Overview
Nine nights” festival honoring Goddess Durga and her 9 forms. Main legend – Goddess Durga battled demon Mahishasura for 9 days & nights. He had a boon that no man or god could kill him, only a woman. Brahma, Vishnu & Shiva created Durga to defeat him. She killed him on the 10th day, celebrated as Vijayadashami/Dussehra.
In North India, it’s also linked to Rama’s victory over Ravana – Ramlila plays end with burning Ravana effigies. Victory of good over evil, feminine divine power. Each day honors one form: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, etc.
Top Highlights
- Garba & Dandiya
- Each day honors a different form of Durga: Shailputri to Siddhidatri. 9 Different Goddesses
- Many fast for 9 days & wear a different color each day tied to the goddess’s form.
- Durga Puja pandals
