It sure is a great time to be in India, between the months of August to December the country celebrates one major festival after another. Shops are buzzing with activity as people rush to buy new clothes, sweets and other items. Neighbours are eternally in a good mood; friends keep inviting you to parties and get-togethers and kids are having the time of their lives. India with all its chaos is best experienced during the festivals. Those willing to brave the crowds will be rewarded a unique experience of watching religion, culture, humanity and gaiety come together for a spectacular show!
Navratri as the name suggests is the celebration of nine nights and ten days. The festival with its roots in the Hindu mythology is celebrated differently in the various parts of the country. Some parts celebrate it traditionally and some focus on the art and culture of the region. Here is a look at the sights of festival exuberance as Navratri celebrations are enjoyed across the country. They are also the ideal festival destinations for travel during Navratri. Take a virtual tour!
Festive Lights!
Festival lights are spotted in various parts of the country such as this setting in Mumbai.
Photo Courtesy: Stuti Sakhalkar
Temple Gaiety
The Kudroli Temple in Mangalore decked up in lights for the festive occasion of Navratri.
Photo Courtesy: Karunakar Rayker
Fascinating Customs
The custom of Gollu in southern India is a part of Navratri celebrations and involves the setting of many colourful dolls.
Photo Courtesy: Sunciti Sundaram
Fun and Frolic for Children
Children take part in a variety of cultural events across the country during the festive occasion of Navratri.
Photo Courtesy: Sheetal Saini
Stunning Performances
The stunning cultural performances during Navratri celebrations in Gujarat include folk dances.
Photo Courtesy: Anurag Agnihotri
Grand By Day, Grander By Night
The Mysore Palace is decked up with string lights for the festivities of Dasara.
Photo Courtesy: Ananth BS
Cultural Extravaganza
Cultural shows take place in various cities such as Ahmedabad and present a unique experience.
Photo Courtesy: Narendra Modi
Dandiya Raas
The scintillating performances of Dandiya Raas. Preparations for one such even in Bangalore.
Photo Courtesy: Nagarjun Kandukuru
Ma Durga Pandals
Cities such as Kolkata celebrate Navratri with much gusto. The beautiful Ma Durga pandals across the region are the key attraction.
Photo Courtesy: John Hoey
The Significant Earthen Pot
The earthen pots are of much importance during the Navratri festivities in Gujarat. The pot represents the human body and the lamp inside indicates to the divine soul.
Photo Courtesy: vaidyarupal
Breathtaking Beauty
The awe-inspiring altar of the goddess at Kudroli Temple in Mangalore.
Photo Courtesy: Karunakar Rayker
Flowers All Around
The prices of flowers go up a they are much in demand during the festival period in India.
Photo Courtesy: chiragndesai
Prasad
One form of blessings from the almighty is the prasad and this is available in various forms across the regions of India during Navratri.
Photo Courtesy: Devika
Vermilion
The most holy of colours during the Navratri puja is Vermilion. It is considered symbolic of Ma Durga.
Photo Courtesy: chiragndesai