INSIGHT UK is proud to be one of the organizers of this special day, which aims to promote unity within the Hindu community and assert Hindu pride. By wearing a Bindi or Tilak, we celebrate our rich cultural heritage and make our Hindu identity an accepted and proud norm across the globe.
International Bindi and Tilak Day – 15th October Read More »
On day 9, Mā Durgā is worshipped in her most divine form Mā Siddhidātri. Siddhidātri is made up of – Siddhi, which means ‘perfection’ and Datri means ‘on who provides or bestows. Siddhidātri, one who grants perfection in every activity that Her devotees undertake.
Śarad Navrātri: Day 9 – Mā Siddhidātri Read More »
On day 8, the Mahā Aṣtami, Devi Mahāgauri is invoked with great devotion. Devi Mahāgauri, the eighth form of Nava Durgā radiates purity, peace, and tranquillity. Her name itself signifies her luminous milky white complexion as Mahā means ‘great; Gauri refers to fair or bright. She is adorned in pristine white garments, symbolising her transcendence over darkness and impurities.
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On day 7, Mā Durgā takes the 7th form as Mā Kālarātri, one of the fiercest forms of Durgā and her appearance evokes fear. ‘Kāla’ means ‘death & time’, and ‘Rātri’ means ‘night’. This form is believed to be the destroyer of all demonic qualities and negative energies, who flee upon knowing of her arrival. She killed the demons Śumbha & Niśumbha.
Śarad Navrātri: Day 7 – Mā Kālarātri Read More »
On day 6, Devi Kātyāyanī one of the avatars of Mā Śakti is worshipped. As per Śrimad Bhāgvata Pūrāṇa, young eligible ladies in Gokula observed fast during the month of Mārghaśīrṣa and offered prayers to Goddess Kātyāyanī to get Bhagwān Kṛṣṇa as their consort.
Śarad Navrātri: Day 6 – Mā Kātyāyanī Read More »
Garbā is a powerful expression in the form of dance that honours, worships and celebrates the feminine form of divinity. Through this dance, devotees convey their devotion, love and gratitude to the devi/maa (Mother), who symbolises strength and protection. It is a celebration of the divine feminine, urging us to confront and destroy the evil that resides both within and around us.
Garbā: The divine dance that celebrates the miracle of life Read More »
On day 5, Devi Pārvati is worshipped in her motherhood stage as ‘Skandmāta’. Devi Pārvati is the mother of Kārtikeya (Bhagwān Skanda) and thus revered as Skanda Mātā.
Śarad Navrātri: Day 5 – Mā Skandmātā Read More »
On day 4, Mā Durgā is worshipped as Mā Kuśmandā. Kuśmandā, a sanskrit word is made up of ‘Ku’ meaning a little; ‘uśma’ meaning ‘warmth’, and ‘anḍa’ meaning ‘cosmic egg’. As per purāṇa, she is considered the creator of the Universe.
Śarad Navrātri: Day 4 – Mā Kuśmandā Read More »
On day 3, Mā Durgā’s manifestation as Chandraghantā is worshipped. Chandraghantā means “one who has a half-moon shaped like a bell”. Her third eye is always open, signifying her perpetual readiness for battle against evil. She is believed to reward people with her grace, bravery, and courage. She establishes justice and discipline.
Śarad Navrātri: Day 3 – Mā Chandraghantā Read More »
On day 2, Hindus honour Mā Durgā’s manifestation as Brahmacāriṇī. ‘Brahma’ means penance and ‘Cāriṇī’ means an ardent female devotee.
Śarad Navrātri: Day 2 – Mā Brahmacāriṇī Read More »