Throughout the year Singapore celebrates various festivals of Indian, Chinese and Malay Origin. Singaporeans generally celebrate the festivals connected to their own respective race and religion, and though they may be special to a certain segment of the society it is held in a manner so that all Singaporeans get to enjoy it. Due to the various religious groups in the country, Singapore features so many festivities during the year. And the Navaratri is one such vibrant celebration.

Navrati is a festival celebrating the Hindu deity Shakti. The term Navarati has been derived from the Sanskrit terms of ‘nava’, which means nine, and ‘ratri’ which means night. The term suits the celebration perfectly as through nine nights, and of course ten days, nine forms of the deity Shakti are worshipped. The tenth and the final day is generally referred to as the Dussehra.

This festival is associated with the beginning of spring and autumn which are considered important times of the year where the change in the influence of the sun impacts the climate. Therefore the days of celebration are with accordance of the Hindu lunar Calendar. In celebrating the Navarathri, it is considered that it represents the Goddess Durga who manifests in the form of the deity Shakti. Usually according to the lunar calendar this festival is held five time of the year: Vasanta – during March and April for the spring season; Ashadha – during June and July; Sharada – during September and October for the beginning of winter; and Paush – during December and January.

The celebrations also take different forms. But in general it involves, fasting as well as feasting, dances, lighting of oil lamps, devotional songs, and decorated idols. It is also a time for prayers for health and prosperity as well as an auspicious time for new ventures.

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