Navaratri is the longest Hindu festival that continues for nine consecutive nights in praise of Lord Rama. Continuous chanting from the great epic Ramayana, along with evening performances from the episodes of his life, is held for nine days.

It is a combination of many concepts. It is believed that Durga, the goddess of power and vitality, has nine forms called Navadurga and each day of the nine days, she takes a new form, with an arsenal of weapons, to ride a lion and fight the demon Mahishashura.

Vijaydashmi or Dussehra, the 10^th day, is celebrated with feasting and rejoicing as her day of victory. Lord Rama is said to have worshipped the Goddess, seeking her blessing in order to overpower the evil force of Ravana, the abductor of his beloved wife Sita.

Gujaratis perform their traditional dances 'Garba' & 'Dandiya-Raas' during Navratri. The women-folk dance in a circle, singing 'Garbas' or traditional songs.'Dandiya-Raas' is played with wooden sticks or 'dandiyas'. Young men-women wear colourful traditional dresses and play Garba with great enthusiasm.