Shardiya
Navratri 2026 – Dates, Rituals & Goddess Worship
Shardiya
Navratri is one of the most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to the
worship of Maa Durga and her nine divine forms. Falling in the lunar
month of Ashwin during Sharad Ritu, the festival derives its name
from the season itself. Observed across India with immense devotion, the
nine-day celebration culminates in Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra),
symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Spiritual
Significance
- Nine Forms of
Shakti: Each day honors a different
manifestation of Goddess Durga, representing strength, wisdom, courage,
and compassion.
- Sacred
Practices: Devotees observe fasts, chant
mantras, recite Durga Saptashati, and perform rituals like Kanya
Pujan.
- Victory of
Dharma: The festival concludes with
Dussehra, commemorating Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana.
Shardiya
Navratri 2026 Dates
- Start Date:
11 October 2026 (Ashwin Shukla Pratipada)
- End Date:
19 October 2026 (Navami & Vijayadashami)
- Special Note:
This year, due to a change in lunar sequence, Ashtami and Navami will
both fall on 19 October, making the day especially auspicious.
Ghatasthapana
(Kalash Sthapana)
- Date:
11 October 2026
- Tithi Timing:
Pratipada begins at 9:19 pm on 10 October and ends at 9:30 pm on 11
October.
- Auspicious Muhurat:
Devotees should consult their local Panchang for exact Kalash Sthapana
timings.
Goddess
Worship Schedule
- 11 October
– Maa Shailputri
- 12 October
– Maa Brahmacharini
- 13 October
– Maa Chandraghanta
- 14 October
– Maa Kushmanda
- 15 October
– Maa Skandamata
- 16 October
– Maa Katyayani
- 17 October
– Maa Kaalratri
- 18 October
– Maa Mahagauri
- 19 October
– Maa Siddhidatri (Ashtami & Navami together)
Ashtami
& Navami on 19 October
- Kanya Pujan:
Devotees worship young girls as embodiments of Goddess Durga.
- Sandhi Puja:
Performed at the juncture of Ashtami and Navami, considered highly
powerful.
- Special
Ceremonies: Rituals and offerings hold
heightened significance this year due to the merging of two sacred tithis.