The day before Navaratri, is Mahalaya Amavasya – a day to express our gratitude to previous generations. A special Agni Arpana and Kalabhairava Shanti Process – a process for one’s ancestors –happens on this day.

The focal point of the Navaratri celebrations is Linga Bhairavi. Worship of the feminine has always been a powerful presence in Indian culture, and Navaratri is an exploration of the three main forms of the Goddess – Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Accordingly, Linga Bhairavi takes on 3 different colours and forms for every 3-day period during Navaratri. Each day of Navaratri includes the Navaratri Pooja, a powerful opportunity to imbibe Devi’s Grace. The pooja is followed by the Linga Bhairavi Procession and Maha Arati.

Vijayadashami, the day after the nine days of Navaratri, is seen as an auspicious time for children to be initiated into education. At Linga Bhairavi, a special vidyarambam for children is conducted, followed in the afternoon by a special vidyarambam for rural children from nearby villages.