What is Navtatri?
Navratri, meaning ‘nine nights’, is one of the most auspicious and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. This year, starting April 13, the Hindu festival of Navarātri will begin and last till April 22. It is a time of celebration as well as of reflection for Hindus all across the globe. These nine days are truthfully devoted to Maa Durga and her nine incarnations, the epitome of sheer courage and strength. To offer gratitude to the goddess, people indulge all forms of fasting, spiritual practices, pujas, meditations and abstain from non vegetarian food and alcohol. All over India there is eruption of a nine-night dance festival and each night people assemble in open spaces to celebrate feminine divinity, referred to as Shakti. The Navratri pooja has an elaborate abhishekam of 11 offerings and a cheerful time of music and dance, singing the praises of the glory of Devi. It’s an explosion of energy and positivity.
Navratri celebration in Australia
Over the time, this festival has crossed boundaries of the nation and has become a reason to share smiles and joy all over the world. With millions of Indians living in Australia and many other countries, the festival is celebrated with utmost zest and zeal. A mother of two and a psychologist, Ms Khurana arrived in Australia in 2014 with her family. “We have formed a community group in which members host special prayers during Navratri at home and invite others. It’s a very important festival for us”, says Ms Kakkar. Today, Melbourne is home to the largest Hindu temple of the country and during busy festivals like Navratri, Shri Durga Temple at Deanside, hosts thousands of people (except for 2020 due to COVID-19). Pandit Sushil Shastri, a priest at the temple, says the festivities can even give you the illusion that you are in India.
In 2019, Indian Society in Australia hosted navtri nights In perth where people were dressed up in vibrant traditional attires of Ghagra-choli and Kurta – Pyjama. The delightful event was packed with the Garba fervour and great food. This is also a great time to travel to India, and be a part of the celebrations. Every part of India has a unique and beautiful way of honouring the occasion.
Here are a few Navratri events happening in Australia that might interest you :
Chaitra Navratri Garba
First time in History of Australia, a garba and dandia night proudly organised by GR Group( GR Events & GR Phones). The event is aupporting local and national artist and talents of Sargam Musical Forum. Join them for a blast of fun, dance and music.
When: 17 April 2021
Where : The Parks Recreation and Sports Centre – YMCA ,46 Cowan St, Angle Park SA
Navratri Celebrations 2021
An event curated by Jai Durga Sankirtan Mandal in Adelaide, this is a celebration of Navratri with special performances by kids and Maata ke Darshan (blessings of goddess).
When: 17 April, 2021
Where : Vietnamese Community Centre, 62, Athol Street, Athol Park, SA.
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