When Is Shardiya Navratri 2024: Know The Dates, Time, Rituals, Ghatasthapana Muhurat, Ashtami, Navami, And More

The nine-day Shardiya Navratri, also known as Shrad Navratri, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her various forms. In 2024, Shardiya Navratri will begin in late September and stretch into early October, a period when devotees across India come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Shardiya Navratri takes place in the Hindu month of Ashwin, which typically falls between September and October on the Hindu calendar. This festival is not only marked by fasting, rituals, and prayers but also by vibrant cultural performances and traditional festivities.

Shardiya Navratri 2024 Date

In 2024, Shardiya Navratri will commence on, October 3, 2024, Thursday, and conclude on October 12, 2024, Saturday. 

These nine days are considered highly auspicious, with each day dedicated to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, also known as Navadurga. This period is marked by special prayers, fasting, and celebrations in homes and temples throughout India.

Ghatasthapana Muhurat 2024

The festival starts with Ghatasthapana, a ritual that marks the beginning of Navratri. This ritual marks the installation of a kalash (holy pot), symbolising the presence of the goddess in one’s home. This year in 2024, the Ghatasthapana Muhurat will take place on October 3, 2024, from 6:15 am to 7:22 am, and the Ghatasthapana Abhijit Muhurat is from 11:46 am to 12:33 pm, according to the Drik Panchang. Ghatasthapana must be performed at an auspicious time to ensure good luck.

Ashtami 2024

The eighth day of Shardiya Navratri, known as Ashtami or Maha Ashtami, is one of the most important days of the festival. In 2024, Ashtami will be observed on October 11. It falls on the Ashtami Tithi of the Ashwin month according to the Hindu calendar. The Ashtami Tithi of Ashwin Shukla Paksha begins at 12:31 pm on October 10, 2024, and ends at 12:06 pm on October 11, 2024.

Maha Navami 2024

This year Mahanavami is on October 12, 2024. As per the Hindu calendar, the Navami Tithi of Ashwin Shukla Paksha begins at 12:06 pm on October 11, 2024, and concludes at 10:58 am on October 12, 2024.

Don't miss: National And International Events In October 2024 Full List With Important Days and Dates

Rituals And Traditions During Navratri 2024

The rituals of Shardiya Navratri revolve around the worship of Goddess Durga through daily prayers, fasting, and performing Aarti. Devotees also observe fasting throughout the nine days or on the first two or last two days. Some important rituals include:

k

• Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana): Starting Navratri by placing a holy pot filled with water, and invoking the goddess’s blessings.
• Daily Durga Puja: Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the goddess each day, accompanied by chanting of Durga Saptashati and puja ceremonies. 
• Fasting: People observe fasting during Navratri either for all nine days or on the first two or last two days, depending on their choice.
• Kanya Puja: On Ashtami or Navami, young girls (usually nine) are worshipped, representing the nine forms of Durga.
• Dandiya and Garba: Especially in Gujarat and other regions, traditional dance forms like Dandiya and Garba are performed with devotion and joy during Navratri nights.

Don't miss: Hindu Calendar September 2024: Tithis, Shubh Muhurat, Festivals, And Holidays

Nine Forms of Goddess Durga To Be Worshiped During Navratri 2024

• Maa Shailaputri 
• Maa Brahmacharini 
• Maa Chandraghanta 
• Maa Kushmanda 
• Maa Skandamata 
• Maa Katyayani 
• Maa Kalaratri 
• Maa Mahagauri 
• Maa Siddhidatri

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi.  

Image credit: Freepik