Rajasthan hosts a number of festivals with a lot of fanfare and enthusiasm. Navratri is one of the most popular festivals. This festival holds great significance among people as it is associated with the blessings of Goddess Durga, which represents Shakti, the cosmic energy that animates all beings. This festival symbolizes health and prosperity, and is celebrated in a very traditional way.
During the nine days, they worship the different forms of Goddess Durga. There are a number of customs and rituals performed during this festival.
This festival acquires quite a fascinating and colorful dimension. The highlights of the festival are the extremely colorful dances of Garbha and Dandiya-Raas. These dances are performed by a group who move graceful and rhythmic manner in circles to measure steps, marking time by sticks and hands. Both men and women dressed in the traditional attires with beautifully designed accessories.
Navratri festival is so much popular among tourists also because it is a great medium to get close to the rich culture of Rajasthan.
During the duration of Navratras, the elephant ride is not allowed till the top. However elephants do ply till the paota.
Navratri celebration is scheduled from October16 to 24, 2012 all over Rajasthan and near by states.
