Navratri is a major Hindu festival that spans nine nights, celebrating the divine feminine energy and the triumph of good over evil. The word "Navratri" comes from Sanskrit, where "Nav" means nine and "Ratri" means night. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga and her nine different forms, known as Navdurga.

Navratri is celebrated twice a year: Chaitra Navratri in the spring and Sharad Navratri in the autumn. The most popular is Sharad Navratri, which typically occurs in September or October. During these nine days, devotees fast, pray, and participate in various rituals and ceremonies. Each day of Navratri is associated with a different avatar of Goddess Durga, symbolizing distinct virtues such as power, knowledge, and wealth.

In different regions of India, Navratri is celebrated with unique traditions. In Gujarat, it is marked by vibrant Garba and Dandiya dances, while in West Bengal, it is observed as Durga Puja, with elaborate pandals and idol worship. The festival concludes with Dussehra, commemorating Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana or the slaying of the buffalo demon Mahishasura by Durga, symbolizing the ultimate victory of good over evil.