17/01/2020
Navarathri is celebrated not once, but five times a year — Vasanta Navarathri (from March-April), Ashadha Navarathri (June-July), Sharada Navarathri
(September-October), Paush Navarathri (December-January) and Basant Navarathri
(January-February).
People all over the world, especially in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Trinidad and United Kingdom also celebrate Navarathri with full fervour.
While Navarathri is mainly a Hindu festival, it is also mentioned in Sikh literature, especially the Dasam Granth, and also in Jainism.
The ways of worship are unique to different parts of India.
These series of posts cover the worship of Sri Mother in Southern part of India. The nine days of Navratri are covered one day in advance.
On the FIRST day of Navarathri, Durga is worshiped as Bala in the Kanya puja or as Maaheswari.
Sri Mother slayed the demons Madhu and Kaidaba on this day.
Jasmine flowers and Bilwa leaves are used to perform the puja.
Ven Pongal ( a form of Kichdi) and Karamani Sundal ( a type of boiled and seasoned channa) are usually offered as Naivedya for this day.
Songs are sung in Thodi raga to please the Goddess.
May the Blessings of Maa be with us