Navratri 2026 Dates — All Four Navratris
| Navratri | Start Date | End Date | Region Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chaitra Navratri | March 30, 2026 | April 7, 2026 | North & West India |
| Ashadha Gupta Navratri | June 28, 2026 | July 6, 2026 | Tantric tradition |
| Shardiya Navratri | October 2, 2026 | October 10, 2026 | Pan-India |
| Paush Gupta Navratri | January 2027 | — | Tantric tradition |
Nine Forms of Goddess Durga (Navdurga) — 2026 Colour Guide
| Day | Goddess | Significance | Colour 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shailputri | Earth energy, new beginnings | Yellow |
| 2 | Brahmacharini | Austerity and wisdom | Green |
| 3 | Chandraghanta | Courage and beauty | Grey |
| 4 | Kushmanda | Cosmic energy and creation | Orange |
| 5 | Skandamata | Motherhood and love | White |
| 6 | Katyayani | Warrior energy and justice | Red |
| 7 | Kalaratri | Destruction of darkness | Royal Blue |
| 8 | Mahagauri | Purity and peace | Pink |
| 9 | Siddhidatri | Ultimate blessing and moksha | Purple |
Navratri Fasting Rules
What to Eat
- Kuttu (buckwheat), sabudana (sago), singhara flour preparations
- Fruits, milk, dry fruits, sendha namak (rock salt)
- Potatoes, sweet potatoes, arbi preparations
What to Avoid
- All grains, regular salt, onion, garlic
- Non-vegetarian food and alcohol
Kanya Puja on Ashtami/Navami — Complete Vidhi
On the 8th (Ashtami) or 9th (Navami) day, invite 9 young girls representing the 9 forms of Goddess Durga. Wash their feet with water, apply alta (red dye) on their feet, offer them puja, feed them a complete meal with puri, chana, halwa, and kheer, and give them dakshina (gift/money) as a mark of respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can men also fast during Navratri?
Yes, absolutely. Navratri fasting is for everyone — men, women, children (if healthy enough), and the elderly.
Can I start a new business during Navratri?
Yes. Navratri is considered one of the most auspicious periods for starting new ventures, particularly on Pratipada (first day) or Dashami (Dussehra, the 10th day).
What is the significance of nine colours of Navratri?
Each of the nine days of Navratri is associated with a specific colour that resonates with that day's goddess energy. Wearing the designated colour is believed to invoke the goddess's specific blessings.
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