Vasant Navaratri is celebrated all around the country. This nine day ritual begins on the first day of Chaitra month in spring (April). Vasant Navaratri is dedicated to the goddess
Gauri, the youthful form of
Parvati. Vasant Navaratri is very auspicious for women and during this time they wear festive garments. Sweets and fruits are exchanged between families.
For the Jains, this is the time when they observe Ayambil Oli, fasting and eating only pulses and cereals. They abstain from the use of spices and ghee. For the Jains, this is an occasion of purification and penance.
