Shardiya Navratri has officially begun today, Sunday, October 11, 2026, marking the start of nine sacred days dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms (Navadurga).
The festival will span across the autumn season, culminating with Maha Navami on October 19, followed by Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on October 20.
During Navratri, devotees worship nine distinct forms of Goddess Durga—known collectively as the Navadurga. Each day of the festival is dedicated to honoring one form, representing specific spiritual qualities, virtues, and divine powers:
|
Day |
Goddess Form |
Significance & Representation |
Associated Colour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Day 1 |
Maa Shailaputri |
Daughter of the Mountain. Symbolizes strength, purity, and firm resolve. Rides a bull holding a trident and a lotus. |
Orange |
|
Day 2 |
Maa Brahmacharini |
The Ascetic Form. Symbolizes penance, knowledge, discipline, and devotion. Holds a rosary and kamandalu. |
White |
|
Day 3 |
Maa Chandraghanta |
The Goddess with the Bell-Shaped Moon. Symbolizes bravery, peace, and readiness to protect from evil. Rides a tiger. |
Red |
|
Day 4 |
Maa Kushmanda |
The Creator of the Universe. Represents vitality, light, and cosmic energy. Rides a lioness and possesses eight arms. |
Royal Blue |
|
Day 5 |
Maa Skandamata |
Mother of Skanda (Lord Kartikeya). Embodies maternal affection, protection, and divine grace. Seated on a lion carrying Lord Kartikeya. |
Yellow |
|
Day 6 |
Maa Katyayani |
The Warrior Goddess. Created to destroy Mahishasura; represents courage, valor, and righteousness. |
Green |
|
Day 7 |
Maa Kalaratri |
The Destroyer of Darkness. The fiercest form that dispels ignorance, fear, and evil energies. Rides a donkey. |
Grey |
|
Day 8 |
Maa Mahagauri |
The Goddess of Peace and Purity. Symbolizes tranquility, inner beauty, forgiveness, and purification. Rides a bull. |
Purple |
|
Day 9 |
Maa Siddhidatri |
Giver of Siddhis (Spiritual Powers). Grants wisdom, perfection, and spiritual fulfillment. Seated on a lotus or lion. |
Peacock Green |
Ghatasthapana 2026: Auspicious Timings & Direction
The first day of Navratri begins with Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) and the sowing of barley seeds.
- Ghatasthapana Muhurat: 6:31 AM to 10:27 AM
- Abhijit Muhurat: 12:01 PM to 12:50 PM
- Auspicious Direction: The north-east direction (Ishan Kon)—regarded as the abode of the gods—is considered ideal for establishing the Kalash.
Significance of Durga Saptashati & Worship
Devotees observe fasts, offer daily prayers, and recite the Durga Saptashati throughout the nine days. According to tradition, reciting this sacred scripture shields devotees from fear, obstacles, and negative energies while inviting happiness, protection, and prosperity into the home.
Shardiya Navratri 2026 Wishes & Messages
Share these warm greetings and blessings with your friends and family as you celebrate the festival:
- May Goddess Durga give you the strength and courage to overcome every difficult situation. Happy Navratri!
- Let go of your worries and welcome happiness into your life. May Goddess Durga bless you. Happy Navratri 2026!
- May Maa Durga bless you and your family with prosperity, peace, and happiness this Navratri.
- Let the lamp’s light illuminate your life, and may Maa Durga’s blessings keep you strong. Wishing you a blissful Navratri!
- May Goddess Durga guide, protect you, and bring you all the happiness you wish for. Happy Shardiya Navratri 2026!
