AGARTALA, Oct 14 (TIWN): From temples to Durga pandals, Maha-Navami puja was observed with full devotion in Tripura.Sharada Navaratri and Durga Puja are celebrated in honour of goddess Durga - the devi or deity of shakti (strength).The holy festival is observed in the Hindu (lunisolar) calendar month of Ashvin, which typically falls in the Gregorian (solar) calendar months of September and October.

Why Is Maha Navami (Durga Navami) Celebrated? A Brief History

Maha Navami (Mahanavami) or Durga Navami is celebrated as the victory of good over evil. It is the last day of battle between goddess Durga and demon Mahishasura. Maha Navami begins with Mahasnan (holy bath), followed by prayers to goddess Durga or Maa Durga. It is believed that on Maha Navami goddess Durga is worshipped as Mahisasuramardini - which literally means the slayer of the buffalo demon. On Maha Navami, Durga Maa made her final assault on demon Mahishasura, and the following morning, on Vijayadashami, triumphed over him. In fact, Vijayadashami derives its name from the Sanskrit and Hindi words Vijaya meaning victorious or triumphant, and Dashami, meaning tenth day. Vijayadashami is also celebrated as Dussehra, which too derives its name from the Sanskrit words Dush meaning bad or evil, and Hara which means defeating or destroying - thereby signifying the victory of good over evil.

What Is Ram Navami? How Is It Different From Maha Navami (Durga Navami)?

Ram Navami is the festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ram. It is celebrated on the ninth day of Shukla Paksha (or bright phase of the lunar fortnight) in the month of Chaitra (mid-march) of the Hindu or lunisolar calendar. This typically occurs in the Gregorian solar calendar months of March or April every year.