Navratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates the divine feminine, or Shakti. This nine-day event is dedicated to the goddess Durga and her nine forms. For many, it is a time of great devotion, fasting, and vibrant celebrations across India and in Hindu communities all over the world.

Navratri literally translates from Sanskrit to "nine nights" (nava = nine, ratri = nights). This festival honours the nine different forms of Goddess Durga, with each day dedicated to a specific form. The festival is a celebration of good overcoming evil, symbolised by Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura. It’s a time for people to show their devotion and to find spiritual renewal.

In 2025, Navratri will be celebrated from Saturday, 20 September to Sunday, 29 September. The festival culminates in Dussehra (also known as Vijayadashami), which marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, and the end of Durga's battle with Mahishasura.

Each of the nine days has a specific colour and is dedicated to one of the nine forms of the goddess.

The tenth day, September 29 (Sunday), is celebrated as Vijayadashami/Dussehra.

The history of Navratri is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. The most popular legend tells of the powerful buffalo demon, Mahishasura. He gained a special power that made him invincible to any god or man. To defeat him, the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva created the goddess Durga. The battle between Durga and Mahishasura lasted for nine nights, and on the tenth day, she finally defeated him. The nine nights of battle are what we celebrate as Navratri, and the tenth day of victory is Dussehra.

The rituals of Navratri are a core part of the festival. They often include:

Observing Navratri often involves a set of rules to maintain purity and devotion. Some of the common rules are:

Navratri is celebrated in different ways across India. In some regions, people perform Garba and Dandiya dances every night. These lively dances are a big part of the cultural expression of the festival.

In others, the focus is on performing daily pujas and rituals. In West Bengal, the last four days of the festival are celebrated as Durga Puja, with large idols of the goddess displayed in public. This is a very social and community-focused celebration.

This lively tradition has also found a home in Singapore, where local Indian communities and dance studios hold popular Dandiya Night events that are open to everyone.

During Navratri, many people follow a special diet, called the "Navratri diet" or "Falahari." It's mostly a vegetarian diet that avoids grains, legumes, and certain spices. Some common foods include:

Once you’re done exploring Navratri in Singapore, these hotels provide the perfect spot to relax and recharge

If you want to experience the true spirit of Navratri, here are some of the best places to visit:

If you're celebrating Navratri or just want to share the festive cheer, sending a thoughtful message is a great way to do it. Here are some examples of wishes you can share with your friends and family.

"Happy Navratri! May Maa Durga bless you with happiness, peace, and prosperity this festive season."

"Wishing you and your family a very blessed and joyful Navratri. May the nine days be filled with light and love."

"May the divine blessings of Goddess Durga fill your life with new beginnings and endless joy. Happy Navratri!"

"Here's to celebrating the victory of good over evil. Wishing you a Navratri filled with good health and good fortune."

"May the nine colours of Navratri bring you strength, happiness, and peace. Happy Navratri 2025!"

"Happy Navratri! Let's get ready for a fun-filled time with dandiya and garba. Enjoy the festival!"

"May the powerful energy of the Goddess guide you towards success and inner strength. Happy Navratri!"

"Sending you my best wishes for a blessed Navratri. Have a wonderful and festive time!"

"May the glow of the diyas fill your home with warmth and happiness. Wishing you a very Happy Navratri!"

"May the Goddess's blessings bring you health, wealth, and joy. Have a fun and festive Navratri!"

1. What is the significance of the Navratri colours? The colours for each day represent a different form of Goddess Durga and have special meanings. For example, White represents purity, Red signifies power, and Royal Blue symbolises calm and divine energy.

2. Are the Navratri dates the same every year? No, the dates change each year as the festival is based on the lunar calendar. It is usually celebrated in the autumn months.

3. What is the difference between Navratri and Dussehra? Navratri is the nine-night festival honouring Goddess Durga. Dussehra is the tenth day, which marks the victory of good over evil, celebrating the end of Navratri.

4. What is the main purpose of fasting during Navratri? Fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the body and mind, as well as a gesture of devotion and gratitude to the goddess.

5. Is Navratri celebrated only in India? No. Navratri is a major Hindu festival celebrated by Hindu communities around the world, including in Nepal, Bangladesh, and many other countries with a significant Hindu population.

6. What is the meaning of each day of Navratri? Navratri is a nine-day festival where each day is dedicated to worshipping a different avatar of Goddess Durga-First day-ShailaputriSecond day-BrahmachariniThird day-ChandraghantaFourth day-KushmandaFifth day-SkandamataSixth day-KatyayiniSeventh day-KalaratriEighth day-MahagauriNinth day-Siddhidaatri

To make sure your celebration goes smoothly, especially if you're planning to join in on the local events or travel to experience the festivities, it's a good idea to book your flights and hotels in advance. For great deals on everything from activities, flights, and hotels, give Traveloka a look. Planning smart is key to having the best, most enjoyable holiday possible! Ready to experience the magic of Navratri?