When Did Navratri Celebrations Start And Who Was The First To Adhere To A 9-Day Fast?

Navratri is regarded as one of the most fortunate Hindu holidays. The nine incarnations of Goddess Durga are honoured throughout these nine days, which honour the strength of Shakti. Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri are the two occasions when Navratri is observed. For millennia, people have observed Navratri by worshipping Goddess Durga. But who was the first to maintain a nine-day fast during Navratri, you ask?

Goddess Durga is a kind of Shakti, according to Dr. Gaurav Kumar Dixit, the astrologer and president of the Shukar Kshetra Foundation. Worshipping her brings wealth, happiness, and spiritual vigour to her devotees.

Now, according to mythology, Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Durga on Mount Rishyamuk near Kishkindha before assaulting Lanka. Lord Brahma was the one who suggested that Lord Rama worship Goddess Chandadevi, who was a manifestation of Goddess Durga. Next, from Pratipada Tithi to Navami Tithi, he performed the Chandadevi mantra. After Chandi Puja and Havan, Lord Brahma requested that Lord Rama present 108 blue lotuses in addition to singing the Goddess Chandi’s mantra.

These blue lotuses are quite uncommon. With the aid of his army, Lord Rama is said to have acquired 108 blue lotuses. But after learning of this, Ravana used his abilities to smash one of the lotuses. When Lord Rama gave the blue lotuses at the conclusion of the Chandi Puja, he discovered that one was missing. He made the choice to present Goddess Chandi with one of his eyes. The moment he lifted the arrow to give his eyes, Goddess Chandi, moved by his devotion, materialised in front of him and bestowed upon him the victory.

In order to appease Goddess Chandi, Lord Rama abstained from eating and drinking until Navami Tithi, or the ninth day. After paying homage to the deity, he ultimately vanquished Ravana. It is said that Navratri celebrations began then, and that Lord Rama was the first individual to keep the nine-day fast for Navratri as well as the King.

Chaitra Navratri will take place this year from April 9 to April 17. During this auspicious season, devotees fast in order to ask Mother Goddess for her blessings.