Navratri 2024 in Goa is a special time when people come together to celebrate for nine days with dance, music, delicious food and puja. This year Navratri begins on 2nd October 2024-12th October 2024. It’s a time when Goan traditions mix with the lively spirit of Navratri, creating a unique and joyful celebration that is both fun and spiritual.
Traditions and Customs
During Navratri in Goa, people honour different forms of Goddess Durga, like Sateri, Shantadurga, Bhumika, Bhagvati, and Mauli. One important custom involves placing nine types of seeds in a pot with water. As the seeds grow over the nine days, they represent life and new beginnings. On the tenth day, these sprouts are given to people as blessings, symbolising good luck and the sharing of happiness and prosperity.
Garba and Dandiya
Garba and Dandiya are the main dances of Navratri. The Garba is a dance performed in a circle, while Dandiya involves dancing with sticks. Both dances come from Gujarat but are loved in Goa during Navratri. People dress in colourful traditional clothes and dance to lively music. The dances are not just fun; they bring people together and create happy memories for everyone involved.
Decorations and Ambiance
During Navratri, Goa is decorated with bright colours and lights. Temples, homes, and streets are adorned with beautiful rangolis (colourful floor designs), garlands, and lanterns. Statues of Goddess Durga are beautifully decorated, adding to the festive mood. Traditional music plays, and the lively dances of garba and dandiya make the atmosphere joyful and exciting.Families and friends gather to celebrate, creating a strong sense of community and togetherness.
Delicious Navratri Cuisine
Navratri 2024 in Goa is also a time to enjoy special vegetarian food. During this festival, people prepare and eat dishes without onion, garlic, or meat. Some favourite Navratri dishes are “Sabudana Khichdi,” and “Kuttu Ki Puri,”. These dishes show the cooking skills of Goans and make the festival a delightful experience for everyone’s taste buds.
Top Navratri Destinations in Goa
Goa has many places where Navratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. Some of the top destinations include:
- Mahalasa Narayani Temple, Mardol: Known for its lively celebrations with music and dance, this temple attracts many visitors during Navratri.
- Shantadurga Temple, Kavale: This temple is beautifully decorated and hosts cultural performances that enhance the spiritual experience of Navratri.
- Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandora: The celebrations here include traditional dances like garba and dandiya, making it a vibrant place to visit during Navratri.
