-by Kimberly Giddings
Today marks the beginning of Navraatri – a period of fasting and prayer in the Hindu community.
Navratri represents the worship of the feminine aspect of God and highlights the progression of human consciousness.
During Navraatri, Hindus would fast and worship the goddesses Durga, Latchmi and Saraswati.
Prayers are done in the homes, and in mandirs across communities.
Pandit Rabindranath Persaud shared with NCN news the essence of Navratri.
“The purpose of celebrating Navratri, is how is it that we can move from the mode of ignorance, transcending ignorance, passion, and reach to the peak of what you may call higher intelligence or purity,” he explained.
Pandit Persaud also emphasized that peace everywhere is the greatest blessing being sought during the observance of Navratri.
“So I’m encouraging all devotees make sure wherever they are make every effort to attend your Mandir and contribute to the peace of communities,” he added.
Navratri is celebrated twice annually. This first period will conclude on April 26 with Ram-now-mi.