Sharad Navratri · शारदीय नवरात्रि
Sharad Navratri, the autumn nine nights of the Goddess, begins on Ashwin Shukla Pratipada and is the most widely celebrated Navratri. It recalls Durga's battle with Mahishasura, and ends with Dussehra on the tenth day.
Dates
Dates and times are for New Delhi (Asia/Kolkata). They can differ in other places, especially outside India, and between traditions.
How the date is determined
Begins on Ashwin Shukla Pratipada prevailing at sunrise.
A kalash is installed on the first day (ghatasthapana); the nine forms of Durga are worshipped; many fast, read the Durga Saptashati, perform kanya puja on Ashtami or Navami, and dance garba and dandiya in Gujarat.
Regional and tradition differences
In Bengal and eastern India the last days are celebrated as Durga Puja. In the South, Golu dolls are displayed and Saraswati is worshipped on Navami. Navratri can last eight or ten days when a tithi is skipped or repeated.
What to recite
Sources
- Navaratri, Wikipedia (2026)
Change log
- : Published.