Navratri And Durga Puja: Understanding The Differences Between The Two Festivals

Navratri And Durga Puja are two of the most important Hindu festivals that are celebrated with a lot of devotion, joy and fervour across the country. ‘Nav’ means nine and ‘ratri’ means night and therefore, Navratri is celebrated over a period of nine days. During the nine days of Navratri, people worship the nine avatars of Goddess Durga. On the other hand, Durga Puja celebrates the victory of Maa Durga over Mahishasura, who was a powerful demon who could change his shape.

Navratri is widely celebrated in the Western states, Gujarat and Maharashtra and Durga Puja is celebrated in the eastern states, West Bengal, Jharkhand and Assam. While both of these festivals worship the divine feminine power, Maa Durga, both of them have certain differences. However, during both these festivals, families and friends come together to celebrate.

Here, take a look at the differences between Durga Puja and Navratri.

The Duration Of Celebration

Navratri is celebrated for nine days with each day dedicated to an avatar of Goddess Durga, while Durga Puja primarily focuses on the last five days of the festival which ends with the immersion of the Maa Durga’s idol on the tenth day which is also known as Vijayadashami.

Geographical Focus

Navratri is celebrated across India especially in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and North India, whereas Durga Puja is most popular in West Bengal, Assam, and other parts of eastern India.

The Cultural Elements

Navratri celebrations often include Garba and Dandiya Raas which are traditional folk dances whereas Durga Puja features pandals which have idols of Goddess Durga along with cultural programs, songs and performances.

The Religious Focus

During Navratri, worshippers honour the nine forms of Goddess Durga over the nine days, with each day symbolizing a different form of the goddess. In Durga Puja, the emphasis is primarily on Goddess Durga’s battle and victory over Mahishasura.

Fasting vs Feasting

Navratri is a period of fasting and spiritual reflection, with devotees abstaining from certain foods. Durga Puja, on the other hand, is a time for feasting and indulging in elaborate meals, especially in Bengal, where food plays a central role in the celebration.

The End

Navratri culminates on the ninth day which is known as Mahanavami, followed by Vijayadashami on the tenth day. In Durga Puja, the end is marked by Dashami when the idol of Goddess Durga is immersed in water which symbolizes her return to her celestial abode.