Why is Gupt Navratri called the ‘secret’ Navratri? Yuvika Dhar explains

Why is Gupt Navratri called the 'secret' Navratri? Yuvika Dhar explains

Why is Gupt Navratri called the secret - This year, the Ashadha Gupt Navratri will take place from July 15 to July 23, offering a serene alternative to the vibrant festivals of Chaitra and Sharad Navratri. Unlike the latter, which often involves public rituals, feasts, and communal gatherings, Gupt Navratri is celebrated in a more introspective manner, emphasizing quiet spiritual practice.

Also Read: Gupt Navratri 2026: Date, timings and the spiritual significance of this sacred nine-day observance

"Gupt means hidden or secret," explains Yuvika Dhar. "This Navratri is a deeply personal experience where seekers prioritize private devotion over public displays. When practice is rooted in sincerity and not driven by external validation, the spiritual energy becomes more profound, aiding deeper progress on the path of inner growth."

Sharad Navratri, in contrast, is marked by its outward expressions—prayers, festive meals, and community events. Gupt Navratri, however, invites individuals to retreat inward, focusing on meditation, mantra repetition, and solitude. As Dhar notes, "There are no feasts or social festivities during this time. The true essence lies in the inner joy that arises from divine connection."

Focus on the Divine Mother’s Ten Forms

While Sharad Navratri honors the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, Gupt Navratri centers on the Dasa Mahavidyas. These include Kali, Tara, Tripurasundari, Bhuvaneshwari, Bhairavi, Chinnamasta, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi, and Kamalatmika. In South India, some devotees specifically venerate Goddess Varahi during this period, seeking her protective blessings.

Dhar highlights that the choice of deity depends on individual guidance, often from a Guru or chosen spiritual figure. "Each practitioner selects the form that resonates most with their inner journey," she says. This personalized approach aligns with the festival’s goal of fostering inner transformation.

Preparation for Spiritual Retreat

To maximize the benefits of Gupt Navratri, Dhar recommends preparing physically and mentally. Devotees are advised to avoid heavy meals, alcohol, and bustling environments that may disrupt focus. Instead, she suggests embracing simplicity in food, practicing yoga and pranayama, and minimizing chatter to cultivate silence.

"The essence of Gupt Navratri is to detach from worldly distractions and reconnect with the self," she emphasizes. This period is viewed as a chance to deepen spiritual discipline, experience tranquility, and align with cosmic energies through mindful reflection.

Soumi Pyne, a Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, has four years of experience covering astrology, manifestation, and tarot. Her work includes interviewing astrologers and exploring their insights, as well as chronicling stories like the indigo pilot who saved Indian students in Ukraine. Before focusing on astrology, she contributed to thought leadership pieces in the HT Insight section and produced newsletters for Live Mint and Hindustan Times.

Outside her professional role, Pyne maintains a balanced lifestyle through yoga, meditation, and gluten-free cooking. She is passionate about documentaries, particularly those on ancient history, space, and art, and enjoys exploring new cafes with her dog or embarking on family adventures to unique locations.