The Power of Navratri: Honoring Goddess Durga and Manifesting Desires

Navratri, meaning "nine nights," is one of India’s most revered festivals, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and celebrating the power of the divine feminine. Observed twice a year, during spring and autumn, it honors the nine forms of Goddess Durga. These sacred days are filled with rituals, fasting, prayers, music, and dance, offering devotees the chance to reconnect with spirituality and seek blessings for health, prosperity, and wisdom.
The festival has deep mythological significance.One of the most well-known stories is the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Granted near immortality, Mahishasura could not be defeated by any man or god. However, his boon did not protect him from the power of a woman. To end his reign of terror, the gods combined their energies to create Durga, a fierce warrior goddess. For nine days, Durga fought Mahishasura and finally vanquished him on the tenth day, celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. This victory symbolizes the destruction of evil and the restoration of righteousness.
Each day of Navratri is dedicated to one of Durga’s nine avatars, each representing a different aspect of feminine energy or Shakti. These forms include Shailaputri, symbolizing strength; Brahmacharini, the goddess of penance; Chandraghanta, embodying courage; Kushmanda, the creator of the universe; Skandamata, representing motherhood; Katyayani, the fierce warrior; Kalaratri, who dispels darkness; Mahagauri, symbolizing peace; and Siddhidatri, the bestower of knowledge. Each form is honored with prayers, offerings, and rituals, allowing devotees to experience the divine feminine’s many facets.
What makes Navratri particularly significant is that it celebrates and worships the divine feminine, which is intricately linked with creation. If you want to create anything in this world—whether it is a child, a home, a business, or good health—it manifests through divine feminine energy. One powerful remedy to harness this energy during Navratri involves the use of cloves. Clove, a potent herb, is believed to capture energy. The remedy is simple yet profound: take four cloves, holding two in each hand, and focus on a desire deep within your heart—whether it’s for a bigger house, better health, love, or children. During Goddess Durga’s aarti in the evening, place these four cloves at her feet. With faith and patience, trust that Goddess Durga will fulfill your desires in divine timing.
Another essential aspect of Navratri is fasting, which many devotees observe. Abstaining from grains, meat, and alcohol is seen as a way to purify both body and mind, preparing oneself to receive divine blessings. Fasting is also believed to deepen one’s spiritual connection, fostering self-discipline and mindfulness.
While Navratri is celebrated with great color and enthusiasm, its true significance transcends the cultural festivities. It is a reminder of the omnipresent divine feminine in all of creation. As devotees worship Durga, they strive to conquer their own inner demons—anger, greed, pride, and jealousy—just as Durga overcame Mahishasura. The festival encourages qualities like compassion, courage, and wisdom, guiding individuals toward spiritual growth.
Ultimately, Navratri is not just a religious celebration, but a spiritual journey—a reflection of the eternal battle between good and evil that exists in every heart, and a celebration of the divine within.
Written By: Seerat Kaur Marwaha, Spiritual Coach and Founder of Soulful Wellness