Navratri 2026: Dates, the Nine Goddesses & the Meaning of Each Day

Navratri 2026 Dates

Sharad Navratri 2026 begins on Sunday, 11 October 2026 with Ghatasthapana, and concludes with Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on Tuesday, 20 October 2026. In 2026, Durga Ashtami and Maha Navami fall close together, with both observed on 19 October in many panchangs because of the way the tithis overlap.

Ghatasthapana muhurat varies by city, so check a trusted local panchang for the exact timing.

Why Navratri Is Celebrated

The best-known story is of Maa Durga's battle with Mahishasura, the buffalo demon who could not be defeated by any god. The combined energies of the Trimurti and the devas created Durga, who fought him for nine days and triumphed on the tenth. Navratri celebrates this victory of divine energy over ignorance and ego.

Traditionally, the nine days are also seen in three sets of three: the first three honour Durga, who removes negativity; the next three honour Lakshmi, who brings abundance; and the final three honour Saraswati, who grants wisdom.

The Nine Goddesses of Navratri (Navdurga)

Day 1 – Maa Shailputri

The daughter of the mountains, Shailputri represents strength and rootedness. Worshipping her on the first day is believed to establish a steady foundation for the rest of the festival.

Day 2 – Maa Brahmacharini

The ascetic form of Parvati, she represents discipline, devotion and patience. This is a lovely day to set a personal intention for Navratri.

Day 3 – Maa Chandraghanta

Adorned with a half-moon shaped like a bell, Chandraghanta symbolises courage and grace. She is believed to dispel fear.

Day 4 – Maa Kushmanda

Kushmanda is revered as the creator of the universe, who brought light to cosmic darkness with her smile. She is associated with vitality and warmth.

Day 5 – Maa Skandamata

The mother of Kartikeya (Skanda), she embodies maternal love and protection. Many devotees pray to her for the wellbeing of their children.

Day 6 – Maa Katyayani

A fierce warrior form, Katyayani is traditionally worshipped by young women seeking a good life partner.

Day 7 – Maa Kaalratri

The fiercest form of Durga, Kaalratri destroys darkness and fear. Though fearsome in appearance, she is also known as Shubhankari, the one who brings auspiciousness.

Day 8 – Maa Mahagauri (Ashtami)

Mahagauri radiates purity and calm. Kanya pujan, the worship of young girls as forms of the Goddess, is performed on Ashtami in many homes.

Day 9 – Maa Siddhidatri (Navami)

The giver of siddhis (accomplishments), Siddhidatri completes the cycle. Devotees pray to her for fulfilment and inner wisdom.

How to Celebrate Navratri at Home

• Cleanse your home and puja space before Ghatasthapana. Many families mop with salt water as a traditional Vastu practice to refresh the energy of the space.
• Set up the kalash in the northeast (Ishan) corner, which Vastu considers the most sacred direction.
• Light an akhand jyoti if your family tradition includes it, and keep it safely tended.
• Offer the Goddess a simple bhog each day, such as fruits, kheer, halwa or jaggery.
• Read the Durga Saptashati or chant the Navarna mantra, even for a few minutes daily.
• Keep your fasting practice realistic for your health. Tradition values devotion more than hardship.

Navratri as a Time for New Beginnings

After the reflective days of Pitru Paksha, Navratri opens a highly auspicious window. It is traditionally considered a good time to begin new ventures, bring home new items for the home and set intentions for the months ahead. Our guide to Vastu for Ghatasthapana explains how to prepare your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Navratri 2026 start?

Sharad Navratri 2026 starts on Sunday, 11 October 2026, and Dussehra falls on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

Which goddess is worshipped on each day of Navratri?

Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kaalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri, in that order.

Why are Ashtami and Navami on the same day in 2026?

Lunar tithis do not align neatly with calendar days. In 2026 the Ashtami and Navami tithis overlap, so many panchangs list both on 19 October. Follow your local panchang for puja timings.

In which direction should the Navratri kalash be placed?

Vastu recommends the northeast (Ishan kon), the direction associated with divine energy.

Can I start something new during Navratri?

Yes. Navratri is traditionally considered one of the most auspicious periods of the year for new beginnings.