On October 20, students from the International Students Faculty celebrated the festival of Navaratri.
Navaratri is one of the most significant sacred festivals in Hinduism, dedicated to the Divine Mother—Adi Parashakti, the eternal cosmic Energy from which the entire Universe is born, by which it is sustained, and to which it eventually returns.

The Sanskrit term “Navaratri” means “nine nights.” Over the course of nine nights and ten days, Devi Durga is honored in her nine manifestations, known as the Navadurga. Each form of the Mother embodies a specific divine power: wisdom, fearlessness, purity, compassion, protection, and spiritual liberation.

The core essence of Navaratri lies in the triumph of Divine Light over the darkness of ignorance. According to sacred tradition, Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura, who personifies pride, ignorance, and destructive forces. This victory also symbolizes an individual’s inner transformation—a triumph over one’s own fears, attachments, and ego.

The students decorated the hall where the celebration took place with flowers, lit lamps, performed pujas, and offered fruits and incense to the Mother. They also recited the Devi Mahatmya, sang hymns, and chanted mantras.

The students extend special thanks to the Rector of TNMU Petro Lykhatsky and the Dean of the International Students Faculty Mariia Marushchak, for their support and participation in the celebration.