Navratri 2026 at a Glance
Sharad Navratri 2026 begins on Sunday, October 11, and the nine-day Navratri observance continues through Monday, October 19. Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, falls on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
The first day begins with Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) and the worship of Maa Shailputri. The nine days are dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, collectively known as Navadurga.
Important Navratri 2026 Dates
| Occasion | Date |
|---|---|
| Sharad Navratri begins | Sunday, October 11, 2026 |
| Ghatasthapana | October 11, 2026 |
| Day 1 | October 11 |
| Day 2 | October 12 |
| Day 3 | October 13 |
| Day 4 | October 14 |
| Day 5 | October 15 |
| Day 6 | October 16 |
| Day 7 | October 17 |
| Day 8 | October 18 |
| Day 9 | October 19 |
| Durga Ashtami | October 19 |
| Maha Navami | October 19 |
| Vijayadashami / Dussehra | October 20 |
The 2026 Hindu calendar places Ghatasthapana on October 11, with Durga Ashtami and Maha Navami observed on October 19 and Vijayadashami on October 20.
Important: Hindu festival timings, tithis and Muhurats can vary slightly by city. The date of Navratri is broadly consistent across India, but exact ritual timings should be checked according to your local Panchang.
What Is Navratri?
The word Navratri means "nine nights." Sharad Navratri is one of the most significant Navratri observances in the Hindu calendar and is dedicated to Shakti, the divine feminine power worshipped through the forms of Goddess Durga.
During these nine days, devotees may perform daily puja, observe vrat or fasting, recite devotional prayers, visit temples and participate in cultural celebrations such as Garba and Dandiya.
Different regions of India observe Navratri in their own distinctive ways. Gujarat and Maharashtra are especially known for Garba and Dandiya, while West Bengal observes the period through the elaborate traditions of Durga Puja. Across homes and temples, however, the central theme remains devotion to Devi and the celebration of the power of Shakti.
Navratri is also associated with the victory of good over evil and the spiritual qualities of courage, devotion, discipline and inner strength.
When Is Navratri 2026?
Sharad Navratri 2026 begins on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
The nine-day observance runs from October 11 to October 19, with each day dedicated to a form of Navadurga.
Vijayadashami or Dussehra will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
The Pratipada tithi begins on October 10 and continues into October 11, which is why October 11 is observed as the first day of Sharad Navratri according to the sunrise-based Hindu calendar.
Navratri 2026 9-Day Calendar
One of the most searched aspects of Navratri is the day-wise calendar of the nine forms of Maa Durga.
Here is the 2026 calendar at a glance.
| Day | Date | Tithi | Goddess | Navratri Colour |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Oct 11, Sunday | Pratipada | Maa Shailputri | Orange |
| Day 2 | Oct 12, Monday | Dwitiya | Maa Brahmacharini | White |
| Day 3 | Oct 13, Tuesday | Tritiya | Maa Chandraghanta | Red |
| Day 4 | Oct 14, Wednesday | Chaturthi | Maa Kushmanda | Royal Blue |
| Day 5 | Oct 15, Thursday | Panchami | Maa Skandamata | Yellow |
| Day 6 | Oct 16, Friday | Shashthi | Maa Katyayani | Green |
| Day 7 | Oct 17, Saturday | Saptami | Maa Kalaratri | Grey |
| Day 8 | Oct 18, Sunday | Ashtami | Maa Mahagauri | Purple |
| Day 9 | Oct 19, Monday | Navami | Maa Siddhidatri | Peacock Green |
| Day 10 | Oct 20, Tuesday | Dashami | Vijayadashami | — |
The day-wise Goddess and colour sequence above follows the 2026 Sharad Navratri calendar.
Day 1: Maa Shailputri | October 11, 2026
Navratri begins with the worship of Maa Shailputri, the first form of Navadurga.
The name Shailputri means "daughter of the mountain." She is traditionally associated with strength, stability and the beginning of the spiritual journey.
The first day is also associated with Ghatasthapana, the ceremonial establishment of the sacred Kalash.
Day 1 Colour
Orange
Main Ritual
Ghatasthapana and Maa Shailputri Puja
Day 2: Maa Brahmacharini | October 12, 2026
The second day is dedicated to Maa Brahmacharini.
She represents devotion, austerity, patience and spiritual discipline.
Devotees often use this day to focus on prayer, meditation and maintaining their Sankalp for the Navratri period.
Day 2 Colour
White
Day 3: Maa Chandraghanta | October 13, 2026
The third form is Maa Chandraghanta.
She is traditionally depicted with a crescent moon on her forehead and is associated with courage, peace and protection.
Day 3 Colour
Red
Day 4: Maa Kushmanda | October 14, 2026
The fourth day is dedicated to Maa Kushmanda.
She is traditionally associated with creative energy, vitality and the cosmic power of Shakti.
Day 4 Colour
Royal Blue
Day 5: Maa Skandamata | October 15, 2026
The fifth day honours Maa Skandamata, traditionally depicted with her son Kartikeya or Skanda.
She represents motherhood, compassion and divine protection.
Day 5 Colour
Yellow
Day 6: Maa Katyayani | October 16, 2026
The sixth day is dedicated to Maa Katyayani, a powerful form of Devi associated with courage and protection.
In the 2026 calendar, Saraswati Avahan is also observed on this day.
Day 6 Colour
Green
Day 7: Maa Kalaratri | October 17, 2026
The seventh day is dedicated to Maa Kalaratri.
Although her appearance is traditionally fierce, she represents the protective and transformative power of Devi.
Day 7 Colour
Grey
Day 8: Maa Mahagauri | October 18, 2026
The eighth day honours Maa Mahagauri.
She is associated with purity, serenity and spiritual illumination.
Day 8 Colour
Purple
Day 9: Maa Siddhidatri | October 19, 2026
The ninth and final day of Navratri is associated with Maa Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Navadurga.
She represents spiritual accomplishment and divine grace.
Day 9 Colour
Peacock Green
In 2026, Durga Ashtami and Maha Navami are observed on October 19, although the exact tithi transitions occur at specific times and regional observances can differ.
What Is Ghatasthapana?
Ghatasthapana, also known as Kalash Sthapana, marks the ceremonial beginning of Navratri worship.
A sacred Kalash is established in the puja space, traditionally accompanied by elements such as soil, grains, water, leaves and a coconut.
For many households, this becomes the spiritual centre of the Navratri puja setup.
The ritual represents the invocation of divine energy and the beginning of the nine-day worship of Devi.
Ghatasthapana 2026: Date & Muhurat
Ghatasthapana 2026 will be performed on Sunday, October 11.
Because Muhurat is calculated according to the location, the exact timing varies between cities.
Ghatasthapana Samagri: What Do You Need?
A traditional Ghatasthapana setup may include:
- Kalash
- Clean water
- Coconut
- Mango or other prescribed leaves
- Sacred thread / Mauli
- Rice or Akshata
- Kumkum
- Turmeric
- Flowers
- Fruits
- Coins
- Betel nut
- Soil
- Barley or other grains used according to regional practice
- Diya
- Ghee or oil
- Incense
- Puja thali
- Other items prescribed by your family tradition
The exact list can vary by regional tradition and family practice.
Prepare Your Navratri Puja Space
For a traditional home setup, keep the puja area clean and organized before beginning Ghatasthapana.
A simple arrangement can include:
Kalash → Maa Durga idol/image → Akhand Jyoti → Puja Thali → Flowers and Naivedya
For devotees preparing their home mandir for Navratri, SwaDharma's festive collection includes Kalash, Maa Durga brass idols, Akhand Jyoti, Puja Thali and other devotional essentials.
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How to Perform Navratri Puja at Home
Navratri puja practices differ across regions and families, but a simple home routine can include the following.
Step 1: Clean the Puja Space
Clean the home temple or designated puja area before beginning the ritual.
Step 2: Prepare the Puja Platform
Place a clean cloth or traditional puja platform in the chosen area.
Step 3: Perform Ghatasthapana
Establish the Kalash according to your family tradition and the guidance of your local Panchang or priest.
Step 4: Place Maa Durga
Place the Maa Durga idol or image respectfully in the puja area.
Step 5: Light the Diya
Light the diya as part of your daily devotional practice.
For households following the Akhand Jyoti tradition, the flame may be maintained continuously for the prescribed period with appropriate care and fire safety.
Step 6: Offer Puja
Offer flowers, kumkum, akshata, incense, fruits and other offerings according to your tradition.
Step 7: Recite Prayers
Devotees may recite Durga prayers, Durga Chalisa, Devi mantras or other prayers followed in their family tradition.
Step 8: Offer Naivedya
Offer suitable bhog or prasad.
Step 9: Perform Aarti
Conclude the puja with Devi Aarti.
What Should You Keep in a Navratri Puja Setup?
A thoughtfully arranged Navratri puja space does not need to be complicated.
A traditional setup may include:
1. Maa Durga Idol or Image
The central devotional focus of the puja space.
2. Kalash
Used for Ghatasthapana and other traditional rituals.
3. Akhand Jyoti
A traditional lamp used by devotees who follow the practice of maintaining a continuous sacred flame.
4. Puja Thali
Useful for arranging flowers, kumkum, akshata, diya and other puja items.
5. Flowers
Fresh flowers can be offered according to family and regional tradition.
6. Incense and Fragrance
Used as part of many traditional puja practices.
7. Naivedya
Offerings prepared according to the family's tradition and dietary observance.
Navratri Vrat: What Do Devotees Follow?
Fasting practices during Navratri vary considerably across India and between families.
Some devotees observe a complete fast, while others eat selected fasting foods once or more during the day.
Commonly used fasting foods in many traditions include:
- Sabudana
- Sama rice
- Kuttu
- Singhara
- Makhana
- Fruits
- Milk and dairy products
- Certain nuts
However, Navratri fasting rules are not identical everywhere.
If you are fasting for health, religious or medical reasons, follow the guidance appropriate to your circumstances and family tradition.
Why Are Navratri Colours Important?
The tradition of wearing a specific colour on each Navratri day is particularly popular in parts of western India, including Maharashtra and Gujarat.
The colours provide a simple way for devotees and communities to participate in the festive rhythm of the nine days.
Navratri 2026 Colours
October 11: Orange
October 12: White
October 13: Red
October 14: Royal Blue
October 15: Yellow
October 16: Green
October 17: Grey
October 18: Purple
October 19: Peacock Green
The 2026 sequence is based on the weekday-based Navratri colour tradition.
Durga Ashtami 2026
Durga Ashtami will be observed on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Ashtami is one of the most significant days of Navratri and is associated with the worship of Maa Mahagauri.
Depending on regional practice, devotees may perform special puja, Havan, Kanya Puja or other observances.
Because tithi timings differ by location, families should follow their local Panchang for the exact timing of specific rituals.
Maha Navami 2026
Maha Navami will also be observed on October 19, 2026, in the 2026 calendar followed by many Indian Panchangs.
Maha Navami marks the culmination of the nine-day worship period and is associated with Maa Siddhidatri.
Special pujas, Havan, Kanya Puja and other regional traditions may be performed.
Dussehra 2026: When Is Vijayadashami?
Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
It marks the tenth day following the nine-day Navratri observance and is widely associated with the victory of good over evil.
Different regions commemorate the day through different traditions, including the worship of weapons or tools, Durga Visarjan, Ramlila and other Vijayadashami celebrations.
Navratri Puja Samagri Checklist
Before Navratri begins, use this simple checklist to prepare your home:
Essential Puja Items
☐ Kalash
☐ Coconut
☐ Sacred thread / Mauli
☐ Rice / Akshata
☐ Kumkum
☐ Turmeric
☐ Flowers
☐ Diya
☐ Ghee or oil
☐ Cotton wicks
☐ Incense
☐ Camphor
☐ Fruits
☐ Naivedya / Prasad
☐ Puja Thali
☐ Maa Durga idol or image
☐ Items required for Ghatasthapana according to your family tradition
Prepare Your Puja Essentials
SwaDharma's festive collection brings together devotional products for Navratri and the wider festive season, including Maa Durga idols, Kalash, Akhand Jyoti, Puja Thalis and other traditional puja essentials.
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Navratri Puja Products for Your Home
If you are preparing your home temple for Navratri, you can consider choosing essentials according to your ritual requirements rather than buying everything at once.
Maa Durga Idol
A traditional Maa Durga idol can become the devotional centre of your Navratri puja space.
Explore Maa Durga Idols
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Kalash
A Kalash is an important element of Ghatasthapana and several other Hindu rituals.
Explore Kalash
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Akhand Jyoti
For families who follow the tradition of maintaining an Akhand Jyoti, a suitable traditional lamp can be part of the Navratri puja arrangement.
Explore Akhand Jyoti
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Puja Thali
A dedicated Puja Thali makes it easier to keep essential offerings and puja items organized.
Explore Puja Thalis
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Navratri 2026: Frequently Asked Questions
When does Navratri 2026 start?
Sharad Navratri 2026 begins on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
When does Navratri 2026 end?
The nine-day Navratri observance ends on October 19, 2026, with Vijayadashami/Dussehra on October 20, 2026.
When is Ghatasthapana in 2026?
Ghatasthapana is on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
What is the Ghatasthapana Muhurat in Mumbai in 2026?
For Mumbai, the listed Ghatasthapana Muhurat is 6:31 AM to 10:27 AM on October 11, 2026. Exact timings vary by location.
What are the Navratri colours for 2026?
The nine colours are:
Orange, White, Red, Royal Blue, Yellow, Green, Grey, Purple and Peacock Green.
How many days is Navratri?
Sharad Navratri is observed for nine nights and nine days, followed by Vijayadashami on the tenth day.
Which Goddess is worshipped on Day 1 of Navratri?
Maa Shailputri is worshipped on the first day.
Which Goddess is worshipped on Day 9?
Maa Siddhidatri is traditionally worshipped on the ninth day.
When is Durga Ashtami in 2026?
Durga Ashtami is observed on October 19, 2026 in the 2026 calendar referenced above.
When is Maha Navami in 2026?
Maha Navami is observed on October 19, 2026.
When is Dussehra in 2026?
Vijayadashami/Dussehra is on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
What is Ghatasthapana?
Ghatasthapana, also called Kalash Sthapana, is the traditional ritual that marks the beginning of Navratri worship through the establishment of a sacred Kalash.
Can Navratri puja be performed at home?
Yes. Many families perform Navratri puja at home according to their family tradition, regional customs and local Panchang.
What should I buy for Navratri puja?
Common essentials include a Kalash, coconut, puja thali, diya, flowers, incense, kumkum, turmeric, rice, offerings and a Maa Durga idol or image. The exact requirements depend on the ritual being performed and the family's tradition.
Navratri 2026: The Complete Quick Reference
If you only need the essential information, save this section:
Navratri begins: October 11, 2026
Ghatasthapana: October 11, 2026
Navratri ends: October 19, 2026
Durga Ashtami: October 19, 2026
Maha Navami: October 19, 2026
Dussehra: October 20, 2026
Day 1 Goddess: Maa Shailputri
Day 9 Goddess: Maa Siddhidatri
Number of Navratri days: 9
Ghatasthapana: Also known as Kalash Sthapana
Main deity: Maa Durga / Navadurga
Begin Navratri With Devotion
Navratri is more than a nine-day festival. For millions of devotees, it is a period of prayer, discipline, celebration and renewed connection with Shakti.
Whether your Navratri is centred around a simple home puja, a beautifully decorated mandir, Garba and Dandiya, temple visits, fasting or daily devotional practice, the heart of the celebration remains the same: faith, devotion and the remembrance of the Divine Mother.
Prepare your home, organise your puja essentials and begin the nine nights of Navratri with intention.
Explore SwaDharma's Festive Collection
Traditional Puja Essentials • Maa Durga Idols • Kalash • Diyas • Akhand Jyoti • Puja Thalis & More
https://swadharma.online/collections/festive-2026
Shubh Navratri 2026.
Jai Mata Di. 🙏
