Aham Gohar (LINKING MACHINE OPERATOR)

In my family, this day is very special. We decorate the puja area with white flowers because they are considered dear to Skandamata. Also, we offer bananas as prasad, since it is believed to please her. Worshipping her is said to remove all kinds of sufferings.

In Mauritius and Fiji, where many Hindus live, Navratri is observed with Ramayan recitals, bhajans, and Garba nights. Communities come together in temples, and fasting rules are followed strictly. So, it is truly a global festival.

In our society, we keep Garba very family-friendly. We start with aarti of Goddess Durga, then play Garba and Dandiya till 10 pm (to respect noise rules). We also have small competitions for best-dressed, best dancer, and even kids’ Garba. This keeps everyone engaged and happy.

Some popular vrat sweets are:- Sabudana Kheer - Makhana Kheer - Coconut Ladoo - Singhare ke Halwa - Dry fruit LadooThese are made without regular flour or salt and are easy to digest during fasting.

I see Vijayadashami as the conclusion of Navratri’s spiritual journey. After nine days of devotion and fasting, the tenth day reminds us to apply those teachings in daily life – to remove inner negativity and live with truth and strength. That is the deeper meaning of Dussehra.

NRIs celebrate Navratri with great enthusiasm. In the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, community halls and stadiums are booked for Garba and Dandiya events. People dress in colorful traditional clothes, play live music, and dance late into the night. Temples abroad organize Durga puja, aarti, and bhajan nights. Food stalls selling Indian snacks are also common. These events not only serve as spiritual gatherings but also keep cultural roots alive among the younger generation.

Some of the most inspiring devotional movies to watch during Navratri are:- Jai Santoshi Maa (1975) – A classic film that became a household devotional favorite. - Durga Mata Ki Jai (1960s) – Old but spiritually powerful film. - Devi Maa (1980s) – Focuses on the legends of Goddess Durga. On TV, you can watch Mahishasura Mardini episodes, Devon Ke Dev Mahadev, or Siya Ke Ram reruns. Many channels also telecast special Navratri devotional programs during these days.

I feel the biggest benefit of Navratri fasting is mental clarity. When you eat less, your brain works better. Also, you feel lighter and more active. Drinking coconut water and eating fruits gives energy without heaviness. That is why fasting is considered healthy for both body and soul.

Navratri fasting has multiple scientific benefits:- Detoxification: Avoiding heavy grains and processed foods gives rest to the digestive system. - Weight management: Eating fruits, nuts, and light meals helps in weight control. - Boosts immunity: Consuming vitamin-rich foods like fruits, makhana, and coconut water strengthens the body. - Mental peace: Fasting with prayers reduces stress and improves concentration. - Balances metabolism: Restricting food intake resets the digestive rhythm and balances energy.Thus, Navratri fasts are both spiritual and scientific in nature.

I think the key to observing Navratri fast correctly is simplicity and devotion. Many people complicate it with too many rules. In reality, you should focus on:- Waking up before sunrise. - Taking bath and wearing clean clothes. - Chanting Durga Chalisa or reciting Durga Saptashati. - Eating light foods such as fruits, makhana, milk, or dry fruits. - Avoiding anger, lies, and negative thoughts. The true purpose of vrat is purification of mind and body. If you keep your heart pure and follow a satvik lifestyle, you will never break the traditional rules.

I always see Durga Ashtami and Maha Navami as the heart of Navratri. In 2025, these two days will again bring energy to temples and households. On Ashtami, many families invite little girls, wash their feet, tie red threads on their wrists, and serve them food like puri, halwa, and chana. On Navami, the celebration gets bigger with community pujas, garba, and Dussehra preparations. Symbolically, Ashtami shows the strength of the goddess, and Navami shows her victory. For devotees, it is a time of gratitude and joy.