In Smolensk celebrated Autumn Navratri

Indian students studying at Smolensk State Medical University celebrated the Navratri holiday.

Navratri (or Navaratri) is one of the most important and ancient Hindu holidays, the name of which in Sanskrit means “nine nights”. It is dedicated to honoring the Divine Mother, or Shakti, in her nine different forms.

In 2026, Autumn Navratri is celebrated from 10 to 20 October. It is the largest and most famous of all Navratri, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. It will end with the celebration of Vijay Dashami (Dushera).

The holiday symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness. According to mythology, the goddess Durga fought for nine days and nights against the demon Mahishasura, who took the form of a buffalo, and won on the tenth day. For believers, this is a time of deep inner work: cleansing from negativity, getting rid of old habits and acquiring good qualities. It is believed that sincere prayers these days help to overcome the influence of planetary negative effects.