Joshi (15), Samiksha Joshi (13) and Seema Lala (teacher). Front: Kiara Nathoo (12) and Juhi Joshi (11).
