To which goddess is the festival of Navratri dedicated to?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: Durga.
Explanation:
The festival of Navaratri is primarily dedicated to Durga, the Goddess of Power (Shakti), and her nine distinct forms (Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri). This festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated to commemorate the slaying of the demon Mahishasura by the Goddess in her form as 'Mahishasuramardini.' Navaratri occurs four times a year, with 'Sharadiya Navaratri' and 'Chaitra Navaratri' being the most prominent. In West Bengal, it is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur as 'Durga Puja,' which has been accorded the status of 'Intangible Cultural Heritage' by UNESCO.
Additional Points:
Goddess Lakshmi: Worshipped for wealth and prosperity during Diwali.
Goddess Saraswati: Worshipped as the Goddess of knowledge and arts on the day of Vasant Panchami.
Parvati: Considered to be the serene aspect of Goddess Durga herself and is the consort of Lord Shiva.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: How many forms of the Goddess are worshipped during Navaratri?
Answer: Nine forms.
Question: Which Indian festival has been declared an 'Intangible Cultural Heritage' by UNESCO?
Answer: Kolkata's Durga Puja.