Navratri in the South: Unique, yet universally festive
Navratri, a prominent Hindu festival in India, varies by region. In the east, it's Durga Puja, while the north and west indulge in garba and dandiya raas dances. Many observe fasts during these nine days and consume special, sattvic foods. Navratri's reach extends to southern states, where various forms of Goddess Durga, especially Saraswati, are celebrated with grandeur transcending regional boundaries.
Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, Bathukamma
One of the enchanting Navratri rituals in these states is Bathukamma Padunga. A nine-day festival, Bathukamma is a vibrant celebration that pays tribute to the Goddess, marked by a colorful floral extravaganza. Women make flower stacks for several days, and on the last day, in a mesmerizing spectacle, they release them into a water body, embodying a deep connection to nature and history.
Tamil Nadu, Golu dolls
In Tamil Nadu, the first three days of Navratri are dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the next three days to Durga, and the last three days to Saraswati. Golu dolls, portraying mythological characters, animals, and people, adorn temples and homes on makeshift staircases called Kolu; they are passed on from many generations. Devotees visit the Mutharamman Temple in Kulasekharapattinam, in the guise of the Goddess.
Kerala, Poojavaippu
In Kerala, the final three days of Navratri hold significance. On Mahaashtami evening, Poojavaippu is performed. People worship Goddess Saraswati the following day offering her idol books and instruments. The last day, Vidhyarambam, features Puja Eduppu, where these items are removed, and children aged two to six are made to write alphabets on sand or rice, marking the beginning of their learning journey.
Karnataka, Mysore Dasara
Navratri in Karnataka aligns with Mysore Dasara, a festival dedicated to the Goddess Chamundeswari of Chamundi Hill. During Dussehra, the Mysore Palace is decorated with lights and flowers for the "Jamboo Savari" procession, featuring elephant parades, one carrying the Goddess. In various regions, people celebrate by placing beautifully adorned dolls in their homes and visiting their loved ones' houses, exchanging coconuts, garments, and sweets.
