Watch | Navratri celebrations begin

Devotees across India thronged temples on the first day Navratri. This year, for the first time since 2000, it will last for 10 days due to the first day of Navratri being spread over two days due to the lunar calendar. Devotees thronged the Jhandelwalan temple in New Delhi to seek the blessings of goddess Durga. The temple, especially the altar, were decorated for the occasion as priests performed special rituals. It is believed that during Navratri, goddess Durga descends on earth to rid it of demons and bless her devotees with happiness and prosperity.