Navarathri - the nine sacred nights is one of the most celebrated festivals of India.
And its one of my favourite too :)
This begins from the first day (Pradhamai) after Amavasya in the month of Purattasi as it is known in Tamil. This nine days festival is essentially celebrated to worship Devi and to commemorate the victory of good over evil, i.e bringing to an end the atrocities of Asuras like Mahishasuran, Shumban, Nishumban, Madhukaidapan, Thumralochanan and Rakthabheejan.
During Navrathri Devi is worshipped in the form of Sri Durga for the first three days, as Sri Lakshmi for the second three days and as Sri Saraswati for the next three days.
The best part of navarathri is Kolu/Golu.
Golu is basically adorned with dolls - predominantly with that of the Gods and Goddesses depicting mythology.
This year the Navarathri beginned at Mahalaya (sept 30th) and ended at Vijayadasmi (Oct 08th)
So here is the kolu at our home :)