Hyderabad, Oct. 7 -- Navratri may be celebrated for nine nights, but there is no single way to celebrate it. Across India, the festival changes its colours, music, food and traditions while keeping devotion to the divine feminine at its heart.

From energetic Garba circles to flower-filled Bathukamma celebrations, here is how different parts of India mark this festive season.

1. Gujarat: Garba takes over the night

In Gujarat, Navratri means nine nights of Garba and Dandiya. People dress in colourful traditional outfits and gather at community grounds and venues.

Garba is performed in circles around a central lamp or decorated pot, while Dandiya Raas uses decorated sticks and adds to the energy. Music, dance and devotion continue late i...