Navratri 2024: Significance, Rituals, and Colours for Each Day

Navratri, a festival celebrated with fervor and devotion, commemorates the divine feminine and the triumph of good over evil. This nine-day event, dedicated to Goddess Durga, involves elaborate rituals and customs observed by millions across India. In 2024, Navratri is set to begin on Thursday, October 3, and will conclude on Saturday, October 12.

Each day of Navratri is associated with a distinct form of Goddess Durga and is marked by specific rituals, offerings, and colours. These elements hold significant meaning and are believed to bring blessings and spiritual growth for the devotees.

On the first day, known as Pratipada, devotees perform Ghatasthapana, marking the ritual installation of a sacred pot symbolizing Goddess Durga’s presence. The goddess worshipped on this day is Shailputri, representing strength and wisdom, and the auspicious colour worn is yellow, symbolising joy and energy.

The second day, Dwitiya, is dedicated to Goddess Brahmacharini, emblematic of love, devotion, and peace. The ritual of Chandra Darshana, or moon sighting, is practiced, with devotees wearing green to signify growth and renewal.

Tritiya, the third day, involves the worship of Goddess Chandraghanta. Known for her bravery and warrior spirit, the day is also marked by the Sindoor Tritiya ritual. The day’s colour is grey, representing balance and calmness.

On Chaturthi, the fourth day, devotees honor Goddess Kushmanda alongside the coinciding festival of Vinayaka Chaturthi. The chosen colour, orange, represents enthusiasm and warmth.

The fifth day, Panchami, is devoted to Skandamata, the mother of the divine warrior Skanda. White is the symbolic colour worn, denoting purity and innocence.

Shashthi, the sixth day, sees the invocation of Goddess Katyayani, revered for her power and courage. Red, representing vitality and strength, is the day’s colour.

The seventh day, Saptami, honors the fierce and transformative force of Goddess Kaalratri. Royal blue is the colour of choice this day, symbolizing the richness and depth of her power.

On the eighth day, Ashtami, Mahagauri, noted for her purity and beauty, is worshipped. Pink, representative of universal love and harmony, is worn.

The festival concludes on Navami with the veneration of Goddess Siddhidatri, the granter of supernatural powers. The day’s hue, purple, represents luxury and nobility, reflecting the divine opulence she bestows.