Culture
Navratri means 'nine nights', during which devotees worship nine avatars of Maa Durga known as Navdurga each night. It is celebrated twice a year with great devotion and zest.
Chaitra Navratri marks the arrival of spring in India. It is celebrated in the month of Chaitra, generally in March or April. It celebrates the birth of Maa Durga's cosmos.
Chaitra Navratri represents fertility and renewal as worshipers believe that Maa Durga visits from heaven on this day. It ends with Ram Navami, birth of Lord Rama.
Sharad Navratri occurs during Ashwin Masa, falling in September or October. While Chaitra Navratri symbolises renewal, Sharad represents the victory of Maa Durga over evil.
The major difference lies in the timing of both. Chaitra Navratri is celebrated in spring, representing growth, while Sharad represents autumn and harvest.