14 September, 2010

Hornbill Festival


Introduction:

The tribes of Nagaland celebrate their festivals with gusto and fervor. More than 60% of the population of Nagaland depends on
agriculture and therefore most of their festivals revolve round agriculture. They consider their festivals sacred and so participation in these festivals is compulsory.

Nagaland is known as the land of festivals as each tribe celebrates its own festival with dedication and passion. Some of the important festivals celebrated are: Tsukhenyie by the Chakhesangs in January, Mimkut by the Kukis in January, Bushu by the Kacharis in January, Sekrenyi by the Angamis in February, Aoling by the Konyaks in April, Moatsu by the Aos in May, Tuluni by the Sumis in July, Nyaknylum by the Changs in July, Tokhu Emong by the Lothas in November and Yemshe by the Pochurys in October.


To encourage inter-tribal interaction and to promote cultural heritage of Nagaland, the Government of Nagaland organizes the Hornbill Festival every year in the first week of December. 
Celebration:
Organized by the State Directorate of Tourism, Nagaland, Hornbill Festival showcases a mélange of cultural displays under one roof. This festival usually takes place between the 1st and the 5th of December in Kohima.
Hornbill Festival is held at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama which is about 12 km from Kohima. All the tribes of Nagaland take part in this festival. The aim of the festival is to revive and protect the rich culture of Nagaland and display its extravaganza and traditions.

For visitors it means a closer understanding of the people and culture of Nagaland. It must be included in your itinerary, if you are visiting Nagaland during that time to enjoy the food, song, dance and custom of Nagaland.

Important Features:


The Festival is named after the hornbill, the globally respected bird and which is displayed in folklore in most of the state’s tribes.

The week long festival unites one and all in Nagaland and people enjoy the colorful performances, crafts, sports, food fairs, games and religious ceremonies.Traditional arts which include paintings, wood carvings, and sculptures are also on display. Festival highlights include Traditional Naga Morungs Exhibition and sale of Arts and Crafts, Food Stalls, Herbal Medicine Stalls, Flower shows and sales, Cultural Medley-songs and dances, Fashion shows, Beauty Contest, Traditional Archery, Naga wrestling, Indigenous Games, and Musical Concert.

About Nagaland:

A vibrant state on the north-eastern end of India, Nagaland is bounded by Myanmar in the East; Assam in the West; Arunachal Pradesh and a part of Assam in the North with Manipur in the south.


It is the 16th state of the Indian Union and was formally inaugurated on December 1st, 1963. Folklore and music are integral parts of Nagaland’s tribal culture.

There are 16 tribes and sub tribes that live in Nagaland. Each tribe has its own distinguished costumes, jewelry and custom. Nagaland is a land of festivals and each tribe celebrates its own festival with loads of fun and gaiety. Most of the festivals revolve round agriculture as it is primarily an agrarian community.


13 September, 2010

Holla Mohalla

Introduction:

Holla Mohalla - a Sikh festival is celebrated every year in the month of March, a day after Holi. Hola "Mohalla" derives its name from Punjabi word “Mohalla” implies an organized Procession in the form of an army column accompanied by war drums and standard-bearers, and proceeding to a given location or moving in state from one Gurdwara to another.
Holla Mohalla:

The festival was started by the tenth Sikh Guru – Guru Govind Singh who had tried to gather Sikhs for military exercises and mock battles after Holi. This has now become a traditional annual festival of Sikhs held at Anandpur Sahib and Kiratpur Sahib in Punjab. The festival also marks the New Year as per lunar Nanakshahi calendar of Sikhs. It is celebrated over three days and it retains the character of fun and joy of Holi which concludes a day before.

Even today, Sikhs celebrate this festival joyfully by watching and performing in martial arts parades, led by the Nishan Sahibs of the Gurdwaras. Which is then, followed by poetry readings and music competitions. But viewing it closely might be risky for spectators as the participants who perform Holla Mohalla fight hard with one another even though they do not fight in reality. The celebration has been recognized as a National Festival by the Govt. of India and it is being celebrated in the state of Punjab since 1701.

History:

Holla Mohalla was first started on 1st March 1757 at Anandpur on Chet vadi. This custom was originated during the time of Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708) who held the first procession at Anandpur on Chet vadi. This was done to avert a grimmer struggle against imperial power following the battle of Ninnohgrah in 1700. Guru Sahib told his Sikhs wake up to their responsibility and duty as AKAAL PURAKH KI FAUJ (the Army of the Almighty) to defend the TRUTH and PROTECT society. Thus, the history of Holla Mollaha goes back to 1757 A.D.

Since then, Holla Mohalla has become a full fledged event held particularly in an open field near Holgarh Fort which is located in the northwest to the town of Anandpur. It is also believed to be started by Guru Gobind Singh where he accumulated all the Sikhs and encouraged them to perform various activities including Martial Arts etc.

Celebration:

Every Indian festival has its own charm of festivity; the Holla Mohalla festival has no exception to it. In Holla Mohalla, people accumulate in Anandpur Sahib, and enjoy the day with singing bhajans and seeing the famous pegging competitions of archery, fencing, riding and traditional function of wrestling. Other than these sports activities, they also savor the taste of delicious langars which is organized by sewadars as per Sikh tradition.
History

Moreover, the Guru Granth Sahib is given the holy bath with milk and water after which kirtan and religious lectures take place in various gurudwara’s located in Punjab and various other places in India and abroad. After this ritual, Karah Prasad is distributed. Raw materials like wheat flour, rice, vegetables, milk and sugar are provided by the villagers living nearby. Women volunteers take part in cooking the Prasad and also cleaning the utensils. Traditional cuisines are served to the pilgrims who eat while sitting in rows on the ground.

The Nihangs are the highlights of this festival as they’re dressed in most impressive attire such as in deep blue robes with saffron girdles, high conical turbans decorated with steel rings, flowing beards, twisted moustaches and carry spears and swords as weapons for battle.

The other attractions of the Holla Mohalla celebrations are:

Wrestling: Started as a tradition by the followers of Guru Hargobindji within boundaries of Akal Takht Sahib and it is mostly his boost that wrestling as a sport made Punjab its birth place. Over 60 years ago, Grewal Sports Association had begun to give prices in this sport. However, today this sport is practiced in almost 7000 villages of Punjab.

The other sports activities on Holla Mohalla include Archery, Kabaddi, Weight-Lifting, Cycling, Football, Acrobatics and twisting an iron-rod by placing it on Adam’s apple, etc.

Thus, for all these games, various sports meet are also organized namely Kila Raipur Sports meet the Kalgidar Tournament of Kamalpur, Dhudike’s Lala Lajpat Rai Memorial Sports Fair, Sahnewal, Mullanpur, Dahambo, etc are flourishing. Other than these there’re small sports meet such as, Lalto Kalan, Dhurkot, Rauni, Rurka Kalan,etc. . Locals however, like to size-up the skill and power of their animals by performing Bullockcart racing, Hound-Racing, Bull-Fighting, Cock-Fighting, Pigeon Fights.

Many other activities such as music competitions are also held during this occasion. Music is regarded to be the soul of Punjab and this is why it is practiced in each and every part of the state. But only the best ones are remembered among which the famous competitions are held between Karamjit Dhuri and Jagmohan Kaur.

All these festivities come to an end with a day long pageant, which starts from Takth Keshgarh Sahib led by Panj Pyaras and passes through various important Gurudwara’s of the village.

Hanuman Jayanti

In Hindu mythology, Shri Hanuman is regarded as the God of power, strength and knowledge. He is known as the ‘param bhakt’ of lord Rama and is the incarnation of Lord Shiva. He was born to Kesari and Anjani on the Chaitra Shukla Purnima (Chaitra Shukla Purnima is the Full Moon Day on the Hindu Calendar Month of Chaitra) that is why, he is known as ‘KESERI NANDAN’ and ‘ANJANEYA’. The philosophy of epic Ramayana is incomplete without the understanding of the unfathomable devotion of Lord Hanuman for Shri Rama. 


As Hindu Mythology says, He was the incarnation of Lord Shiva the God of Destruction, the Third god of Hindu trinity (All this universe is in the glory of God, of Shiva, the God of Love. The heads and faces of men are His own and He is in the hearts of all - Yajur Veda).

Lord Hanuman is regarded to be the son of Hindu deity ‘VAYU’ (the wind). He was taken by 'Vayu' to Lord Sun to gain Vedic, shastra's and moral knowledge. He gained his whole knowledge from Lord Sun, as he was considered as omniscient on the planet earth.


As per the mythology, Hanuman ji is invincible and blessed to be immortal. The supremacy possessed by him is very beautifully described in Ramayana, during the Ramayana war of Lord Rama against the mighty Ravana. The Sundara Kanda, the fifth book in the Ramayana, focuses mainly on the adventures of Hanuman.

Celebrations
This holy day starts with rituals mainly performed in Hanuman Temples all over India. As people visit temples to perform rituals and there they attend bhajans, satsangas and read out aloud ‘Hanuman Chalisa’. They also spend the entire day reciting certain ‘Japa’ of RAM-NAM, SRI HANUMAN.

Hanuman's birth is an auspicious day for the entire Hindu community as they mark their gratitude for Lord Hanuman and regard him as the god of strength and numerous people along with their families visit temples to mark homage to Lord Hanuman on this very festival.

The celebrations are held at the world famous Salasar Temple which is situated at the Salasar town in Churu District of Rajasthan which is 55 kms from Sikar town where lakhs of devotees come from all over to offer their prayers to Lord Hanuman. A similar festival is also celebrated at the Mehndipur Temple which is situated near the Jaipur - Agra Highway at about 110 kms from Jaipur.

A specially prepared Bhoga or Prasad which is known as Churma is offered to Lord Hanuman on this day. At many places special made chariots are taken out in procession by Bhajans chanting groups.
 
Lord Hanuman's name:
Scholars argue that immediately after the birth ofHanuman his mother Anjana named him Sunder (handsome boy) as he was extremely charming owing to the Divine Power imbibedin him. In support of this supposition a number or scholars say that the fifthchapter of the Ramayana which highlights the great and glorious deeds ofHanuman has been entitled as Sunder Kand (soalso in Valmiki Ramayana).
Names of Hanuman
  • Anjaneya
  • : Son of Anjana

  • Anjanagarbhasambhoota
  • : Born of Anjani
  • Ashokavanikachhetre
  • :Destroyer of Ashoka Grove
  • Akshahantre
  • : Slayerof Aksha
  • Balarka Sadrushanana
  • : Likethe Rising Sun
  • Bheemasenasahayakrute
  • : Helperof Bheema
  • Batnasiddhikara
  • : Granterof Strength
  • Bhakthavatsala
  • :Protector of Devotees
  • Bajrangbali
  • : Withstrength of diamod
  • Bhavishya Chaturanana
  • : Aware of Future Happenings
  • Chanchaladwala
  • :Glittering Tail Suspended Above The Head.
  • Chiranjeevini
  • : Eternal Being
  • Chaturbahave
  • : Four-Armed
  • Dashabahave
  • :Ten-Armed
  • Danta
  • : Calm
  • Dheera
  • : Valiant
  • Deenabandhave
  • :Protector of the Downtrodden
  • Daithyakulantaka
  • :Destroyer of Demons
  • Daityakarya Vidhyataka
  • :Destroyer of All Demons' Activities
  • Dhruddavrata
  • :Strong-Willed Meditator.
  • Dashagreevakulantaka
  • : Slayerof the Ten-Headed Ravana Race
  • Gandharvavidya Tatvangna
  • :Exponent in the Art of Celestials
  • Gandhamadhana Shailastha
  • : Dwellerof Gandhamadhana
  • Hanumanta
  • : PuffyCheeks
  • Indrajit Prahitamoghabrahmastra Vinivaraka
  • : Removerof the Effect of Indrajit's Brahmastra
  • Jambavatpreeti Vardhana
  • : WinningJambavan's Love
  • JaiKapeesh
  • : HailMonkey
  • Kapeeshwara
  • : Lord ofMonkeys
  • Kabalikruta
  • :Swallower of the Sun
  • Kapisenanayaka
  • : Chiefof the Monkey Army
  • Kumarabrahmacharine
  • :Youthful Bachelor
  • Kesarinandan
  • : Son ofKesari
  • Kesarisuta
  • : Son ofKesari
  • Kalanemi Pramathana
  • : Slayerof Kalanemi
  • Harimarkatamarkata
  • : Lord ofMonkeys
  • Karagrahavimoktre
  • : One whoFrees from Imprisonment
  • Kalanabha
  • :Controller of Time
  • Kanchanabha
  • :Golden-Hued Body
  • Kamaroopine
  • :Changing Form at Will
  • Lankineebhanjana
  • : Slayerof Lankini
  • Lakshmanapranadatre
  • : Reviverof Lakshmana's Life
  • Lankapuravidahaka
  • : He WhoBurnt Lanka
  • Lokapujya
  • :Worshipped by the Universe
  • Maruti
  • :Son o fMarut (wind god)
  • Mahadhyuta
  • : MostRadiant
  • Mahakaya
  • :Gigantic
  • Manojavaya
  • : SpeedLike Wind
  • Mahatmane
  • : SupremeBeing
  • Mahavira
  • : MostValiant
  • Marutatmaja
  • : MostBeloved Like Gems
  • Mahabala Parakrama
  • : OfGreat Strength
  • Mahatejase
  • : MostRadiant
  • Maharavanamardana
  • : Slayerof the Famous Ravana
  • Mahatapase
  • : GreatMeditator
  • Navavyakruti Pandita
  • : SkilfulScholar
  • Parthadhwajagrasamvasine
  • : HavingForemost Place on Arjuna's Flag
  • Pragnya
  • : Scholar
  • Prasannatmane
  • :Cheerful
  • Pratapavate
  • : Knownfor Valour
  • Paravidhyaparihara
  • :Destroyer of Enemies Wisdom
  • Parashaurya Vinashana
  • : Destroyerof Enemy's Valour
  • Parijata Tarumoolastha
  • : ResiderUnder the Parijata Tree
  • Prabhave
  • : PopularLord
  • Paramantra Nirakartre
  • :Acceptor of Rama's Mantra Only
  • Pingalaksha
  • :Pink-Eyed
  • Pavanputra
  • : Son ofWind god
  • Panchavaktra
  • :Five-Faced
  • Parayantra Prabhedaka
  • :Destroyer of Enemies' Missions
  • Ramasugreeva Sandhatre
  • :Mediator between Rama and Sugreeva
  • Ramakathalolaya
  • : Crazyof listening Rama's Story
  • Ratnakundala Deeptimate
  • : WearingGem-Studded Earrings
  • Rudraveerya Samudbhava
  • : Born ofShiva
  • Ramachudamaniprada
  • :Deliverer of Rama's Ring
  • Ramabhakta
  • : Devotedto Rama
  • Ramadhuta
  • :Ambassador of Rama
  • Rakshovidhwansakaraka
  • : Slayerof Demons
  • Sankatamochanan
  • : Reliever of sorrows
  • Sitadevi Mudrapradayaka
  • :Deliverer of the Ring of Sita
  • Sarvamayavibhanjana
  • :Destroyer of All Illsions
  • Sarvabandha Vimoktre
  • :Detacher of all Relationship
  • Sarvagraha Nivashinay
  • : Killerof Evil Effects of Planets
  • Sarvaduhkhahara
  • :Reliever of all Agonies
  • Sarvalolkacharine
  • :Wanderer of all Places
  • Sarvamantra Swaroopavate
  • :Possessor of all Hymns

Sarvatantra Sawaroopine: Shapeof all Hymns
Sarvayantratmaka: Dwellerin all Yantras
Sarvarogahara:Reliever of all Ailments
Sarvavidhyasampath Pradayaka: Granterof Knowledge and Wisdom
Shrunkalabandhamochaka: Relieverfrom a Chain of Distresses
Sitashoka Nivarana:Destroyer of Sita's Sorrow
Shrimate: Revered
Simhikaprana Bhanjana: Slayerof Simhika
Sugreeva Sachiva:Minister of Sugreeva
Shoora: Bold
Surarchita:Worshipped by Celestials
Sphatikabha:Crystal-Clear
Sanjeevananagahatre: Bearerof Sanjeevi Mount
Shuchaye: Chaste
Shanta: VeryComposed
Shatakanttamadapahate:Destroyer of Shatakantta's Arrogance
Sitanveshana Pandita: Skilfulin finding Sita's Whereabouts
Sharapanjarabhedaka: Destroyerof the Nest made of Arrows
Sitaramapadaseva: AlwaysEngrossed in Rama's Service
Sagarotharaka: LeaptAcross the Ocean

Tatvagyanaprada: Granter of Wisdom
Vanara: Monkey
Vibheeshanapriyakara: Belovedof Vibheeshana
Vajrakaya: SturdyLike Metal

Vardhimainakapujita:Worshipped by Mynaka Hill
Vagmine:Spolesman
Vijitendriya:Controller of the Senses
Vajranakha:Strong-Nailed
Vagadheeksha: Lord ofSpokesmen


108 names recitations of Lord Hanuman:

  1. Om Anjaneyaya Namaha
  2. Om Mahaviraya Namaha
  3. Om Hanumate Namaha
  4. Om Marutatmajaya Namaha
  5. Om Tatvagyanapradaya Namaha
  6. Om Sitadevimudrapradayakaya Namaha
  7. Om Ashokavanakachchhetre Namaha
  8. Om SarvamayavibhaNjanaya Namaha
  9. Om Sarvabandhavimoktre Namaha
  10. Om RaxovidhvaNsakarakaya Namaha
  11. Om Paravidya Pariharaya Namaha
  12. Om Para Shaurya Vinashakaya Namaha
  13. Om Paramantra Nirakartre Namaha
  14. Om Parayantra Prabhedakaya Namaha
  15. Om Sarvagraha Vinashine Namaha
  16. Om Bhimasena SahayakrIthe Namaha
  17. Om Sarvadukhah Haraya Namaha
  18. Om Sarvalokacharine Namaha
  19. Om Manojavaya Namaha
  20. Om Parijata Drumulasthaya Namaha
  21. Om Sarva Mantra Svarupaya Namaha
  22. Om Sarva Tantra Svarupine Namaha
  23. Om Sarvayantratmakaya Namaha
  24. Om Kapishvaraya Namaha
  25. Om Mahakayaya Namaha
  26. Om Sarvarogaharaya Namaha
  27. Om Prabhave Namaha
  28. Om Bala Siddhikaraya Namaha
  29. Om Sarvavidya Sampattipradayakaya Namaha
  30. Om Kapisenanayakaya Namaha
  31. Om Bhavishhyathchaturananaya Namaha
  32. Om Kumara Brahmacharine Namaha
  33. Om Ratnakundalaya Namaha
  34. Om Diptimate Namaha
  35. Om Chanchaladvalasannaddhaya Namaha
  36. Om Lambamanashikhojvalaya Namaha
  37. Om Gandharva Vidyaya Namaha
  38. Om Tatvajnaya Namaha
  39. Om Mahabala Parakramaya Namaha
  40. Om Karagraha Vimoktre Namaha
  41. Om ShrInkhala Bandhamochakaya Namaha
  42. Om Sagarottarakaya Namaha
  43. Om Pragyaya Namaha
  44. Om Ramadutaya Namaha
  45. Om Pratapavate Namaha
  46. Om Vanaraya Namaha
  47. Om Kesarisutaya Namaha
  48. Om Sitashoka Nivarakaya Namaha
  49. Om Anjanagarbha Sambhutaya Namaha
  50. Om Balarkasadrashananaya Namaha
  51. Om Vibhishhana Priyakaraya Namaha
  52. Om Dashagriva Kulantakaya Namaha
  53. Om Laxmanapranadatre Namaha
  54. Om Vajra Kayaya Namaha
  55. Om Mahadyuthaye Namaha
  56. Om ChiraNjivine Namaha
  57. Om Rama Bhaktaya Namaha
  58. Om Daitya Karya Vighatakaya Namaha
  59. Om Axahantre Namaha
  60. Om Kajnchanabhaya Namaha
  61. Om Pajnchavaktraya Namaha
  62. Om Maha Tapase Namaha
  63. Om Lankini Bhajnjanaya Namaha
  64. Om Shrimate Namaha
  65. Om Simhika Prana Bhanjanaya Namaha
  66. Om Gandhamadana Shailasthaya Namaha
  67. Om LaNkapura Vidayakaya Namaha
  68. Om Sugriva Sachivaya Namaha
  69. Om Dhiraya Namaha
  70. Om Shuraya Namaha
  71. Om Daityakulantakaya Namaha
  72. Om Suvarchalarchitaya Namaha
  73. Om Tejase Namaha
  74. Om Ramachudamanipradayakaya Namaha
  75. Om Kamarupine Namaha
  76. Om Pingalaxaya Namaha
  77. Om Vardhi Mainaka Pujitaya Namaha
  78. Om KabalikrIta Martanda Mandalaya Namaha
  79. Om Vijitendriyaya Namaha
  80. Om Ramasugriva Sandhatre Namaha
  81. Om Mahiravana Mardhanaya Namaha
  82. Om Sphatikabhaya Namaha
  83. Om Dinabandhuraya Namaha
  84. Om Mayatmane Namaha
  85. Om Bhaktavatsalaya Namaha
  86. Om SaNjivananagayartha Namaha
  87. Om Suchaye Namaha
  88. Om Vagmine Namaha
  89. Om DrIdhavrataya Namaha
  90. Om Kalanemi Pramathanaya Namaha
  91. Om Harimarkata Markataya Namaha
  92. Om Dantaya Namaha
  93. Om Shantaya Namaha
  94. Om Prasannatmane Namaha
  95. Om Shatakantamudapahartre Namaha
  96. Om Yogine Namaha
  97. Om Ramakatha Lolaya Namaha
  98. Om Sitanveshana Pathitaya Namaha
  99. Om Vajradranushhtaya Namaha
  100. Om Vajranakhaya Namaha
  101. Om Rudra Virya Samudbhavaya Namaha
  102. Om Indrajitprahitamoghabrahmastra Vinivarakaya Namaha
  103. Om Partha Dhvajagrasamvasine Namaha
  104. Om Sharapamjarabhedhakaya Namaha
  105. Om Dashabahave Namaha
  106. Om Lokapujyaya Namaha
  107. Om Jambavatpritivardhanaya Namaha
  108. Om Sitasameta Shriramapada Sevadurandharaya Namaha
Hanuman Chalisa

In Hindu mythology the described bravery and prowess of Lord Hanuman is trusted and worshiped by the Hindus with the recitation of the couplets of Hanuman Chalisa Which is considered to be one of the top most couplets ever written to scare away the evil.

Shri Hanuman Chalisa
Shri Guru Charan Saroj RajAfter cleansing the mirror of my mind with the pollen
Nij mane mukure sudhardust of holy Guru's Lotus feet. I Profess the pure,
Varnao Raghuvar Vimal Jasuuntainted glory of Shri Raghuvar which bestows the four-
Jo dayaku phal charfold fruits of life.(Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha).
Budhi Hin Tanu JanikeFully aware of the deficiency of my intelligence, I
Sumirau Pavan Kumarconcentrate my attention on Pavan Kumar and humbly
Bal budhi Vidya dehu moheask for strength, intelligence and true knowledge to
Harahu Kalesa Vikarrelieve me of all blemishes, causing pain.
Jai Hanuman gyan gun sagarVictory to thee, O'Hanuman! Ocean of Wisdom-All
Jai Kapis tihun lok ujagar
hail to you O'Kapisa! (fountain-head of power,wisdomand Shiva-Shakti) You illuminate all the three worlds(Entire cosmos) with your glory.
Ram doot atulit bal dhamaYou are the divine messenger of Shri Ram. The
Anjani-putra Pavan sut nama
repository of immeasurable strength, though known only as Son of Pavan (Wind), born of Anjani.
Mahavir Vikram BajrangiWith Limbs as sturdy as Vajra (The mace of God Indra)
Kumati nivar sumati Ke sangiyou are valiant and brave. On you attends good Sense and Wisdom. You dispel the darkness of evil thoughts.
Kanchan varan viraj subesaYour physique is beautiful golden coloured and your dress
Kanan Kundal Kunchit Kesais pretty. You wear ear rings and have long curly hair.
Hath Vajra Aur Dhuvaje VirajeYou carry in your hand a lightening bolt along with a victory
Kandhe moonj janehu sajai(kesari) flag and wear the sacred thread on your shoulder.
Sankar suvan kesri NandanAs a descendant of Lord Sankar, you are a comfort and pride
Tej pratap maha jag vandan
of Shri Kesari. With the lustre of your Vast Sway, you are propitiated all over the universe.
Vidyavan guni ati chaturYou are the repository of learning, virtuous and fully accom-
Ram kaj karibe ko aaturplished, always keen to carry out the behest's of Shri Ram.
Prabu charitra sunibe ko rasiyaYou are an ardent listener, always so keen to listen to the
Ram Lakhan Sita man Basiya
narration of Shri Ram's Life Stories. Your heart is filled with what Shri Ram stood for. You therefore always dwell in the hearts of Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita.
Sukshma roop dhari Siyahi dikhavaYou appeared before Sita in a Diminutive form and spoke to
Vikat roop dhari lanka jaravaher in humility. You assumed an awesome form and struck terror by setting Lanka on fire.
Bhima roop dhari asur sanghareWith over-whelming might you destroyed the Asuras
Ramachandra ke kaj sanvare
(demons) and performed all tasks assigned to you by Shri Ram with great skill.
Laye Sanjivan Lakhan JiyayeYou brought Sanjivan (A herb that revives life) and restored
Shri Raghuvir Harashi ur layeLakshman back to life, Shri Raghuvir (Shri Ram) cheerfully embraced you with his heart full of joy.
Raghupati Kinhi bahut badaiShri Raghupati (Shri Ram) lustily extolled your excellence and
Tum mam priye Bharat-hi sam bhaisaid: "You are as dear to me as my own brother Bharat."
Sahas badan tumharo yash gaaveThousands of living beings are chanting hymns of your glories;
Us kahi Shripati kanth lagaavesaying thus, Shri Ram warmly hugged him (Shri Hanuman).
Sankadik Brahmadi MuneesaWhen prophets like Sanka, even the Sage like Lord Brahma,
Narad Sarad sahit Aheesa
the great hermit Narad himself, Goddess Saraswati and Ahisha (one of immeasurable dimensions).
Yam Kuber Digpal Jahan teEven Yamraj (God of Death) Kuber (God of Wealth) and the Digpals (deputies guarding the four corners of the Universe) have been vying with one another in offering homage to your glories. How then, can a mere poet give adequate expression of your super excellence.
Kavi kovid kahi sake kahan te
Tum upkar Sugreevahin keenhaYou rendered a great service to Sugriv. You united him with
Ram milaye rajpad deenhaShri Ram and he installed him on the Royal Throne. By heeding
Tumharo mantra Vibheeshan manayour advice, Vibhishan became Lord of Lanka. This is known
Lankeshwar Bhaye Sub jag janaall over the Universe.
Yug sahastra jojan par BhanuOn your own you dashed upon the Sun, which is at a fabulous
Leelyo tahi madhur phal janudistance of thousands of miles, thinking it to be a sweet luscious fruit.
Prabhu mudrika meli mukh maheeCarrying the Lord's Signet Ring in your mouth, there is
Jaladhi langhi gaye achraj naheehardly any wonder that you easily leapt across the ocean.
Durgaam kaj jagat ke jeteThe burden of all difficult tasks of the world become light
Sugam anugraha tumhre tetewith your kind grace.
Ram dware tum rakhvare,You are the sentry at the door of Shri Ram's Divine Abode.
Hoat na agya binu paisareNo one can enter it without your permission,
Sub sukh lahai tumhari sarnaAll comforts of the world lie at your feet. The devotees enjoy all
Tum rakshak kahu ko dar nadivine pleasures and feel fearless under your benign Protection.
Aapan tej samharo aapaiYou alone are befitted to carry your own splendid valour. All the
Teenhon lok hank te kanpaithree worlds (entire universe) tremor at your thunderous call.
Bhoot pisach Nikat nahin aavaiAll the ghosts, demons and evil forces keep away, with the
Mahavir jab naam sunavaisheer mention of your great name, O'Mahaveer!!
Nase rog harai sab peeraAll diseases, pain and suffering disappear on reciting regularly
Japat nirantar Hanumant beeraShri Hanuman's holy name.
Sankat se Hanuman chudavaiThose who remember Shri Hanuman in thought, words and deeds
Man Karam Vachan dyan jo lavaiwith Sincerity and Faith, are rescued from all crises in life.
Sub par Ram tapasvee rajaAll who hail, worship and have faith in Shri Ram as the Supreme
Tin ke kaj sakal Tum sajaLord and the king of penance. You make all their difficult tasks very easy.
Aur manorath jo koi lavaiSohi amit jeevan phal pavai
Whosoever comes to you for fulfillment of any desire with faith and sincerity, Will he alone secure the imperishable fruit of human life.
Charon Yug partap tumharaAll through the four ages your magnificent glory is acclaimed far
Hai persidh jagat ujiyaraand wide. Your fame is Radiantly acclaimed all over the Cosmos.
Sadhu Sant ke tum RakhwareYou are Saviour and the guardian angel of Saints and Sages and
Asur nikandan Ram dulharedestroy all Demons. You are the angelic darling of Shri Ram.
Ashta sidhi nav nidhi ke dhataYou can grant to any one, any yogic power of Eight Siddhis
Us var deen Janki mata(power to become light and heavy at will) and Nine Nidhis (Riches,comfort,power,prestige,fame,sweet relationship etc.) This boon has been conferred upon you by Mother Janki.
Ram rasayan tumhare pasaYou possess the power of devotion to Shri Ram. In all rebirths
Sada raho Raghupati ke dasayou will always remain Shri Raghupati's most dedicated disciple.
Tumhare bhajan Ram ko pavaiThrough hymns sung in devotion to you, one can find Shri Ram
Janam janam ke dukh bisravaiand become free from sufferings of several births.
Anth kaal Raghuvir pur jayeeIf at the time of death one enters the Divine Abode of Shri Ram,
Jahan janam Hari-Bakht Kahayeethereafter in all future births he is born as the Lord's devotee.
Aur Devta Chit na dharehiOne need not entertain any other deity for Propitiation, as
Hanumanth se hi sarve sukh karehidevotion of Shri Hanuman alone can give all happiness.
Sankat kate mite sab peeraOne is freed from all the sufferings and ill fated contingencies of
Jo sumirai Hanumat Balbeerarebirths in the world. One who adores and remembers Shri Hanuman.
Jai Jai Jai Hanuman GosahinHail, Hail, Hail, Shri Hanuman, Lord of senses. Let your victory
Kripa Karahu Gurudev ki nyahin
over the evil be firm and final. Bless me in the capacity as my supreme guru (teacher).
Jo sat bar path kare kohiOne who recites Chalisa one hundred times, becomes free from the
Chutehi bandhi maha sukh hohibondage of life and death and enjoys the highest bliss at last.
Jo yah padhe Hanuman ChalisaAll those who recite Hanuman Chalisa (The forty Chaupais)
Hoye siddhi sakhi Gaureesaregularly are sure to be benedicted. Such is the evidence of no less a witness as Bhagwan Sankar.
Tulsidas sada hari cheraTulsidas as a bonded slave of the Divine Master, stays perpetually at
Keejai Das Hrdaye mein derahis feet, he prays "Oh Lord! You enshrine within my heart & soul."
Pavantnai sankat haran,Oh! conqueror of the Wind, Destroyer of all miseries, you are a
Mangal murti roop.symbol of Auspiciousness.
Ram Lakhan Sita sahit,Along with Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita, reside in my heart.
Hrdaye basahu sur bhoop.Oh! King of Gods.

Shri Hanuman Arti

Aarti Bajrangbali Ki:
arti kiyiye hanuman lala ki, duhst dalan ragunath kala ki,
Jake bal se girdhar kapen, rug dosh jake nikat na jhake,
Anjani putra maha baldayi, santan ke prabhu sada sahaii
De bida raghunath pdhayae,lanka jari siya sudhi laye,
Lanka so kott samudra si khayi, jat pawan sut war na layi,
Lanka jari ansuri sab mare, sita ram ji ke kaj sanvare,
Laxman morchit pade dharni mein, laye sanjevan pran ubare,
Padhi patal turi jamkare, ahiravan ki bhuja okhare,
Baii bhuja ansur sab mare, dahin bhuja sant ubare,
Sur nar muni jan arti utare, jai jai jai hanuman ucharee,
Kanchan thal kapoor ki bati, arti karat anjana mai,
Jo hanuman ji ki arti gavaen, basi baekunth param pad pave,
Lank vidhvans kiye raghurai, tulsidas swami kirti gayi.


 

12 September, 2010

Navratri


Introduction:

Navratri, the festival of nine nights is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. According to the Hindu calendar, Navratri begins from the first day of the bright fortnight of Ashwin which usually coincides with the end of the rainy season.


The nine days have great religious significance as Goddess Durga, the divine mother, had destroyed the evil force (in the form of the demon Mahisashura) during this period.

The festival is celebrated with true devotion and purity all over the country. People from various sections of the society irrespective of caste and creed celebrate this festival by visiting temples and offering pujas at the Mother’s feet.

In some places special puja samarohas are also held by setting the images of Mother Durga on beautifully decorated pandals. Temples dedicated to Shakti also make arrangement for pujas and bratas to mark these nine days as true symbols of devotion and adoration towards the divine mother.

Legends:

Navaratri is an amalgamation of various themes, with the common theme of the victory of good over evil. According to some legends, Vijayadashami or Dusshera is celebrated on the day Lord Ram kills Ravana.

According to a Puranic legend, the mighty demon Mahishasura defeated the gods and their king,Indra.

They then approached Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar, who decided to destroy the demon. So they all combined their energies, and gave rise to Shakti and appealed to Goddess Durga to come to their aid.


Equipped with lethal weapons and riding a ferocious lion, the Goddess in all her awesome majesty, destroyed the evil one without much ado. The 10th day, on which the goddess kills Mahishasura, is celebrated as Dusshera or Vijayadashami as the victory of good over evil. Dusshera (tenth day) is one of the significant Hindu festivals, celebrated with pomp and fervor all over the country.

On the tenth day, the Vijayadasmi day, colossal effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnadh are placed in vast open spaces. Rama, accompanied by Sita and his brother Lakshmana, arrive and shoot arrows of fire at these effigies. The result is a deafening blast, enhanced by slogans of triumph.

Celebration:

The festival is also celebrated with intense fervor and zest, in whole of India, in the form of Durga Puja. The vibrant festivities last for ten days, of which nine nights are spent in worship. But the celebrations vary from place to place.

Gujarat and western India:

The most famous Navaratri celebrations are held in the western states of India (Gujarat and Maharashtra). Traditional dances in the form of Dandiya and Garba take place almost everywhere. The dancers move around in a circle, with different steps around a lamp, which signifies the Eternal Light of the Durga.
Generally Gujarati men and women wearing colorful dresses dance around in a circle by clapping their hands or decorated sticks to the rhythm of the devotional songs. After worshipping and 'Aarti', 'Dandiya raas' is performed all through the night.

In Maharashtra, celebrations are slightly different. Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Durga while the Vijayadashami is dedicated to Saraswati, the Goddess of Knowledge. Here, this day is considered auspicious to start education, buy new homes, and start new ventures.

West Bengal:

In West-Bengal, Navaratri is celebrated in the form of Durga Puja. This festival is essentially religious in nature. Celebrated with true devotion, huge idols of the Goddess Durga posed as killing the demon Mahishasura are worshipped everywhere in West Bengal. Huge 'pandals' are set up every where and devotees in large numbers visit to worship Goddess Durga. Men and women and children all dressed up in new clothes visit different ‘pandals’ to offer prayers to the Mother Goddess.

Himachal Pradesh:

In the Kulu valley of Himachal Pradesh, the hill-folk celebrate Dasara with a grand mass ceremony. On the day of Dusshera, village deities are taken out in elaborate processions.

Tamil Nadu:

In Tamil Nadu, the first three days are dedicated to the worship of Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. During this time they perform puja every night and regular cleaning is maintained all throughout because it is believed that Lakshmi would not enter if the place is dirty. The next three days are devoted to Saraswati, the Goddess of learning and arts and the last three days to Shakti (Durga).

Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh:


In Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, women arrange 'Bommai Kolu', a special placing of dolls in various costumes decorated with flowers and ornaments on specially prepared steps. Nine young 'kanyas' or virgins are offered new clothes and sweets as the goddesses and married women share flowers, kumkum and snacks among themselves.

The Dusshera of Mysore is also quite famous where decorated elephants lead a colourful procession through the gaily-dressed streets of the city. During Navaratri Chamundi, the royal deity of the Mysore royalty is worshipped with pomp and religious fervor.

Punjab:

Navratri is celebrated in Punjab by fasting for seven days. On the eighth day or Ashtami, the fast is broken by worshipping young girls who are believed to symbolize the Goddess herself. This festival is predominantly linked with harvest. The young girls are offered puris (sort of deep-fried Indian bread), halwa (a dessert primarily made of flour and sugar), chanas (Bengal gram) and red chunnis (long scarves).

Navratri puja:

Navratri is celebrated twice in a year.One after the festival of Holi in the month of Chaitra Shukla Paksha from Ekam (First day) to Navmi (Ninth day). These are called Vasanth Navratri. In this, prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu.

Once before Dussehra in the month of Ashwin Shukla Paksha on Ekam (first Day) to Navmi (9th day). These are called Sharadeeya Navratri. In these nine days of Navratri, we pray to Durga Maa.

On the eight day of this Navratri, Durga Maa was born, hence her puja on this day is of special significance.

These nine days also have a special significance for unmarried girls.

Preparation for the puja:

- Picture or image of Durga Maa

- Durga Sapthashati book, Devi’s armour

- Water in a kalash, mango leaves, coconut

- Roli, moli, chawal, paan, betl nut.

- Cloves, cardamom, sindoor, abhir, gulal

- Dhoop, deepak, matchsticks

- Flowers such as hibiscus, lotus, roses and belpatr leaves

- Fruits such as pomegranate and sweets such as laddoo and peda

- Panchpatra containing spoon and water, pata, mat to sit (Aasan)

Jhuwara is grown - On the first day of Navratri, take a large earthen pot with a wide mouth, put some sand in it and plant either jaun or wheat kernels which have been soaked the previous night. Every day a little water is sprinkled over them and they are put in sunlight for a short time for germination.

Vidhi / Method of performing puja:


Place the kalash by putting wheat grains on the pata, fill water in the kalash, place live mango tree leaves in the mouth of the kalash and put a coconut in the middle, Moli is tied on the neck ofthe kalash.

Place Durga Maa’s image on the pata and worship with roli, rice, flowers, belpatr, sindoor, abhir and gulal.

Maa ki jyoti lena:

Take a small clay pot, add a burning coal to the pot, pour ghee over the coal and offer a small piece of laddoo, peda or halwa. Keep adding ghee at intervals. The higher the flame the more auspicious it is. This jyoti / light has to be maintained throughout the puia. At the conclusion, fold your hands and circle them around the jyoti.

Light dhoop and deepak:

Perform Durga Saptashati or Devi Kavach (hymn invoking Devi's protection) either yourself or by a Pundit.

Some people go to the temple for these nine days to perform the puia.

Many people fast on this Day. At least one meal should be a phalaahaar and the other can be with cereal.

Many people conclude the puja on the 8th day by doing Devi ki Kadhai. On this day, Maa ki jyoti is taken with halwa. You should make atta halwa, chawal ki kheer, puri, kaala chana (black grain) and one or two vegetables. Unmarried girls are invited for meal. After the food, the girls are given some fruits and money as Dakshina.

Some people do Devi ki Kadhai on the 9th day.

‘Durga Stuti’ is sung:

“Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu shri rupen sansthita
namas tasye namas tasye names tasye namo namah”
 
‘Durga Maa ki Aarti’ is sung:

Jai Ambe Gauri, Mayya Jai Shyama Gauri...
Tumko Nishidin Dhyavat, Tumko Sabdin Sevat, Hari Brahma Shivji... Jai!!

Manga Sindoor Virajat, Teeko Mrigmad Ko, Maiya Teeko Mrigmad Ko...
Ujjwal Se Dou Naina, Ujjwal Se Dou Naina, Chandra Vadan Neeko… Jai!!

Kanak Saman Kalevar, Raktambar Raje, Maiya Raktambar Raje…
Raktapushpa Galmala, Lalpushpa Galmala, Kantahan Har Saje… Jai!!
s
Kehari Vahan Rajat, Khadag Khappar Dhari, Maiya Khadag Khappar Dhari…
Sur Nar Munijan Sewat, Sur Nar Munijan Sewat, Tinke Dukkhahari… Jai!!

Kanan Kundal Shobhit, Nasagre Moti, Maiya Nasagre Moti…
Kotik Chandra Diwakar, Kotik Surya Diwakar, Samrajat Jyoti… Jai!!

Shumbhu Nishumbha Vidare, Mahishasur Ghati, Maiya Mahishasur Ghati…
Dhoomra Vilochana Naina, Madhura Vilochana Naina, Nishidin Madmati… Jai!!

Brahmani Rudraini, Tum Kamala Rani, Maiya Tum Kamala Rani…
Aagam Nigam Bhakhani, Aagam Nigam Bhakhani, Tum Shiv Patrani… Jai!!

Chaunsath Yogini Gavet, Nritya Karen Bhairon, Maiya Nritya Karen Bhairon…
Bajat Tal Mridanga, Bajat Dhol Mridanga, Aur Bajat Dumroo… Jai!!

Bhuja Char Ati Shobhit, Var Mudra Dhari, Maiya Var Mudra Dhari…
Manwanchhit Phal Pavat, Man Iccha Phal Pavat, Sewat Nar Nari… Jai!!

Kanchan Thal Virajat, Agar Kapoor Bati, Maiya Agar Kapoor Bati…
Malketu Mein Rajat, Malketu Men Rajat, Koti Ratan Jyoti… Jai!!

Durgaji Ki Aarti, Jo Koi Nar Gave, Maiya Jo Sunder Gave…
Kahat Shivananda Swami, Ratata Shivananda Swami, Sukh Sampati Pave!!

Jai Ambe Gauri, Mayya Jai Shyama Gauri...
Tumko Nishidin Dhyavat, Tumko Sabdin Sevat, Hari Brahma Shivji!!

Bolo Durge Maiyya ki Jai!!!

Rituals: 

Navratri is divided into sets of three days to adore three different aspects of the supreme goddess or goddesses. During Navratri, different forms of Mother Goddess are worshipped. On the first three days Durga or Goddess of Energy is worshipped.

The next three days are devoted to Lakshmi or Goddess of Wealth and the last three days for Saraswati or Goddess of Knowledge. On the fifth day, it is traditional to worship Saraswati to invoke our spirit and knowledge.

On the eighth and ninth day, Yagna (sacrifice offered to the fire) is performed to honor Durga Mata and bid her farewell. The 10th day, on which the goddess kills Mahishasura, is celebrated as Dusshera or Vijayadashami as the victory of good over evil to commemorate the victory of Lord Ram over Ravana. On Dusshera, an effigy of Ravana is burnt to celebrate the victory of Lord Ram.

Fast is observed by devotees during all the nine days of Navratri. Prayers are also offered for good health and prosperity. Navratri, besides being a period of introspection and purification, is also considered an auspicious time for starting new ventures.

During this period, a pot is installed (ghatasthapana) in a sanctified place at home and a lamp is kept lit in the pot for nine days. The pot symbolizes the universe and the uninterrupted lit lamp is considered as a medium for worshipping the effulgent Adishakti, i.e. Sree Durgadevi.

Nine days of Navratri:

First Day

The first day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is called Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas. She is a form of Shakti, the companion of Lord Shiva.

Second Day

The second day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is known as 'Brahmacharini'. The name is derivative of the word 'Brahma', which means 'Tapa' or penace. She is also a form of Mata Shakti.

Third Day

The third day is dedicated to the goddess Chandraghanta, the symbolic representation of beauty and bravery.

Fourth Day

The fourth day is dedicated to the goddess Kushmandas, the creator of the entire Universe.

Fifth Day


The fifth day is dedicated to the Goddess Skand Mata, the mother of the chief warrior of the Gods army the Skanda.

Sixth Day

The sixth day is dedicated to the goddess Katyayani with three eyes and four hands.

Seventh Day

The seventh day is dedicated to the Goddess 'Kalratri', meant to make the devotees fearless.

Eighth Day

The eight day is dedicated to the Mata Rani or 'Maha Gauri', represents calmness and exhibits wisdom.

Ninth Day

The ninth day is dedicated to Durga also referred as Siddhidatri. It is believed that she has all the eight siddhis and is worshipped by all the Rishis and Yogis.

Recipies:

India is the land of festivals and festivals bring time to enjoy with family and friends, Delicious and mouth watering food adds another star to the level of enjoyment. Navratri is a festival, which is celebrated for nine days. Therefore, ample varieties of dishes are prepared during this festival. There is a practice of observing fast during navratri in many regions of India and even pure satvik food is taken that is vegetarian and without onion and garlic. Following are few recipes for dishes, which can be prepared during nine days festival.

Sabudana (Sago) Puri:

Ingredients:

   1. 1/4 kg Sabudana (Sago)
   2. 4-5 boiled potatoes
   3. 2 green chilies
   4. 1/4 tsp Red chilly powder
   5. Salt to taste
   6. Oil to fry

sabudana puri.jpgProcedure:

   1. Soak the sabudana in about 1/2 glass of water for an hour.
   2. Boil 4-5 potatoes, peel it and mash it.
   3. Now mix soaked sabudana, mashed potatoes, green chilies, salt, red chilly powder and mix this mixture well.
   4. Then oil your palms by few drops of oil and make small round balls of this mixture and keep it aside.
   5. Heat about ¼ liters of oil in kadai and fry small balls to light brown and place fried balls on a tissue paper to soak extra oil.
   6. Serve hot with curd or tomato chutney.

Gujrati Kadhi:

Ingredients:

   1. 2 cups yoghurt/ dahi/ curd
   2. 2 tbsp singhare ka atta
   3. 4 cups water
   4. 1 tbsp rock salt
   5. 1 tsp chilli powder
   6. 1/4 tsp cinnamon-powdered
   7. 2-3 tbsp sugar
   8. 2 tbsp oil/ ghee
   9. 2 tsp cumin seeds
  10. 1 sprig curry leaf
  11. 3-4 whole red chillies
  12. 2 tbsp coriander leaves-chopped

Procedure:

images guj kadhi 2.jpg   1. Beat the curd and the atta together to make smooth batter.
   2. Add salt, chilli powder, cinnamon, sugar, water and mix well.
   3. Heat ghee/ oil in kadai and add cumin, curry leaves and red chillies.
   4. Add the yoghurt mixture, when the cumin begins to splutter.
   5. Increase the flame and bring to boil
   6. Cook on sim for about 15-20 minutes.
   7. Garnished with coriander leaves and serve hot with puris or rice. 
  
Vrat ke Chawal

Ingredients:

   1. 2 cloves
   2. 3 cup water
   3. 2 cardamoms
   4. 30 gm ghee
   5. 2 tsp kala namak
   6. 1 tsp cumin seeds
   7. 1/2 tsp chilli powder
   8. 125 gms samwat ke chaawal
   9. coriander leaves for garnishing
  10. 1 big size potato, diced
  11. cinnamon stick, tiny piece

Procedure:

   1. Heat ghee in kadai and mix cumin seeds, cloves, cardamoms and cinnamon in it.
   2. When color changes to light brown, mix in potato and rice.
   3. Stir till appear a bit fried.
   4. Mix all spices and add water to boil.
   5. Cook covered on lower flame for about 15 minutes and let the water get absorbed.
   6. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.
  
Aval Kesari:

Ingredients:

   1. Rice Flakes (poha) - 1/2 cup.
   2. Sugar - 1/2 cup.
   3. Ghee - 2 teaspoon.
   4. Cashews - 5
   5. Cardomom - 1/4 teaspoon.
   6. Safforn colour

Procedure:


   1. Melt some ghee in a kadai.
   2. Roast the cashews in the ghee and put aside.
   3. Roast the rice flakes to golden brown in remaining ghee.
   4. Put safforn into some water and bring to a boil. Add the flakes and cook for few minutes. Add sugar and cardomom to it.
   5. Keep stirring untill the mixture becomes non-sticky. If required, add some more ghee followed by roasted cashwes and Serve hot.

Singhare ka Halwa:

Ingredients:

   1. 1 cup singhare ka atta
   2. 1 cup sugar
   3. 4 1/2 cups water
   4. 6 tbsp ghee
   5. 1/2 tsp green cardamoms-powdered
   6. 1 tbsp almonds-blanched, shredded

Procedure:

   1. Put ghee in kadai and melt it then add atta
   2. Adjust flame to medium, stir properly to prevent scorching.
   3. Mix water and sugar in another pan and let the suger dissolve completely in water by boiling. Simmer the flame.
   4. When atta is properly fried, add the sugar solution and cardamom powder and bring to a boil and again simmer the flame till the liquid is absorbed
   5. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and lumping.
   6. Turn the flame off, when a thin line of melted ghee is formed around the edges
   7. Garnish with almonds and serve hot.

Mahanavmi:

Mahanavmi is the final day of Navratri celebrations. This day comes with mix feelings. On one side the passion reaches to its highest on this day while on the other side, devotees get emotional as this day marks the end of navratri celebrations. Celebrations of Mahanavmi, varies from state to state in India.

On the ninth day of the Navratri, goddess is worshipped as Durga and offered sugarcane stalks. Kanya puja is also practiced on this day in different parts of India like Punjab, Harayana, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. In Kanya puja, nine young girls (who have not attained puberty) are invited in houses and are feasted with puri, chana ki sabzi, kheer, halwa etc. These girls are treated as nine forms of the goddess and are honored by washing their feet and putting tilak on their forehead. Devotees also present them certain gifts like clothes, fruits etc.

In Kerala, Saraswati puja is practiced on asthmi, a day before mahanavmi. The mahanavmi day is treated as resting day. People don’t begin new activities on this day and children don’t even study on this day.

The celebrations of navratri end on asthmi instead of navmi in some parts of Kashmir, Harayana, Uttar Pradesh and Maharastra. Asthmi, the eight day of navratri is also considered as the birthday of Parvati, the form of Durga.

Navratri Kolu/ Golu:

In the Southern states of India Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and some communities of Kerala, special tradition of navratri Kolu is practiced during nine days of navrarti. Also referred as navratri golu, basically is the tradition of displaying dolls/ kolus/ golus in odd numbered (7, 9) tiers. Women and unmarried girls at home decorate the dolls and set these dolls on planks in corner of the house.

Even some people invite special artists for exhibiting dolls in eye-catching manner while at some places, the communal kolu is organized at the grand level in the centre of society or apartments. In such communal affairs, huge collection of dolls is made by collecting dolls
from different houses in that particular area. These dolls are passed on from generations to generations and even new dolls are also added on each navratri.
Customs:

There is a custom to visit relatives and friend’s houses in order to see their kolu during navratris. Host family give them Prasad (offering presented before god) and kumkum. Married and unmarried women also exchange gifts like coconut, clothes and sweets. In the evenings, whole family sit together before Goddess and lit a "kuthuvilakku" (small lamp) in centre of Rangoli and chant devotional hymns and shlokas. After that food items prepared on that particular day are presented before Goddess and distributed as prasad.

Belief:

Devotees strongly believe that dolls or kolu represents the represents the assembly of Goddess Durga. As per belief the idea of arranging these dolls on different tiers symbolizes that Goddess Mahishasuramardini is sitting in her Kolu, prior to the assassination of the demon Mahishasura.
 
Best Wishes:

Navratri, the nine days festival is full of religious practices and merry making. Following are few messages to wish your near and dear ones:

Maa Durge,
Maa Ambe,
Maa Jagdambe,
Maa Bhawani,
Maa Sheetla,
Maa Vaishnao,
Maa Chandi,
Mata Rani meri aur apki manokamna puri karey..
JAI MATA DI.

ambaji.jpgLakshmi ka Hath ho,Saraswati ka Sath ho,Ganesh ka niwas ho, aur maa durga ke
ashirwad se Aapke jeevan mai prakash hi prakash ho….
‘HAPPY NAVRATRI’

“Maa ki jyoti se prem milta hai, sabke dilo ko marm milta hai, jo bhi jata hai MAA ke dwar , kuch na kuch jarur milta hai. ”
SHUBH NAVRATRI.

This Navratri, may you be blessed with good fortune as long as Ganeshji’s trunk, wealth and prosperity as big as his stomach, happiness as sweet as his ladoos and may your trouble be as small as his mouse.
Happy Navratri.

Maa Durga Se Vinti Hai Ki Apke Jeevan Main Sukh, Samradhe, Dhan, Yas, Pardhan Kare.
Happy Navratra!

Khushian ho overflow, masti kabhi na ho low, apnonka surur chaya rahe, Dil
me bhari maya rahe, shohrat ki ho bauchhar, aisa aaye aapke liye “dandia ka tyohar”

May Maa Durga empower u & ur family with her Nine Swaroopa of Name, Fame,
Health, Wealth, Happiness, Humanity, Education, Bhakti and Shakti. HAPPY NAVRATRAS!

May this festival be the harbinger of joy and prosperity. As the holy occasion of Navratri is here and the atmosphere is filled with the spirit of mirth and love, here’s hoping this festival will be great for you!HAPPY NAVRATRAS!

May your life be filled with happiness on this pious festival of Navratri,Happy Navratri!

Fortunate is the one who has learned to Admire, but not to envy. Good Wishes for a joyous Navratri and a Happy New Year with a plenty of Peace and Prosperity.SHUBH NAVRATRI.

Navratri 2010:

Navratri, the festival of nine divine nights is full of festivity and merry making. The festival of Navratri is the perfect blend of fun, dance and worship of Goddess Durga.

Navratri is celebrated twice in a year, once in the month of March or April and other in the month of September or October. The second Navratri is dedicated to worship of goddess Durga and is the most awaited festival for all age groups.

According to Hindu calendar, Navratri is observed on the first day of the Shukla Paksha (Waxing Phase of moon) in the Hindu month of Ashwin (September- October). In 2010, the date of Navratri staphna is October 8 and the date of Mahanavmi is October 16. The 9 day long, Navratri Festival will be celebrated from October 8 to October 16 in the year 2010.