[Photograph of attendees performing a prayer ritual at the Navratri celebration organised by the Gujarati Hindu Seniors Society]

Photograph of a group of unidentified individuals performing a prayer ritual known as "aarti", at the Navratri celebration organised by the Gujarati Hindu Seniors Society of British Columbia (GHSS) in Burnaby, British Columbia (B.C.).

Navratri, in Hinduism, is a major festival held in honour of the divine feminine, goddess Durga. Navratri occurs over 9 days during the month of Ashvin (in the Gregorian calendar, usually September-October). The festival is celebrated differently in India's various regions. For many people it is a time of religious reflection and fasting, while for others it is a time for dancing and feasting. Dances performed include garba, especially in Gujarat. Garba is a type of Indian dance commonly performed at festivals and on other special occasions in the state of Gujarat. In addition to family observances, the puja, or ritual, days are also celebrated with public concerts, recitations, plays, and fairs.

The Gujarati Hindu Seniors Society of British Columbia (GHSS) is a registered charitable organization established in 1994 by a group of Gujarati pioneers who immigrated from various parts of the world and settled in Canada. The society was founded to create a space where Gujarati-speaking Hindu seniors could connect, share their language, faith, and cultural heritage, and build a strong community. It offers cultural events like Navratri and Diwali celebrations, health and wellness seminars, and support services, including funeral assistance and emotional support groups. GHSS also maintains a library and a business directory to help seniors access local services.