9 TRADITIONAL GIFTING OPTIONS FOR NAVRATRI

 

 

Navratri and Dussehra

These Hindu festivals Navratri often involve giving gifts, especially to young children. It is a time for the community to come together and celebrate the victory of good over evil.

Navratri should not be limited to 'Puja-Paath' and should also include acts of kindness in the form of donations and charity. During the 9 days of Navratri and after that, people should donate food, clothes, money, or other important stuff to the less fortunate.

The concept of giving gifts during Navratri is a tradition that symbolizes love, warmth, and goodwill. It's a way to strengthen bonds with family and friends and to spread happiness and togetherness. 

1. Auspicious things to buy for Navratri:

these include a bindi, perfume, henna, anklets, waistbands, finger rings, maang tikka, sindoor, kajal, bangles, toe rings, a wedding dress, flowers for the hair, earrings, etc.

2. Goddess Lakshmi Idol: Bringing an idol of Goddess Lakshmi during Navratri is considered a blessing. In South India, dolls and figurines are also given as gifts.

Navratri is a Hindu festival that involves giving gifts, especially to young children. The word "Navratri" means "nine nights" in Sanskrit. During Navratri, people observe fasts and offer special prayers to the "Nine Forms of Maa Durga". 

In India, exchanging gifts during festivals, weddings, and special occasions is common. Popular gifts include sweets, clothing, accessories, religious items, and home decor. 

Gifts that connect with tradition and culture, and that delight the recipient should be the norm in selecting gifts.  During Navratri, people exchange gifts to spread joy and positivity.

Here are some things to consider when giving gifts during Navratri: 

3. Kanya Pujan:

A significant ritual occurs on the eighth or ninth day of Navratri. During this ritual, young girls are invited to homes, worshipped, and given gifts. Some gift ideas for Kanya Pujan include brass diyas, Ganesha idol combos, metal lunch boxes, insulated metal bottles, bamboo hand towels, etc.

4. Sweets:

Sweets are a traditional gift for Navratri because the ingredients used to make them are considered pure and safe to offer to Gods. Dry fruits were also taken into consideration to be given as gifts.

5. Handcrafted diyas:

Diyas are a symbol of removing darkness and negativity. Hand-painted earthen diyas with attractive designs are a great gift for Navratri. 

6. Flowers:

A bouquet of colorful flowers is a thoughtful and affordable gift for Navratri. 

7. Cosmetics:

A set of cosmetics like a comb, lipstick, nail polish, and a little mirror is a kind gesture for the kanjak puja. 

8. Gift hampers:

Gifts for Navratri can include clothes, coconut, and sweets. Married women may also exchange small bags with items like turmeric, beetle leaves, comb, and mirror. These days’ gift hampers are shared so that the recipient can buy anything of their choice in the said amount.

 

9. Toys and games/ stationary:

Toys like teddy bears, dolls, kitchen sets, or doctor's sets can be good options. Games like puzzles, blocks, or Scrabble can also be a good choice, especially for children. Stationery items were also gifted to children to start using on Vijayadashami day

 

Thus, the excitement surrounding Navratri gifts transcends mere possessions, encompassing the spirit of generosity and celebration that defines this vibrant festival. In conclusion, Navratri gift-giving is a wonderful tradition that fosters love, unity, and joy among friends and family members.