I know most of you who read my blog are family who already know that we are currently celebrating Navratri, but for those who happen to stumble across my blog, or who aren’t Hindu, I thought I’d give a brief explanation...
Navratri is the Sanskrit word for ‘nine nights’ and is a Hindu festival which honours the feminine manifestations of the Divine. There are several festivals throughout the year, but the one occurring now called Maha Navratri (Great Navratri) is the most celebrated and significant. During this time, three forms of the Divine Mother are worshipped (which forms and for how many days during the festival vary depending on the region). Navratri is meant to be a very auspicious time where Hindus express their devotion to the feminine supreme in the form of prayers and fasting.
I remember one year when I was a child, during Navratri, myself along with several other girls my age were honoured in a small ceremony. It is common during Navratri (especially on the last couple of days) for young girls to be recognised as one of the purest forms of feminine power. Their feet are washed, they are fed special sweets and presented with new clothes, and essentially they are treated as goddesses.
At the time, I didn’t really understand the significance of what was taking place – although I do remember how much I enjoyed having my toes painted with red nail polish! But more seriously, reflecting on the experience now, I find it so unconventional, so unique and unbelievable that a religion would not only recognise the significance and power of the feminine but go so far as to honour little girls in this precious way. Is there any other faith which does this?
I am not ignorant to the fact that violence against women and girls takes place even in communities which celebrate Navratri - it's not my intention to glorify all Hindus as supporters of equality. But you have to agree that a festival which sanctifies womankind is pretty cool, and maybe in so doing, on a subconscious level, we can reinforce women's subjectivity, and be reminded of our own significance and 'Shakti' as women.
I don't know if it is correct to 'wish' someone a happy Navratri, but perhaps what I can say is that during this very auspicious time, I am praying for continued blessings and guidance to all my little goddesses.
