The Start of Navratri

Navratri is the celebration of the overthrow of the demon Mahishasura by the goddess Durga Mata. Mahishasura, was a mighty demon who worshipped Lord Shiva and obtained a boon that prevented any gods or men to kill him. Soon, he started killing and harassing innocent people and set out to win all the three lokas. The gods in swargaloka appealed to Lord Shiva, to find a way to get rid of the demon. To protect the world from the atrocities of Mahishasura, the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva united their powers and created a divine female warrior, known as Goddess Durga. Durga Mata was neither man nor God allowing her to kill Mahishasura. The celebration of this victory is Navratri, a festival that spans over 9 days ending with Vijayadasami or otherwise known as Dusherra on the tenth day. Celebrations include garba, dandiya, puja, and fasts.