On Navaratri

“Mahalaya Paksham, special for the offerings done to departed souls,

culminates in New Moon, which is today and the auspicious Navaratri begins
tomorrow. A woman-centric festival, it is marked by chanting of slokas, Sri
Lalitha Sahasranamam occupying pride of place.

Parayanam of Devi Mahatmyam is done as a routine in many households.

“The reading has to be done with great care taken not to mutilate the
syllables,” observes Sastrigal. He suggests a simple puja (October 5-14) in
this context. “Light a kuthu vilakku (all faces) and do archana reciting
Lakshmi ashtotram. Do nine pradikshana and nine namaskarams.
Deeparadana and arati with simple neivadyam will complete the ritual.
Women may do this in their traditional attire.”

Contact Sarma Sastrigal at 9444380973 and sarmasasthrigal@gmail.com