Special Events and Traditions

This Navaratri we celebrated many special traditions that are unique to the Bengal region of India.

This post is an attempt to not only share these special traditions, but also to remember special friends and devotees that Shree Maa and Swamiji hadn’t seen in a long time and to share a few unique moments that made this trip memorable.

There was so much that we experienced that it is impossible to capture it all, but I’ve done my best to illustrate the highights.

I hope you enjoy.

Shree Maa’s Dance

Of course a memorable part of any gathering is Shree Maa’s dancing. Here She appears to have picked up some new moves.

Swamiji even joined in the act and it appears like he is enjoying it!

Shree Maa inspired all of us to dance. Here Vish lets it loose on the dance floor! Jai Vish!

Indian Cultural Dance

Our hosts did not let a moment go by without entertainment. We enjoyed three evenings with professional dancers who performed to various folklore and tradition. Shree Maa enjoyed all of the dancing and got out her cymbals to keep beat to the music.

The first group performed traditional Bengali Dance.

The second group performed Krishna stories.

The third group performed the Mahishasura Mardini.

Feeding of Navadurgas and Krishna

One Bengali tradition during Navaratri is the Kanya Puja. I was unaware of this tradition as I don’t recall performing it at the Devi Mandir.

In the Kanya Puja, we feed nine little girls which represent the Navadurgas. This puja reminds us that Devi’s energy is embodied in these little girls.

Here, on day nine of Navaratri, nine little devis and a little Krishna boy was fed in the temple.

Chanting Sessions with Swamiji

Every morning devotees met with Swamiji for chanting of various scriptures. Swamiji was eager to share his newest chants and was in his element as he led the recitation.