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.
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