How Navratri Celebrations Began And Who Was The First Person To Observe Fast For 9 Days

Navratri is considered to be one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals. It celebrates the power of Shakti and during these nine days, the nine different forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. Navratri is celebrated twice a year- Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri. The tradition of worshipping Goddess Durga during Navratri has been going on for centuries. However, did you know who was the first to observe fast for 9 days during Navratri?

As per Dr Gaurav Kumar Dixit, President of Shukar Kshetra Foundation and Astrologer, Goddess Durga is a form of Shakti. Devotees worship her to gain spiritual strength, happiness and prosperity.

Now, as per mythological beliefs, before attacking Lanka, Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Durga on Mount Rishyamuk near Kishkindha. It was Lord Brahma who advised Lord Rama to worship Goddess Chandadevi, an avatar of Goddess Durga. He then recited the Chandadevi mantra from Pratipada Tithi to Navami Tithi. Apart from chanting the mantra of Goddess Chandi, Lord Brahma also asked Lord Rama to offer 108 blue lotuses after Chandi Puja and Havan.

These blue lotuses are quite rare. It is believed that Lord Rama obtained 108 blue lotuses with the help of his army. However, when Ravana was informed about this, he destroyed one of the lotuses with his powers. At the end of the Chandi Puja, when Lord Rama offered the blue lotuses, he found one to be missing. He decided to offer one of his eyes to Goddess Chandi. As soon as he raised the arrow to offer his eyes, Goddess Chandi who was pleased with his devotion, appeared before him and blessed him with victory.

Till Navami Tithi (ninth day), Lord Rama did not drink water or eat food to please Goddess Chandi. He ended up defeating Ravana after worshipping the goddess. It is believed that from then onwards, the celebration of Navratri started and Lord Rama was the first person and the King to observe the nine-day fast for Navratri.

This year, Chaitra Navratri will start on April 9 and will conclude on April 17. Devotees observe fast to seek the blessings of Mother Goddess during this auspicious time.