# Navaratri Must-Haves from India for NRIs
Navaratri, one of the most vibrant and significant festivals in India, celebrates the divine feminine and is marked by nine nights of worship, dance, and festivities. For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), celebrating Navaratri can be a beautiful way to connect with their roots, but it can also pose a challenge in terms of finding the right items to make the celebration special. Here’s a guide to essential Navaratri must-haves from India that will help NRIs recreate the festival spirit at home.
## 1. Traditional Attire
**Lehengas and Kurtas:** A stunning lehenga or a colorful kurta is essential for the festive season. Look for outfits adorned with traditional embroidery, mirror work, or vibrant prints. These not only enhance the celebratory spirit but also connect you to the culture.
## 2. Puja Essentials
**Idols and Idols:** A small idol of Goddess Durga or other deities is central to the puja. You can also include a decorative thali, diya (lamp), and incense sticks to create an inviting atmosphere.
**Puja Samagri:** Gather essential puja items such as kumkum, haldi, flowers, and sweets. Having these on hand ensures you can perform rituals with authenticity.
## 3. Decor Items
**Festive Rangoli Colors:** Create stunning rangoli designs at your entrance using colorful powders or rice. Bringing in some rangoli patterns is a fantastic way to invite positivity.
**Torans and Bandhanwars:** Decorate your home with traditional torans (door hangings) made of marigolds or beads to add to the festive charm.
## 4. Music and Dance
**Garba and Dandiya Music:** No Navaratri celebration is complete without music! Bring back CDs or download playlists of traditional Garba and Dandiya songs to set the mood for your dance nights.
## 5. Snacks and Sweets
**Traditional Sweets:** Stock up on Indian sweets like modaks, ladoos, and barfis. These can either be homemade or store-bought from authentic Indian stores.
**Savory Snacks:** Don’t forget savory treats like chaklis and mathris to serve your guests during the festivities.
## 6. Cultural Books and Art
**Scripture and Literature:** Invest in books about Navaratri, stories of Goddess Durga, or recipes for traditional dishes. This not only enhances your understanding of the festival but also enriches the experience for your family.
**Local Handicrafts:** Bring back some handmade artifacts or paintings that reflect Indian culture and add a unique touch to your decor.
## 7. Virtual Celebration Tools
**Video Conferencing Tools:** If you can’t be with family during the festival, set up virtual gatherings. Use video conferencing platforms to connect with loved ones and celebrate together.
## Conclusion
Celebrating Navaratri as an NRI can be a rewarding experience that fosters a sense of community and connection to one’s heritage. By incorporating these must-haves from India, you can create a festive atmosphere that honors tradition while allowing for personal expression. Embrace the colors, sounds, and flavors of Navaratri, and let the spirit of the festival illuminate your home, no matter where you are in the world.
