Navaratri celebrations that were restricted within families last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic are underway with grand fervour.
Coimbatore: Navaratri celebrations this year had dolls made of Navadhanya (nine grains) and face masks showcased, in sync with the Covid pandemic that the country is fighting.
Navaratri, a nine-day festival celebrates the defeat of Mahishasura by goddess Durga, signifying the victory of good over evil. In some parts of India, people observe a fast during Navaratri and on the last day, they perform puja and break their fast. The goddesses Lakshmi, Durga and Saraswati are celebrated on three days each and people observe an age-long tradition of placing a variety of dolls in their houses, and perform special pujas on all nine days. The nine-day festival also has a unique set of food preparation. Of late, the festival has evolved with themes matching the contemporary season one is in.
Though Navaratri celebrations were restricted last year on account of the Covid-19 pandemic, this year, with a decline in fresh Covid-19 cases and with a large number of the population being vaccinated, celebrations are on at full swing.
At a private apartment in the Idayarpalayam region of Coimbatore, dolls with face masks were placed along with showcasing other pandemic guidelines that were issued for public safety.
Navadhanya dolls, kubera, sports dolls, Hindu mythological dolls, dolls resembling school students with face masks, wedding-themed dolls with face masks, Therotam (chariot procession), a procession of gods and parades were showcased.
Tiny kitchen furniture, toys including animals, trees, and birds, and the Adivasi people were also featured as part of the show. Bhajans were sung with enthusiastic participation by children and elders.
College students opined that it was a pleasure to celebrate Navaratri with everyone this year in person, with Covid-infections being minimal. The devotees also shared the offerings prepared for the goddesses.