Navratri 2017: Celebrating the Year of the Devi
Our society needs a strong foundation to stand upon and women are the unshakable pillars of this world. Over the last year, women around the world have made their mark in the field of sports, business, politics, education, entertainment, et al – perfectly exhibiting their leadership qualities, perseverance, and courage, thus ushering in the Year of the Devi.
From the everyday women in our lives to the invisible force that nurtures us all, the feminine spirit or Devi Shakti manifests itself in glorious forms. This Navratri, as we retreat to the cocoons of our vast inner Self, let’s honor the primordial source of this existence – the Devi Shakti.
'Navratri' means the 'nine nights'. 'Nava' means 'nine', and 'ratri' means 'night'. Nights provide rest and rejuvenation. At night you turn inward (you sleep) and you feel refreshed and rested in the morning. In the same way, Navratri or the Nine Nights is that time (of the year) when you turn inward towards your source. It is the time of the year to spend with yourself, nurturing and rejuvenating yourself through prayers, chants, meditation, fasting, and other spiritual practices, and coming out feeling refreshed, renewed and creative.
