Sharad Navratri, a significant Hindu festival, is set to commence on Sunday, October 11, 2026, marking nine days of devotion, fasting, and vibrant celebrations dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The festivities will conclude with Vijayadashami, widely known as Dussehra, on Tuesday, October 20.
Observed across India with distinct regional variations, Navratri unites devotees through rituals, temple visits, devotional music, and cultural events. While Gujarat is renowned for its energetic Garba and Dandiya nights, parts of northern India commemorate the occasion with Durga Puja, Ramleela performances, and the symbolic burning of Ravana effigies.
Navratri 2026: Important Dates and Observances
According to the Delhi-specific calendar published by Drik Panchang, here are the key dates for Sharad Navratri 2026:
- October 11, Sunday: Ghatasthapana and Shailputri Puja
- October 12, Monday: Brahmacharini Puja
- October 13, Tuesday: Chandraghanta Puja
- October 14, Wednesday: Kushmanda Puja
- October 15, Thursday: Skandamata Puja
- October 16, Friday: Katyayani Puja
- October 17, Saturday: Kalaratri Puja
- October 18, Sunday: Durga Ashtami and Mahagauri Puja
- October 19, Monday: Maha Navami and Siddhidatri Puja
- October 20, Tuesday: Vijayadashami or Dussehra
Note: Panchang observances and specific tithi-based rituals may vary based on local traditions and geographical location. Devotees are advised to consult local calendars.
Ghatasthapana: Beginning the Sacred Journey
Ghatasthapana, also known as Kalash Sthapana, initiates the Navratri worship. Devotees traditionally establish a sacred pot at home or in a place of worship, beginning the series of rituals dedicated to Goddess Durga. The auspicious time (muhurat) for Ghatasthapana is determined by the local Panchang, sunrise timings, and prevailing tithi.
Durga Ashtami: Honoring Mahagauri
Durga Ashtami will be observed on Sunday, October 18. This day is considered one of the most significant during Navratri, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Mahagauri, the eighth manifestation of Durga. Many families conduct special pujas, offer bhog (food offerings), and perform Kanya Pujan, where young girls are revered as manifestations of the divine feminine.
Maha Navami: Worshipping Siddhidatri
Maha Navami falls on Monday, October 19. On this day, devotees worship Goddess Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Durga, seeking her blessings for prosperity, wisdom, and fulfillment. Depending on family customs and local religious practices, Kanya Pujan and Navami Homa (fire rituals) are often performed on either Ashtami or Navami.
Dussehra (Vijayadashami): The Triumph of Good
Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, on Tuesday, October 20, marks the culmination of Navratri. This festival profoundly symbolizes the victory of good over evil, famously associated with Lord Rama's triumph over the demon king Ravana. In eastern India, Vijayadashami also signifies the grand conclusion of the Durga Puja celebrations.
Public celebrations often include elaborate Ramleela performances, the burning of large Ravana effigies, vibrant processions, and the ceremonial immersion of Durga idols.