Navaratri is an annual Hindu festival observed in honor of the goddess Durga, an aspect of Adi Parashakti, the supreme goddess. It spans over nine nights, first in the month of Chaitra, and again in the month of Ashvin (September–October). It is observed for different reasons and celebrated differently in various parts of the Hindu Indian cultural sphere. Theoretically, there are four seasonal Navaratri. However, in practice, it is the post-monsoon autumn festival called Sharada Navaratri. There are 2 Gupta Navaratris or "Secret Navaratris" as well, one starting on the Shukla Paksha Pratipada of the Magha Month and another starting in the Shukla Paksha Pratipada of Jyestha Month.
Murti of Durga upon a tiger during Navaratri, Pune
Navadurga - The nine goddesses worshipped in Navaratri.
An 1834 sketch by James Prinsep showing Rama Leela Mela during Navaratri in Benares.
Navaratri is also a festival for feasting with friends and family.
Durga is a major Hindu goddess, worshipped as a principal aspect of the mother goddess Mahadevi. She is associated with protection, strength, motherhood, destruction, and wars.
18th-century painting of Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura
'Durga in Combat with the Bull, Mahishasura', 19th century painting
Durga killing Mahishasura in a Durga Puja celebration in Bengal
Durga festival images (clockwise from top): Durga Puja pandal with a Durga idol with 1 million hands standing on top a bull's head to symbolize her victory over Mahishasura in Kolkata, Dancing on Vijaya Dashami, women smearing each other with colour, and family get together for Dashain in Nepal.
