Navaratri, also known as Durga Puja, Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra in different parts of India, is a Hindu festival celebrated to honor the Goddess Durga, also referred to as Devi, or Dharma, a representation of femininity and the triumph of good over evil. It is also celebrated to mark the anniversary of Lord Rama’s victory against the powerful King Ravana, a story depicted in the epic tale, Ramayana.
Navaratri lasts approximately 8 to 10 days and typically dies down around the end of September and beginning of October. It is celebrated by Hindu communities all over the world - in the UK, Trinidad, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Germany, and the Netherlands. The occasion is marked with lights strung up around every corner, the bursting of a variety of firecrackers, the lighting of candles, bright clothing, dances, displays of idols and, of course, endless supplies of food and traditional snacks and sweets.
These 15 photos will give you a taste of the festivities that Durga Puja has to offer.
1. The lighting of Candles during Sandhi Puja on the day of Ashtami in Kolkata, the 8th Day of celebration
(By Sumita Roy Dutta, Wikimedia Commons)
2. Folk Dance Performances outside the Ambaji Temple of Gujarat, in celebration of Navaratri
(By anurag agnihotri, Wikimedia Commons)
3. Two Pandals (fabricated structures for displaying idols and sculptures) set up in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) for Durga Puja
(By Ramakrishna Reddy Y, Wikimedia Commons)
(By Saikat Sengupta, Wikimedia Commons)
4. Immersion of the sculpture-idol of Durga on the day of Vijaya Dashami.
(By Biswarup Ganguly, Wikimedia Commons)
(By Biswarup Ganguly, Wikimedia Commons)
(By Ministry of Culture (GODL-India), Wikimedia Commons)
5. Garba Dancing, a Navaratri Tradition in Gujarat and neighboring states
(By nevil zaveri, Wikimedia Commons)
6. Kudroli Hindu Temple in Karnataka, decorated with lights in honor of Navaratri
(By Karunakar Rayker, Wikimedia Commons)
7. A lit lamp set atop a Bathukamma flower arrangement, a Telegu Navaratri Tradition
(By Randhirreddy, Wikimedia Commons)
8. Dhaks, an instrument played in processions and street performances during Durga Puja
(By Mallikamandal25, Wikimedia Commons)
9. Dhunachi naach (Dhunuchi Dance) performed on Navami (the 9th day of Durga Puja), using the Dhunachi, a Bengali incense burner
(By Amarnath, Wikimedia Commons)
(By ampersandyslexia, Wikimedia Commons)
10. The burning of Ravana Effigies during Dussehra
(By Shakti, Wikimedia Commons)
11. Dussehra Procession held in Mysore, Karnataka, as both a yearly tradition and now a major tourist attraction
(By Kalyan Kumar, Wikimedia Commons)
12. Kolam or Rangoli (a form of drawing that makes use of colored rice flour, chalk or rock powder) patterns drawn on the floor to mark Navaratri
(By Ramesh NG, Wikimedia Commons)
13. Women playing sindoor khela (the “vermilion game”), on Vijaya Dashami, which involves the smearing of sindur, a vermilion red cosmetic powder traditionally worn by married women.
(By Arindam Mitra, Wikimedia Commons)
14. Lights designed and installed on numerous streets during the time of the Festival
(By Kumar83, Wikimedia Commons)
15. A typical Navaratri feast, consisting of some rice or Indian bread, fried items (pakoda), assorted vegetables, curry, and gravy, with some cool refreshing buttermilk to drink with it.
(By Vivek3dartist, Wikimedia Commons)
These Might Be Some of the Most Beautiful Temples on Earth
Hindu Temples aren't just places of worship for Hindus, they are beacons of spirituality and history, open to people all around the world
Aerial View of World's Largest Airplane Graveyard
Aerial photos show patterns we wouldn't notice otherwise!
On Christmas, Fife County Turns Kids' Drawings Into Lights
In a small town in Scotland, people decided to celebrate Christmas by creating unique holiday lights based on children's drawings.
Magic Can be Found Through the Magnifying Camera Lens
It's an eye-straining hunt for the next model - slime fungus macrophotography.
The Circular Nature of Olafur Eliasson's Architectural Art
Circular and spherical shapes repeat themselves in Eliasson‘s works, meant to reflect a sense of unity, oneness, and awareness of one’s surroundings.
8 Cities Outside New Orleans That Celebrate Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is the traditional feast enjoyed before the Lenten fast. Here are 8 more cities that celebrate it.
Remembering the World’s Long Lost Architectural Gems
There have been countless architectural gems built over centuries. Sadly, many no longer exist. Here’s a look at some of them.
Visit Prague, One of the Most Stunning Capitals in Europe
Why not take a stroll through this incredible, historical old town? You won't regret this!
Life in Turkey’s Istanbul is Pretty Special – 15 Pictures
Istanbul in Turkey is a city of many wonderful contrasts as you will see in these striking pictures.
15 Common Geography Facts That Are Actually Wrong!
Here are 15 common errors about the world that often leave geography teachers in tears...
The Most Exclusive and Extraordinary Hotels in the World
Behold a collection of the most unparalleled and exceptional hotels on Earth, like an underwater hotel, or a hotel made completely out of ice
Discovering 10 of the Oldest Nations in the World!
Bet you didn’t know these countries were so old!
Pearl of Southeast Asia: 5 Reasons You Need to Visit Burma
A comprehensive travel guide to Myanmar in Southeast Asia
Eastern Europe's Jaw-Dropping Beauty Needs to Be Seen
Eastern Europe is often associated with poverty and the remnants of Communism, but it's actually quite exotic and beautiful. View these 20 amazing places.
The Architectural Wonders of Europe Never Looked Better...
Watch as some of the most stunning structures of Europe come alive in beautiful detail.
These Step Pyramids are the Most Impressive in the World
Curiously, step pyramids were important to many ancient cultures that constructed them for a variety of reasons. Take a look at some of most impressive ones.
The World’s Oldest Hotel Has Many Stories to Tell
Join us on a unique tour of the Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan - the world's oldest hotel.
16 Stunning Award-Winning Images from Around the World
Check out the amazing winning images from the iPhone Photography Awards 2023.
Las Vegas Isn't Just About Gambling as These Places Prove
Planning a visit to Las Vegas? If so, you must really visit these stunning places.
Harmony, Discipline, Power! What a Drumming Performance!
Watch this mesmerizing drumming performance by a Japanese drumming troupe.
Go On An Unforgettable Trip In the Southern Netherlands!
The Netherlands is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, get to know the country by taking an 8 day trip in the southern part of it with out guide.
Wow! What a Fascinating Train Ride Through the Swiss Alps
Take a magical train ride through the winter wonderland that are the Swiss Alps with this video
This Man Ran a Marathon Every Single Day of the Year!
Meet Gary McKee, the man who ran 365 marathons in a year!
Here Are the Most Important Archaeological Finds of 2023
2023 was an interesting year for archaeology.
INTERACTIVE: Visit 11 Stunning Locations in MALTA!
The map you see before you has 11 marked locations. Click on any of these locations and you'll see their name and a beautiful video of each place
See the Seven Wonders of the World in Stunning 4K
Very few things on this planet come close to the beauty and majesty of the Seven Wonders of the World, as this 4K video proves.
This Fantastic Tour of New York City Will Leave You in Awe
Ever wanted to visit New York City, but haven’t had the chance yet? This great video will whet your appetite until you get a chance to visit yourself!
First-Class Travel Looks Very Different on These Airlines
First-class air travel is one of the most luxurious modes of transport you can take, but the experience differs from airline to airline. Take a closer look.
10 Practices of Happiness from Around the World
Learn the secrets of happiness from these countries.
10 Caves in the US You Have To Add to Your Must Visit List
These magical caves are a must see - weather you're an extreme lover or just looking for a relaxed stroll, these natural wonders have something for anyone.
Take in China's Spectacular Oriental Beauty - from Above
Get ready to fly high over China's most amazing landscapes.
These 10 Super Island Cities Float Like Brilliant Boats
Some of the greatest cities in the world are actually like magnificent boats. They are islands of civilization and wonder floating in the world's seas.
13 Free Attractions to Enjoy in the City of London
Remember that exploring London doesn't have to be an expensive venture - with careful planning and inclusion of free attractions in your itinerary...
Discover Cool Facts about the World with These Fun Maps
These interesting ad unusual maps will make you see the world in a totally new perspective.
18 of the Coolest Little Towns in the Good Ol' US of A
The US is more than Chicago, LA, and New York. For a true taste of Americana, visit these 18 cool towns.
Did You Know the Dark Stories of These Popular Landmarks?
While these 8 tourist spots are extremely popular, they have lesser known eerie histories and haunting stories.
Titanic Sub: What Really Caused a 'Catastrophic' Implosion
The Titan sub tragedy has left everyone shaken. But what exactly happened to it?
These Rooftop Bars Around the World Have Views to Die For
Rooftop bars are great spots for some rest and relaxation, but the 20 you're about to see offer some of the best views (and drinks) in the world.
The Australian Island of Tasmania Is Out of This World...
Many choose to visit to Australia at least once in their lifetimes, but the island of Tasmania is much less well-known. Take a look at these stunning pictures.
Go on an Interactive Tour of Windsor Castle!
This video is no regular video, but an interactive tour of one of the most famous castles in the world - The Windsor Castle
These Are the World's Most Stunning & Famous Opera Houses
Opera houses are iconic symbols of a city's cultural & financial status. They represent the pinnacle of high society and architectural achievement. Take a look.
Food Photographer of the Year: 16 Mouth-Watering Pics
Check out the yummiest pictures from the Food Photographer of the Year contest.
Visit the Most Remote Inhabited Islands on Earth!
These islands are hundreds, if not thousands of miles, from civilization. Take a look at 9 of the world's most remote inhabited islands.
Traditional Japan's Best-Kept Secrets: 13 Cozy Villages
Join us on a beautiful journey of Japan’s most charming villages and towns.
Take a Virtual Walking Tour Through the Streets of Venice
Venice is a truly beautiful city. Walk through its streets in this breathtaking video.
You Better Move Your Shop, the Train is Coming.
This is pretty unbelievable, yet has become routine to these folks..