Public Holiday for Navami in UP | 11 Oct 2024

Why in News?

Recently, the Uttar Pradesh government declared a public holiday on 11^th October, 2024, in observance of Navami, a significant day in Hindu traditions.

Key Points

Navami marks the end of Navratri with rituals like ‘Kanya Bhoj’ and havan (sacred fire ceremonies).
In the Hindu calendar, Navami is the ninth day of the lunar fortnight (Paksha). Each month has two Navami days, one on the ninth day of the "bright" (Shukla) fortnight and one on the ninth day of the "dark" (Krishna) fortnight.
Navami is also associated with two festivals in Hinduism.
- Maha Navami: The ninth day of Sharad Navratri, Maha Navami commemorates the day when Goddess Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
- Ram Navami: A festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama.

Classification of Calendars in India

Calendar	Type	Zero Year	Origin	Key Features
Vikram Samvat	Hindu Lunar Calendar	57 B.C.	Introduced by King Vikramaditya after victory over Sakas	Lunar-based; 12 months with 354 days; divided into Shuklapaksha (bright half) and Krishnapaksha (dark half); 13th month (Adhik Mass) in certain years.
Saka Samvat	Hindu Solar Calendar	78 A.D.	Introduced by Saka rulers after defeating the Kushanas	Solar-based; adopted as the official calendar of India in 1957; each year has 365 days.
Hijri Calendar	Islamic Lunar Calendar	622 A.D.	Originated in Saudi Arabia	Lunar-based; 12 months with 354 days; the 9th month, Ramzaan, is observed for fasting.
Gregorian Calendar	Scientific Solar Calendar	1582 A.D.	Introduced by Pope Gregory XIII	Solar-based; replaced the Julian calendar; civil calendar in use today; 365 days with leap years to correct for 365.25 days.