Satara Village Keeps 350-Year-Old Standing Navratri Tradition Alive

SATARA: A unique 350-year-old Navratri tradition continues in Pande village, near Wai in Maharashtra’s Satara district, where devotees observe nine days and nights without sitting or sleeping on the ground. Known as “Ubhyachi Navratra” or Standing Navratri, the ritual is observed at the Kalbhairavnath temple in honour of the village deity, Lord Kalbhairavnath.

Around 100 men participate in the tradition each year. Known as Navratkaris, the devotees, aged between approximately 18 and 65, take a vow, or “navas,” either to fulfil a wish or to express gratitude to the deity. At least one member from many participating families joins the ritual.

According to temple committee chairman Hemant Jadhav, devotees may pledge to observe the practice for three, five, seven, ten or more years. Even villagers who live and work outside Pande, including those serving in the armed forces, take leave to return home and participate in the centuries-old tradition.

The ritual requires strict discipline. Participants cannot sit or sleep on the ground during the nine-day observance. To rest, they lean their chests against specially suspended hammocks known as “chauphala,” while keeping one foot on the ground and raising the other.

The tradition reflects the deep religious faith and community spirit of Pande’s residents. Passed down through generations, Standing Navratri remains an important part of the village’s cultural and spiritual identity.