Navaratri, Sanskrit for “nine nights,” is a festival dedicated to the Divine Mother. The first three nights honor her as Durga, who helps us overcome inner obstacles and negative tendencies; the next three as Lakshmi, giver of noble virtues, spiritual wealth and inner peace; and the last three as Saraswati, source of knowledge, wisdom and creative expression.
The tenth day, Vijayadashami, is the day of victory and an auspicious time for new beginnings in learning (Vidyarambham). Programs include puja, chanting, bhajans and arati, and several are also streamed online.
Even in ordinary life, it is the mother who is the pillar of strength for the family. She imparts mental strength, good values, spiritual wealth, and the initial life lessons to her children. The cosmic embodiment of this concept of motherhood is represented as Jagadambā—the source and cause of the universe.
- Amma
