Shardiya Navratri 2026: Is It On October 11 or 12? Muhurat, Nine Goddesses and Complete Day-Wise Calendar

Shardiya Navratri is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. In this festival, we celebrate the nine forms of Goddess Durga during the month of Ashwin. This nine day festival brings people together in devotion, fasting, prayers or Garba, all across India.

In 2026, Shariya Navratri will begin on 11th October Sunday and continue till Maha Navami on 19th October 2026 Monday. Vijaydashmi, also known as Dusherra, will be celebrated on  20th October 2026. 

Shardiya Navratri 2026: Is It On October 11 or 12? 

Shardiya Navratri begins on 11th October 2026 with Ghatasthapana, also called Kalash Sthapana, a ritual that marks the beginning of the festival. During the festival, the devotees worship one form of Goddess Durga each day and seek blessings for prosperity, health and happiness. The festival ends at Vijaydashmi, which symbolises the victory of good over evil. The timings of certain rituals have been decided according to regional traditions and panchang calculations. 

Why Is Ghatasthapana Performed During Navratri? 

Ghatasthapana is the most important ritual performed on the day 1 of Navratri. A sacred spot is installed in the house to call the divine presence of Goddess Durga in homes. 

• Date: 11th October 2026
• Ghatasthapana Muhurat: 06:19 AM to 10:12 AM
• Abhijit Muhurat: 11:44 AM to 12:31 PM

(Note: Devotees are advised to check their local Panchang before performing the ritual.)

ALSO READ- Mahalaya 2026: Auspicious Muhurat, Deep Spiritual Significance And Pujo Festive Schedule

Shardiya Navratri 2026 Day-Wise Calendar: Nine Goddesses And Dates 

Vijayadashmi falls on 20th October 2026, and on this day we celebrate Dussehra.

What Is The Significance of Shardiya Navratri?

 Shardiya Navratri celebrates feminine power, or Shakti, and the victory of good over evil. According to Hindu traditions, Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura, which represents the destruction of negative forces. The nine goddesses represent different qualities such as courage, compassion, rightfulness, and wisdom. 

How Is Shardiya Navratri Celebrated?

Devotees clean their homes, perform puja, light lamps and chant Durga aartis. Many people observe fasts, and follow a sattvic diet throughout the festival. In Gujarat, Garba and Dandiya Raas bring communities together through music and dance. In West Bengal, Durga Puja is celebrated with elaborate pandals and cultural programmes. On Ashtami or Navami, many families perform Kanya Pujan, honouring young girls as manifestations of the Goddess.

Conclusion

Shardiya Navratri 2026 is a sacred nine-day period to honour Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms through prayer, fasting, and joyous celebrations. By observing Ghatasthapana on October 11 and participating in daily festivities through Vijayadashami on October 20, devotees seek spiritual renewal, inner strength, and divine blessings.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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