Dr Kamani Dutta
Navratri, a vibrant and spiritually enriching festival celebrated across India, holds great importance for Hindus. During this time, devotees come together to honor the divine feminine energy embodied by Goddess Durga in her various forms. Spanning nine days and nights, Navratri-derived from the Sanskrit term meaning “nine nights”-pays tribute to the nine different manifestations of the goddess, each symbolizing unique aspects of feminine power, from the fierce warrior to the nurturing mother. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and through fasting, we strive to conquer our inner demons and emerge spiritually enlightened.
Fasting during Navratri holds great spiritual meaning; it represents a spiritual journey of purification. By refraining from specific foods and behaviours, one can clear away negative thoughts, habits, and emotions, creating space for spiritual awakening .It is far more than just refraining from food; it is an act of self-discipline and purification. Fasting during this festival serves as a means to cleanse both the body and the mind, preparing devotees for deeper spiritual connection and introspection. With a lighter body and a calmer mind, its easier to engage in spiritual practices. This elevated awareness facilitates a deeper connection with the divine, fostering spiritual growth and self-realization. Navratri fasting lies in refraining from the intangible obstacles that hinder our spiritual progress. We are called to fast from self-doubt, negativity, anger, fear, and all negative emotions that cloud our minds and distance us from the divine. Fasting from self-doubt encourages us to look inward and recognize the inner strength we often overlook. It reminds us of our inherent worth and our ability to achieve greatness. Fasting from negativity, we cleanse our thoughts and actions, making room for positivity and kindness. Fasting from anger nurtures patience, compassion, and forgiveness, while fasting from fear allows us to face our insecurities and boldly embrace the unknown. The nine days of Navratri offer an opportunity for transformation, where we reconnect with our higher selves and strive to become better versions of ourselves-more compassionate, confident, and spiritually attuned. Navratri is a time to retreat from the mind and connect with the soul, a period to truly experience the essence of the spirit.
This festival celebrates the glorification of the spirit within us, which has the power to eliminate negative traits like inertia, pride, obsession, cravings, and aversions. By turning inward during Navratri and tapping into the spirit, we can rise above these negative tendencies and awaken the positive qualities within, leaving us feeling uplifted and rejuvenated. Just as Durga conquered the demon Mahishasura, we are encouraged to confront our inner struggles and emerge victorious. Throughout these sacred days, we embark on a soulful journey, rising above the mundane aspects of life. Navratri reminds us that the battle between light and darkness, good and evil, takes place not only in the external world but also within us. By fasting from our inner demons, we align with the divine, embodying the true spirit of this magnificent festival.
May this Navratri be a time of deep self-discovery, healing, and spiritual awakening. Let us fast not only from food but from anything that hinders our connection with the divine. In the light of the Goddess’ grace, may we emerge as warriors of love, compassion, and inner peace.
(The author is a Faculty at Udhampur Campus University of Jammu)
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