fasts and vrats
What is Gupt Navratri and who observes these lesser-known Navratri fasts?
The four Navratris
Hindu tradition recognizes four Navratri cycles in the year, not just one. The most widely known is Sharad Navratri in autumn. But there are also Chaitra Navratri in spring, and two Gupt Navratris—one in the summer month of Ashadha and one in the winter month of Magha or Pausha. The word 'gupt' means hidden or secret, which is why these two are called the lesser-known Navratris.
Who observes Gupt Navratri
Gupt Navratri is observed mainly by practitioners of Tantric spiritual paths, particularly those in the Vamamarga and Kaula traditions. These are esoteric schools that work with inner practices and ritual worship. Unlike Sharad Navratri, which is celebrated openly in homes and temples with public fasts and festivals, Gupt Navratri is a private practice. Observers do not usually announce it or celebrate it in the community.
What happens during Gupt Navratri
During these nine days, practitioners engage in sadhana, a Sanskrit word for spiritual practice or discipline. The focus is on worshipping the Dasha Mahavidyas, the ten forms of the Divine Mother associated with Tantric wisdom. The rituals and meditations are kept private and are not shared publicly. The Devi Bhagavata Purana, an important text in this tradition, describes these practices. The exact form of the fast and worship varies by lineage and teacher.
Today
Gupt Navratri remains a practice for a smaller circle of devotees, mostly those initiated into Tantric schools or those who have a guru guiding them. It is not widely known in popular Hindu culture, and many Hindus have never heard of it. Outside India and in diaspora communities, it is even less common. Those who do observe it often keep it quiet, as the tradition values privacy in esoteric practice.