NAVRATRI (DASARA) & VIJAYA DASAMI FESTIVAL CELEBRATIONS

NAVRATRI  (DASARA) & VIJAYA DASAMI FESTIVAL CELEBRATIONS

By

TRS IYENGAR

Srivaishnavites in general observe the Navaratri, well known Dasserah  (Dasara) festival, as an opportune time to mingle with one another, exchange views, cultural, literal and what not! In all these nine days, they women visit each others home, finely decorated with choicest handicrafts, toys and arrange it in a neat way, which attracts attention. This is the modest way for them to prove their imagination, skill and theme vision. Also, they take pride in proving their talent, viz.; preparations for the function, recitals, Music - instrumental & vocal; they used to dress in choicest costumes and attire, that give them a chance to prove the world of their beauty. This social gathering, celebrated mainly by women and girl children is meant to prove their merits; A lots of marriage proposals made during these time around, just simply by visiting one another's home, they get to know each other, socialize in a free way and exchange views. The significance of this Navaratri festival just cannot be ignored as a routine ritual, but it has a lot more inner meaning and refreshing Lifestyle matters that are embedded in the celebration in itself!

 

In the olden days, they used to exhibit all sorts of toys, made of clay and wooden, arrange them in a way that looks like a model village or town. This way, a housewife's imagination and talent is illustrated. This exhibition is known as Kolu in Tamil and Koluvu in Telugu. Mostly, in all parts of the South India, (held for full Nine nights - known as "Navaratri") these Kolu type exhibitions take place. There is a lot more to it rather than just seeing these exhibits. In real terms, it provides a relaxing mood for women and children, an opportunity to freely go to others home to take part in the Kolu, Sing their favorite songs thus proving their ability. Also, this type of get-together provides ample scope to understand each other's talent and might even lead to sort of marriage alliance. In psychological terms, it is purely a refreshing time for women and children in general and girls of marriageable age in particular.

 

Though, this Navaratri Festival is celebrated all over India, different part of it makes a different way of celebration - but the Name and Aim are the same! Here is an interesting reading from Dr. Satyavati Kandala, a well-known Sanskrit professor from the Vedanta Society and at the International Society of Divine Love in Los Angeles, California.