Navratri Festival Importance in India: Meaning, Significance & Celebration Updated on April 22, 2026 Introduction Navratri is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. The word “Navratri” means “nine nights,” during which devotees worship Goddess Durga in her nine divine forms. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is celebrated with great devotion, fasting, and cultural activities across the country. Know in detail Dussehra 2026: Significance, Story..  Navratri Festival illustration image Why is Navratri Celebrated? (History)  Navratri is celebrated to honor Goddess Durga and her victory over the demon Mahishasura. According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura was a powerful demon who created chaos in the universe. To defeat him, Goddess Durga took a powerful form and fought for nine days and nights, finally defeating him on the tenth day, known as Dussehra. This victory represents the triumph of righteousness (dharma) over evi...