Navratras are observed twice a year, one in the month of Chaitra preceding Ramnavami, and then in Ashvin (September-October) preceding Dassera. This nine day Navratra commences with the moon of Ashvin and terminates with Mahanavami, on the ninth lunar day of the bright half of the month. During these nine days, devotees keep strict fast and worship Durga. The style of observing Navrata in different parts of the country may be different, but its sole aim is to propitiate Mother Durga and to seek her blessings.

On Pratipada (first lunar day of bright half of Ashvin) an earthen vessel filled with water, its mouth covered with green leaves and an earthen lid, is installed with invocation of Ganesh, the god of learning and wisdom. Then Durga is invoked and ritually worshipped with durva grass, flowers, leaves, leaves, lamps, incense, new grains, raiments, etc. Barley seeds are also sprouted and grown in a pot on this occasion, and the same is worn on caps and on ears on the final day. Unmarried girls below the age of ten are also worshipped and given gifts and food on the final day before breaking the fast. A clarified butter (ghee) lamp is always kept burning before the installed vessel during the celebration, and daily Durga-saptashti, Devi Bhagvat Puran and Devi Mahatmaya section of the Markandeya Puran are read and recited.

LEGEND: Durga, the beautiful , but fierce goddess rides her mount of the lion, killing the demon Mahishasura. In each of her ten hands she holds one of the god's special weapons:

• Vishnu's discus
• Shiva's trident
• Varuna's conch shell
• Agni's flaming dart
• Vayu's bow
• Surya's quiver
• Indra's thunderbolt
• Kubera's club
• A garland of snakes from Shesh
• And a lion.

A fierce battle raged between Durga and Mahishasura, but finally she killed him with a spear.

It is believed that Durga visit her parents Himavan and Maina only during these days in a year. The final day marks the end of this brief visit when she leaves for Mount Kailash, the abode of her lord and husband Shiva.

The earthen images of goddess Durga are taken on the final day in triumphal procession from all the houses to the river where they are ceremonially immersed. Ladies give an emotion charged and affectionate send off to Durga, and the ceremony is characterized with a daughter's departure to her husband's house.

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