The nine day festival of Navratri in Hindu religion is dedicated to the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga. The most important Navratri in a year is the Sharadiya Navratra which begins on the first day of the bright half of Ashvin or Ashwayuja (September-October) as per traditional Hindu calendar.

Navratri 2026 9 days & the importance

Sharad Navratri 2026: Key Dates

• 11 October (Sunday): Pratipada, Day 1: Ghatasthapana and Maa Shailputri Puja

• 12 October (Monday): Dwitiya, Day 2: Maa Brahmacharini Puja

• 13 October (Tuesday): Tritiya, Day 3: Maa Chandraghanta Puja

• 14 October (Wednesday): Chaturthi, Day 4: Maa Kushmanda Puja

• 15 October (Thursday): Panchami, Day 5: Maa Skandamata Puja

• 16 October (Friday): Shashthi, Day 6: Maa Katyayani Puja

• 17 October (Saturday): Saptami, Day 7: Maa Kalaratri Puja

• 18 October (Sunday): Ashtami, Day 8: Durga Ashtami Puja

• 19 October (Monday): Navami, Day 9: Maha Gauri Puja and Mahanavami

• 20 October (Tuesday): Dashami, Day 10: Vijayadashami (Dussehra) and Parana