Every year, Navratri, meaning “nine nights” is celebrated by millions of people across the world including here in the UK. Navratri, celebrated by Hindus, celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the evil demon Mahishasura . The centuries old celebration is one of the most colourful festivals in the Hindu calendar and this year’s festivities were no different.
Hundreds of people enjoyed themselves at the SKPLC event in Northolt, dressed in traditional Indian attire from children to the elderly, playing a Raas (a dance) in circles around an idol of the goddess Durga in synchronised movements. Risha Kanabar , an attendee of the festival said “My first time coming here was when I was very little and my mum brought me in a pushchair” and she tries to come every year now. There were number of dances including Dandia which involves striking sticks against each other in unison. This dance is especially popular among the younger generation due to its fast pace and the flexibility to introduce their own unique styles. In between the dances, there was a special prayer called aarti where everyone comes together, holding rangoli designs and candles in devotion to the Gods.
The event was a chance for the whole community to come together and experience the last festival before Diwali, and was something that communities around the world, especially in the UK missed during the COVID-19 lockdown periods.
For many this was also a time of reflection and preparation for the transition to the winter months and the hardships that it brings upon family and friends.
