Hindu Holiday: Navaratri

While touring around South Goa I met a lovely young man named Suraj.  Suraj was on vacation with his family (his grandparents, parents, aunt, uncle and cousins – altogether there were nine family members travelling).  “Vacation?” I asked, “shouldn’t you be in school?”  And that is when Suraj taught me about Navaratri.  

Families gathered on the beach during the nine days of Navaratri.


Being Hindu, Suraj and his family celebrate Navaratri , which in English means nine nights.  For nine nights his family will worship the goddess Durga (who represents the warrior in the Divine Mother).  This festival follows the lunar calendar and lands between the seasons of summer and autumn.  It is a time for reflecting on the year that passed, and a time to start planning for the year ahead.  People ask the goddess for health and good fortune during Navaratri, and they will go to a temple during the nine days to make an offering.

A family posing for a picture while on holiday at Dona Paula.

The best part of Navaratri is that many Hindus get all nine days off school, so it is a perfect time to go on vacation with your family.  Many Indian families come to Goa to enjoy the beautiful beaches and temples.  You can see them gathered together on the beach at sunset splashing in the water, or sitting on the sand sharing a picnic – it reminds me of the festivals I celebrate with my own family.  Does it sound like any of the festivals or special days you celebrate?

Mr. P Visits a Hindu Temple

Shantadurga Temple in Ponda Taluka.

Today I visited my very first Hindu temple.  What makes this visit extra special is that the temple I went to, Shantadurga Temple, is found in the country of India.  The temple is dedicated to the Goddess of Peace, and Hindus come from all around India to make offerings (usually of fruit, flowers or incense) to the goddess in hopes that she will answer their prayers.  There are no pictures allowed inside the temple, because it is such a sacred place, so I can't show you what the inside looks like.  Also, you must take off your shoes and socks before entering the temple as a sign of respect to the goddess.  I also had to take my shoes off when entering the Blue Mosque, but I have never had to take my shoes off when visiting any churches.  Visiting a Hindu temple is something you should all do to learn more about your Hindu friends.  The sights, sounds and smells will amaze you, and you will learn a lot too.


Offerings for the Goddess of Peace for sale here!