Kochi, 11 Oct (H.S.): Navaratri celebrations began on Sunday, with Hindu households in Kochi arranging colourful displays of dolls and figurines, known as Bomma Kolu, marking the start of the festival dedicated to the goddess.

A feature of the celebrations, the displays bring together religious imagery and scenes from everyday life. Families arrange the figurines on tiered platforms, traditionally comprising three, five, seven or nine steps.

Nine tiers symbolise the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga. Each level is covered with colourful fabric and decorated with flowers and lamps, turning household spaces into settings for worship.

The arrangements include figures of Saraswati, Ashtalakshmi, the ten avatars of Vishnu, Rama’s coronation, Ganapati, Subrahmanya, Shiva and Parvati, and Krishna and Radha. Miniature farmers, traders, parks and village scenes add a glimpse of ordinary life.

An elaborately adorned representation of the goddess, featuring a decorated face, garments and jewellery, often forms the centrepiece.

According to the festival schedule, celebrations will continue until October 21. Mahanavami and Ayudha Puja fall on October 20, followed by Vijayadashami, Vidyarambham and the ceremonial removal of items placed for worship on October 21.

Navaratri honours different manifestations of divine feminine power. In one tradition, the first three days are devoted to Parvati, the next three to Lakshmi and the final three to Saraswati.

In Kerala, the concluding days hold particular significance. Books and learning materials are placed for worship on Ashtami, while devotees traditionally refrain from studying on Navami.

Vijayadashami marks Vidyarambham, when children are introduced to letters and learning.

Observances vary among families, with some following the full festival period and others concentrating on the final three days. Devotees undertake prayers, temple visits, fasting and recitation of sacred texts.

These practices are regarded by believers as expressions of devotion and as prayers for knowledge, prosperity, family wellbeing and spiritual fulfilment.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman