The origins of Navratri can be traced back to ancient India, and have its roots deeply intertwined with agricultural backgrounds and the worship of feminine energy amongst the locals.

The first reference to Navratri can be traced back to ancient texts such as the Devi Mahatmya and Markandeya Purana, dating back to a period between the 5th and 6th century CE. They refer to the battle between Goddess Durga and the buffalo demon Mahishasura, which resulted in the worship of the Goddess in her nine forms, also known as Navadurga. Mahishsura was a powerful demon with the ability to change his form and was believed to have terrorised the heavens and earth by defeating the gods and taking control of all of the universe. His invincibility was acquired through a boon granted by Lord Brahma, which stated that no man or God could kill him. In response to his imperiousness, the gods are believed to have combined their energies to create a powerful Goddess, Durga, an embodiment of divine feminine energy or Shakti. Armed with weapons provided by the gods and riding a lion, Durga fought a battle against Mahishasura, which lasted nine days and nights and marked the defeat of Mahishasura on the 10th day, also known as Dussehra or Vijayadashami. 

It is believed that during the Vedic period, from 1500 to 500 BCE, the worship of Shakti or feminine divine energy was frequent. It was during the Gupta period between 320 and 550 CE when the worship of Goddess Durga became characterised. During this period, the Devi Mahatmya was written, which led to the popularisation of the worship of Goddess Durga.

The meaning of Navratri “nine nights” and holds extensive religious significance in Hinduism. It is celebrated twice: once during spring also known as Chaitra Navratri, and once in autumn, called Sharad Navratri. The nine forms of Durga, collectively known as Navadurga, are celebrated on each day of Navratri. The nine forms of Durga encapsulate themes like her being the daughter of the mountains, the Goddess of penance and austerity, the Goddess that embodies bravery and valour, the power of creation, the mother of Kartikeya, the Goddess of strength and courage, the destruction of ignorance and evil, the transformative power of penance, and the goddess who grants all spiritual accomplishments.

The essential rituals during the nine days of Navratri are an amalgamation of the religious and cultural diversity of the country. It begins with the ritual of Kalash Sthapna. In this ritual, a sacred pot or kalash filled with mango leaves, water, and a coconut is placed on a decorated altar. The kalash is believed to represent the universe. Each of the nine days of Navratri holds celebrations to honour Navadurga. A common practice observed in most households during Navratri is fasting. Usually performed by women, they either opt for complete abstinence from food and water or people consume only specific navratri foods like milk, fruits, Sabudana, Kattu and Singhara. It is seen as a form of self-discipline or Tapa, believed to purify one’s body and mind. It is believed that through this, the devotees align with a divine spiritual focus. In Gujarat and other parts of Western India, the Garba and Dandiya Raas are integral to the Navratri celebrations. Garba, a type of navratri dance is usually performed in a circle around a placed image or symbol of the goddess, while the Dandiya Raas involves dancing with sticks. It is a significant cultural event where people dance in large groups in community spaces. The circular movement symbolises the cyclic nature of life and the universe, while the sticks represent the swords. On the eighth or ninth day of Navratri, also known as Ashtami or Navami, houses celebrate the Kanya Puja, where young girls between the ages of two and ten are worshipped as incarnations of Goddess Durga. They are offered food, money, and gifts as a gesture of respect. 

The 10th day of Navratri is also known as Vijay Dashmi or Dussehra and marks the victory of Durga over Maishasura and Lord Rama over Ravana. Celebrated by the burning of the caricature of the ten-headed demon Ravana, this day represents the destruction of opposing forces and the ultimate triumph of truth. 

The celebrations of Navratri in West Bengal are prominently the rituals of Durga Puja. They create elaborate idols and artistic pandals that hold cultural programs like music and dance and set up performances that contribute to Bengali pride and cultural distinctiveness.

In Gujarat, Navratri is synonymous with unending nights of Garba and Dandiya dance which are deeply embedded in the state's cultural and social identity. They are not only religious expressions but also cultural markers that showcase the wealthiest artistic heritage of the region. Everybody in the state and beyond participates in Garba and Dandiya with elaborate costumes, folk music, and upbeat dancing styles, which resonate with the Gujarati culture. 

It is a festival which paints a picture of the vibrancy and cultural richness of the Gujarati and Bengali communities of India. The traditional attires worn by men and women are elaborate and colourful renditions with historical significance and cultural importance.

In Gujarat, as they celebrate Garba and Dandiya Raas, women are seen vibrantly dressed in Chaniya Cholis. The Chaniya Choli finds its roots in traditional Gujarati and Rajasthani culture and was initially worn by rural women. Most Chaniyas are made from cotton and silk and are embellished heavily with embroidery like Rabari, mirror work, and more. They also wear an Odhni or dupatta, which is elegantly draped over the shoulder and around the neck to add a layer of modesty to the outfit. The base fabric is usually designed using heritage artisanal techniques like Bandhani and Leheriya. They feature motifs like floral, paisley, and geometric patterns. 

During daytime festivities and pujas, women in West Bengal and Gujarat typically wear sarees made of silk or cotton draped elegantly around the body. As women celebrate the festivals of Navratri and Durga Puja, the saree serves as a symbol of the grace and dignity of the Goddess. Traditionally draped in a Bengali style, sarees are the most consistent choice for attire for women as they take part in pujas during Navratri.

The traditional attire for men in Gujarat is a Kediyu and Dhoti or Kafni. The kediyu is bright coloured, embroidered with intricate artisanal designs, and a short and flared tunic which echoes with the vibrancy of a woman’s chaniya choli. These find their roots in rural Gujarat, where they were worn as practical garments for daily wear. Through the years, they became associated with festivals like Navratri and now make for a great choice to preserve the rustic charm and cultural heritage of the region. Often, men also wear a kurta paired with a pyjama or dhoti as they participate in the rituals and pujas during the daytime.

Men and women both dress in a kaleidoscope of navratri colours like red, yellow, blue, green, and white. Red symbolises strength and power and reflects the fearful aspect of Goddess Durga. Yellow embodies the festive spirit and symbolises happiness and joy, while green aligns with Navratri's theme of growth and prosperity as it represents renewal and nature. Blue reflects calmness and devotion, while whites accent purity and peace, often worn during prayers and rituals.

The designs for Navratri outfits worn by men and women include traditional motifs such as paisley, geometric patterns, and religious symbols, which are manifested on the garments using techniques such as embroidery done by generational artisans. The attire for Navratri plays a central role in the celebrations of the festival and symbolises the timeless values of the festival.