India, Oct. 8 -- Navratri is a time when homes are filled with prayer, devotion, and the presence of Maa Durga. For nine days, you may worship different forms of the Goddess, observe a fast, prepare special bhog and follow family traditions passed down through generations. Beyond the rituals, the festival also gives you a chance to slow down, bring more discipline into your routine and focus on faith and positivity.

According to Gurudev Vikrant Jain, chairman and founder of the Indian Institute of Vedic Science, you should approach Navratri with a clean heart, a peaceful mind and sincerity in your puja. He suggests beginning by cleaning yourself and the puja area, followed by Ghatasthapana at the appropriate muhurat. You can then offer f...