One of the biggest festivals in the Hindu calendar began on Sunday.

The nine-day festival will see Hindus across Kent dress in colourful attire, as they rejoice with music and dance.

What is Navratri?

Shardiya Navratri takes place each year, typically in either September or October.

The holiday celebrates the goddess Maa Durga and her triumph over evil in defeating the demon Mahishasura.

According to Hindu mythology, the battle lasted nine days and each day the deity took a different incarnation to confuse Mahishasura until she finally impaled him in the chest.

How is it celebrated?

Each day of Navratri celebrates a different form of Maa Durga and her feminine strength.

During the festival, Hindus will perform pujas [prayers and blessings], fast and perform rituals.

The auspicious period will come to an end on Tuesday, October 24.

What traditions take place?

A major element of the holiday is the music and dance.

Garba, a folk dance originating from the northern state of Gujarat is usually performed by women.

This tribute to womanhood is where they circle around a lantern in the middle to symbolise the cycle of life.

Another popular dance that people participate in is Dandiya.

Men and women whirl to the rhythm of the music as they hit their dandiyas together.

These are wooden sticks which are used to mimic Maa Durga’s sword.

What events will there be across Kent?

Gravesend Hindu Temple in Manor Road will be open daily for Navratri from 5pm to 8pm.

Medway Hindu Mandir in Canterbury Street will also celebrate the festival every day from 5pm to 7pm.

Ramsgate Indian Association will host a “Navratri Garba Nights” celebration in Guildford Lawn on Sunday, October 22.

General admission is free but anyone interested must reserve a spot. You can do so here.

Bromley Temple and Cultural Association will also have a “Navratri Utsav Dandia Night”, with tickets available here.

It will be held on Friday, October 20.