India with its diverse culture and rich traditions is known for its colorful and vibrant festivals. Among these Durga Puja or Navratri holds a special place as one of the most widely celebrated festivals across the country. The festival is marked by elaborate rituals and grand festivities that vary in style and essence from state to state. Each region in India adds its own unique touch to the celebration making it a truly captivating experience for both locals and visitors. The joyous atmosphere, traditional music and lively dance performances during Durga Puja showcase the unity in diversity that defines India's cultural landscape.

Dates of Durga Puja in 2024

Everything about Durga Puja in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, a state in northern India, is renowned for its vibrant culture and lively festivities. It holds great importance in Hinduism as it is home to several "Shaktipeeths." One of the most celebrated festivals in the region is Durgapuja, which lasts for nine days and is known as Navratri or "Durgotsav." During this auspicious festival, people engage in a myriad of rituals and celebrations with immense zeal and devotion. The air is filled with the sounds of bhajans and the aroma of incense as devotees come together to worship the goddess Durga. Navratri in Uttarakhand is a time of spiritual significance and communal harmony, bringing people closer to their roots and traditions.

Because of its long-standing religious and spiritual significance, Uttarakhand, also known as Devbhoomi, has a particular place in the hearts of its devotees. Geographically, the state is split into the areas of Garhwal and Kumaun, each of which offers a distinctive fusion of customs and culture.

Rituals and Prayers

The festivities begin with the invocation of Goddess Durga into a Kalash  accompanied by elaborate Vedic rituals and the chanting of sacred mantras. This ritual marks the beginning of a period filled with devotion  prayers  and celebrations in honor of the divine feminine energy.

The arrival of Navratri brings with it the much-awaited depiction of Ramleela on stage, a performance that captivates and enthrals spectators. Women can be heard singing soulful bhajans during the evening, creating a divine and positive atmosphere that resonates with everyone present. The spiritual energy and devotion felt during this time are truly uplifting, making Navratri a cherished and revered celebration for all.

The doorsteps of the homes are adorned with captivating Aipan patterns created with a mixture of geru (ochre color) and rice paste, adding a touch of beauty to the entrance.

(Aipan Art )

During Navratri, devotees fast for nine days, although the number of fasting days may vary. Some individuals choose to fast for nine days during Navratri, while others opt to fast only on the first and last days of the festival. During this time, devotees only eat one meal a day called "saatvik ahaar" and avoid grains and strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic. Aloo gutuk, Kuttu poori, and cucumber raita with mustard seed tempering are mostly enjoyed during the fasting period.

One of the most significant days of Durga Puja is Maha Ashtami and Maha Navmi (the second day of Durga Puja). During Maha Ashtami Puja and Maha Navmi, all nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. On Maha Ashtami and Maha Navmi, young single girls are also adored as Goddess Durga and fed with halwa, poori, and chana as sacraments. These days are also referred to as Kajak Pujan.

Durga Idols and Pandals

 The construction of Durga pandals and idols first started in Utttarakhand in 1981 in the Gangola society of Almora city. The tradition that has continued since then is currently being operated at various places in the city. The specialty of making Durga idols in the city is that, unlike in Bengal, here the background is made contemporary every year.

After Navratri, on Dashami Tithi, devotees from different parts of the country gather here to see the procession of these idols. In addition to creating eco-friendly Durga idols, biodegradable materials have been utilized for the decoration of the pandal.

On the occasion of Durga Mahotsav, a fair is being organized at DSA Ground in Mallital, Nainital (Nainital News), where shops are set up by local and outside traders. Tourists and locals coming to Nainital shop extensively at the fair. A large crowd is seen at the fair in the evening.

In the past, Maa Durga idols crafted in Kolkata were transported to Haldwani by train and then to Nainital by road before being consecrated. Presently, residents are actively joining in the festivities alongside the Bengali community, making it easier to locate Maa Durga idols in the area.

Dressing

During the Navratri festivities,    Women can be seen adorning themselves in stunning sarees and vibrant rangwali pichora a hand-dyed garment colored in hues of yellow. 

(Idol of Lakshmi Devi in Pichora)

In contrast men opt for a more traditional attire consisting of churidar pajamas paired with a kurta. 

Programs

The celebrations of Navratri are further elevated with the energetic and captivating choliya dance a traditional form of dance that reflects mythological warfare and the valor of soldiers. This dance not only entertains the spectators but also serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the region.

Bhajan sandhyas are held in temples where the thirteen chapters of Durga Saptashati are recited with profound devotion.

In addition to the traditional dance, choliya, dandiya is also practiced in various regions of Uttarakhand. Dandiya nights are organized, attracting the youth who participate in the dance while dressed in traditional attire.

Food

During Navratri, devotees fast for nine days, although the number of fasting days may vary. Some individuals choose to fast for nine days during Navratri, while others opt to fast only on the first and last days of the festival. During this time, devotees only eat one meal a day called "saatvik ahaar" and avoid grains and strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic. Aloo gutuk, kuttu poori, sago khichdi and cucumber raita with mustard seed tempering are mostly enjoyed during the fasting period.  Halwa, poori, and chana are enjoyed on the occasion of Udyapan.

 To sum up

The festival of Navratri is a time for families and communities to come together and celebrate the victory of good over evil, as well as the power and strength of the goddess Durga. It is a time for joy, feasting, and cultural performances, as well as a time for prayer and reflection. The festival is marked by elaborate rituals, colorful decorations, and the building of temporary temples, known as pandals, where the goddess Durga is worshipped. It is a time for people to dress in their finest clothes, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional music and dance. Overall, Durga Puja is a time for people to come together and celebrate their shared heritage and faith.