Navratri v/s Durga Puja: What's the difference
Navratri and Durga Puja celebrated during the same time marking the beginning of India's grand festival season. Although both festivals are similar, there is a small difference between the two in terms of religious practices and festive atmosphere. While both are intended for worshipping various forms of Goddess Durga, the methods of celebration vary. Here's an understanding of the key differences between these two.
Regional differences
Goddess Durga's nine manifestations are worshipped during the nine-day celebration. Durga Puja is a major celebration in West Bengal and other eastern Indian states. Whereas, Navratri is celebrated primarily in the north and west of India. This year Navratri began on October 15 and will end on October 24. Meanwhile, Durga Puja will officially begin on October 20 and end on October 24.
Beginning of the festival
Shailputri, Maa Durga's initial avatar is worshipped to kick off the nine-day Navratri festival. On the other side, Mahalaya, the day the conflict between Goddess Durga and the demon king Mahishasura started, marks the beginning of the Durga Puja preparations and festivities. Goddess Durga engaged Mahishasura in combat for nine days before achieving her win, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
Fasting v/s feasting
During Navratri, followers typically refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food, onions, and garlic. In contrast, Durga Puja, the primary festival celebrated in Eastern India, embraces a rich culinary tradition that includes delectable non-vegetarian delights. This festival is a celebration of spirituality, the worship of Shakti, donning new attire, and enjoying the festivities with family, relishing a blend of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian Bengali cuisine.
Last-day celebrations
Raavan's effigies are burned on Dussehra, the last day of Navratri. Meanwhile, Durga Puja concludes with the immersion of the Maa Durga's idol after a ceremonious parade, where devotees dance to the rhythmic beats of dhaak, expressing their hopes for another year of joyous celebrations. Sindoor khela, a common ritual occurs before the immersion, where married women apply vermilion on each other.
