I am not a very religious person. Matter-of-fact, I barely even go to the temple any more and rarely pray. But deep in my heart I know that God exists. I just don’t believe in all the man-made rules and teachings. Because I grew up in a home where my mother was quite religious and it was mandatory for all of us to participate during religious and cultural events, I’ve become accustom to those events. Plus, I have a daughter now and I’d like for her to learn and get to know her religion and culture, even if she decides to not follow it once she begins to understand it. I wouldn’t force our religion or culture on her. But yes, I don’t want to deprive her of it either.
Anyway, today is Durga Ashtami. The Goddess Durga is prayed to today. It is the end of a nine-day fast, Navratri. Navratri is the festival of worshipping Durga (Goddess). There are nine reincarnations of Durga/Shakti; Brahmcharñi, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri. I’ve got links below to allow you to read up the complete meaning and details of Navratri.
Part of the celebration today, we are to ask for blessings from nine-virgins (Kanchak). Since, I won’t be able to go to the temple early this morning, I prayed last night and this morning asked my little Kanchak, Ni for blessings. I also prepared Halwa, Black Chanay and Rotis to take to the temple this evening.
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Ziddi Tamana 