Did you know this year Navratri is a 10 day festival? Yes, that is correct . The festival started on October 1st and the last day of Navami will be celebrated on October 10th. The last time this happened was 16 years ago in the year 2000. Usually, Navratri is celebrated for 9 days and nights and the 10th day is celebrated as Dussera or Vijayadashami.

According to astrologers, these changes in dates are due to increment and decrement of Tithis. This year Pitra Paksha (Shraadh Tithi) ended in 15 days, instead of 16 days. That is because Panchami and Shasthi Tithi were on the same day. During the Navratri festival this year, Pratipada tithi was celebrated continuously for first and second day. Dwitiya on third day and likewise Navami will be on the 10th day. On the 11th day, Dusshera (Vijayadashmi) festival will be celebrated.

After Shraadh or Pitra Paksha ended , the piousness of Shardiya Navaratra is in full flow.  This one day extension of festivities is great news for devotees. Now you have one more day to rejoice with Goddess Durga during this auspicious festival.