Sharad Navratri 2026 begins with Ghatasthapana on Sunday, October 11 and runs nine nights to Maha Navami on Monday, October 19, with Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on Tuesday, October 20. The nine nights honour the nine forms of Goddess Durga — one form, one night, one battle won.
Navratri 2026: Key Dates
- Ghatasthapana / Day 1 (Shailputri): Sunday, October 11, 2026
- Durga Ashtami: Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Maha Navami: Monday, October 19, 2026
- Vijayadashami / Dussehra: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Kanya Pujan: observed on Ashtami or Navami by family tradition
Significance
Navratri marks the Devi's nine-night battle with Mahishasura and her victory on the tenth day. Each night is dedicated to one of the Nav Durga forms — from Shailputri, daughter of the mountain, to Siddhidatri, giver of attainments. It is the year's most concentrated window of Shakti worship, and a classical time for new beginnings.
What Devotees Do
- Ghatasthapana: the kalash is installed on Day 1 with barley sown around it
- Akhand jyoti: an unbroken lamp kept burning through the nine nights in many homes
- Fasting: full or phalahar fasts, with satvik food and no onion-garlic
- Daily Devi puja with the day's form, colour and mantra — see the Nav Durga day-by-day chart
- Kanya pujan on Ashtami or Navami — nine young girls honoured as the Devi
What to Wear Through the Nine Nights
Devi worship pairs naturally with protection and shakti pieces: the 9 Mukhi rudraksha is traditionally ruled by Durga herself, and devotees often begin protection wear in this window. Browse the 1–14 Mukhi Rudraksha collection and the Protection & Negativity collection — certified and energised before dispatch.
FAQ
When is Navratri in October 2026? October 11 to October 19, with Dussehra on October 20.
Can I fast partially? Yes — single-meal and phalahar fasts are widely observed; adapt to your health.
Is Navratri a good time to begin wearing a rudraksha or bracelet? Tradition treats the nine nights, and Vijayadashami especially, as among the year's best windows for new beginnings.
Dates follow published panchang data; tithi and muhurat timings vary by city — confirm on a trusted panchang.
