New Delhi: The holy festival of Shardiya Navratri is starting from today, 11 October 2026, Sunday. In this festival which lasts for nine days, nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. The puja begins with the installation of the Kalash on the first day of Navratri. During this time, devotees observe fast and perform special prayers to get the blessings of Goddess Durga. Ashtami, Mahanavami, Havan and Kanya Puja also have special significance during Navratri. Let us know the important information related to Pratipada date of Shardiya Navratri 2026, auspicious time for establishment of Kalash, method of worship and breaking of fast.
When is the Pratipada date of Shardiya Navratri 2026?
According to the Panchang, Pratipada date of Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month has started on 10 October 2026 at 9.19 pm. This date will last till 9:30 pm on October 11. On the basis of Udaya Tithi, Shardiya Navratri is considered to start from Sunday, 11th October. On this day, devotees will start worshiping Goddess Durga by installing the Kalash.
Which time is auspicious for establishing Kalash?
Ghatasthapana i.e. installation of Kalash has special significance on the first day of Shardiya Navratri. According to the available Panchang calculations, the general auspicious time for setting up the Kalash is said to be from 6:19 am to 10:12 am. At the same time, Abhijeet Muhurta will be from 11:44 am to 12:31 pm.
However, there may be a difference in the Muhurta according to different cities and calendars. Therefore, before installing the Kalash, please confirm the time given in your local Panchang.
What is the importance of Chitra Nakshatra and Vaidhriti Yoga?
This year, the situation of Chitra Nakshatra and Vaidhriti Yoga is also in discussion on the first day of Navratri. According to a calculation of the Panchang, Chitra Nakshatra will last from 9.42 pm on October 10 to 10.32 pm on October 11. At the same time, Vaidhriti Yoga is said to be from 10:02 pm on October 10 to 9:05 pm on October 11.
Some religious beliefs recommend taking special care while choosing the Muhurta for Ghatasthapana during these situations. In such a situation, devotees can decide the time of worship by consulting the local almanac or any qualified scholar.
What is the correct worship method for establishing Kalash?
On the first day of Navratri, take bath in the morning, wear clean clothes and clean the place of worship thoroughly. After this, spread a red or yellow cloth on the post and install the idol or picture of Maa Durga. Sow barley in an earthen pot near the place of worship.
After this, fill the Kalash with water and keep worship material like Akshat, betel nut and coin in it. Place mango or Ashoka leaves on the mouth of the Kalash and place a coconut on top. After this, light the lamp and worship Lord Ganesha and Mother Durga. Finally, chant the mantras of Maa Durga and pray for the happiness and prosperity of the family. The method of worship may vary according to family tradition and local religious beliefs.
When will Mahashtami and Mahanavami be worshipped?
Ashtami and Navami Tithis are considered to have special religious significance in Shardiya Navratri. These days devotees do special worship of Goddess Durga. Havan and Kanya Puja are also performed in many families.
As per the calendar available this year, Mahashtami is falling on October 18, Sunday and Mahanavami is falling on October 19, Monday. However, it would be appropriate to decide the time of puja and Kanya Puja as per the local calendar.
When should Navratri fast be broken?
Devotees observing fast during Navratri break their fast on Ashtami or Navami day as per their family tradition. Some people observe Parana after Ashtami puja and Kanya Puja, while in other families the fast is broken after Mahanavami puja and Havan and Kanya Puja.
No single time for breaking the fast is applicable at all places. It depends on the date, local almanac and family tradition. Therefore, before performing Parana, confirm the date and time of Ashtami-Navami in the almanac of your city.
What things should be kept in mind during Navratri?
Maintain cleanliness of the place of worship during the nine days of Navratri and worship Maa Durga as per your devotion. Devotees can recite Durga Saptashati, Durga Chalisa or mantras of Maa Durga. People observing fast should take adequate care of food and water while keeping their health in mind.
