Navratri the nine-night festival dedicated to the Divine Feminine is more than just fasting, fashion, and garba. At its heart lies deep devotion, expressed powerfully through the sacred rituals of aarti (ceremonial prayer songs).
Across India, temples come alive with vibrant lamps, resonating chants, and an energy that feels otherworldly.
If you want to truly immerse yourself in the spirit of Navratri, witnessing a temple aarti can be transformative. Here are some of the most famous temple aartis across India that are especially magical during this festival.
1. Vaishno Devi Aarti – Katra, Jammu & Kashmir
Why it’s special:
Set in the Trikuta Mountains, the Vaishno Devi shrine sees a divine confluence of faith and devotion. The early morning and evening aartis here are an elaborate affair, lasting nearly two hours. Devotees believe the Goddess herself listens during this sacred time.
Navratri vibe:
During Navratri, the entire mountain echoes with bhajans and chants. The spiritual energy is palpable as thousands of pilgrims climb the trek to receive the goddess’s blessings.
2. Kamakhya Temple Aarti – Guwahati, Assam
Why it’s special:
Dedicated to the fierce form of Shakti, the Kamakhya Temple is a revered tantrik site. Its Navratri rituals attract sadhus, devotees, and spiritual seekers alike.
Navratri vibe:
The aarti here is intense, with strong shakti mantras, incense, and a deep sense of mysticism. The energy is raw and empowering especially during Maha Navami.
3. Kalighat Temple Aarti – Kolkata, West Bengal
Why it’s special:
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, Kalighat is one of the most important sites for goddess worship. During Durga Puja, the temple sees an overflow of faith, devotion, and festivity.
Navratri vibe:
Though Bengal celebrates Durga Puja as the grand finale of Navratri, the aarti at Kalighat is a deep, sacred moment amidst the grandeur. The ringing bells and synchronized chanting offer a moment of stillness in a vibrant crowd.
4. Ambaji Temple Aarti – Gujarat
Why it’s special:
Located near the Rajasthan-Gujarat border, Ambaji Temple is one of the 51 original Shakti Peeths. The evening aarti, set against a golden backdrop of diyas and chanting, is a sight to behold.
Navratri vibe:
Gujarat comes alive with Garba, but spiritual seekers find their grounding here. The Chaitra and Sharad Navratri aartis are packed with emotion, devotion, and community singing.
5. Chamunda Devi Temple Aarti – Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
Why it’s special:
Overlooking the scenic Dhauladhar ranges, Chamunda Devi Temple offers a powerful combination of serenity and shakti. The aartis here are simple, soulful, and deeply stirring.
Navratri vibe:
With traditional pahadi drums and chants echoing in the valley, the Navratri aartis make you feel like you’ve entered a sacred cocoon in the Himalayas.
6. Mumbadevi Temple Aarti – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Why it’s special:
Located in the heart of Mumbai, the Mumbadevi Temple (the city’s namesake goddess) remains a powerful spiritual center.
Navratri vibe:
Despite the bustle of the city, the temple’s aarti during Navratri is calming. Women clad in traditional attire offer coconuts, red chunris, and dance lightly to the rhythm of the aarti. It's faith, Mumbai-style.
Final Thoughts:
Navratri is a time when India glows not just in lights and colors, but in devotion and divine energy. Attending an aarti during this period isn’t just about ritual it’s about surrendering to something greater than yourself.
So this Navratri, go beyond the décor and dandiya. Find your way to a temple, stand among the devotees, and let the light of aarti touch your soul.
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