Sharad Navratri 2026 will begin on Sunday, October 11, and conclude on Tuesday, October 20, with Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra. The nine-night Hindu festival is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms, with devotees observing prayers, fasting and traditional rituals throughout the period. The festival begins with Ghatasthapana, also known as Kalash Sthapana, a ritual that marks the start of Navratri. Each day is associated with a different form of Goddess Durga, and many devotees follow the tradition of wearing a specific colour for each day. Sharad Navratri begins on October 11, 2026, with Ghatasthapana and the worship of Goddess Shailputri. The festival culminates in Vijayadashami on October 20, when devotees celebrate the victory of good over evil.
The exact timings for rituals such as Ghatasthapana depend on the location and local Panchang. Devotees should check the auspicious timings for their city before performing the ceremony. In Mumbai, for instance, the Ghatasthapana muhurat is listed as 6:31 am to 10:27 am on October 11.
