Shardiya Navratri 2026: Dates, 9 Colors, Puja Muhurat & Vidhi

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Shardiya Navratri 2026: Dates, 9 Colors, Puja Muhurat &…

Shardiya Navratri 2026 Ghatasthapana and Durga Puja Kalash Setup

Shardiya Navratri 2026

The Divine Mother is Coming Home. Are You Ready?

The rhythmic beats of the Dhak, the fragrance of Dhuno, and the vibrant colors of Chaniya Cholis—Shardiya Navratri 2026 is not just a festival; it’s an emotion. It is that time of the year when the universe aligns to bless us with Shakti (Strength), Bhakti (Devotion), and Mukti (Liberation).

Whether you are fasting for 9 days, playing Garba, or performing the sacred Ghatasthapana, every moment counts. Let’s prepare to welcome Maa Durga with perfect Vedic Vidhi.


📅 Navratri 2026 Dates & Muhurat

Shardiya Navratri 2026 will commence on Monday, October 12, 2026, and conclude with Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

Ghatasthapana Muhurat 2026

  • Date: October 12, 2026 (Monday)
  • Muhurat Time: 06:20 AM to 10:15 AM (approx)
  • Abhijit Muhurat: 11:44 AM to 12:30 PM

*Note: Muhurat timings may vary slightly based on your city. Please consult a local Panchang or SmartPuja astrologer.

🕉️ Navratri 2026: 9 Avatars & Their Blessings

Each day is dedicated to a specific form of Navadurga. Worshiping them grants specific boons.

🎨 9 Colors of Navratri 2026

Wearing the specific color of the day is believed to bring good fortune. For 2026, the sequence follows the days of the week starting from Monday:

Significance: Victory of Good Over Evil

Mythological Story of Goddess Durga and Mahishasura

The legend of Navratri revolves around the battle between Goddess Durga and the buffalo demon, Mahishasura. Empowered by Lord Brahma’s boon that no man or god could kill him, Mahishasura terrorized the universe. The Holy Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva) combined their energies to create Goddess Durga.

After a fierce 9-day battle, the Goddess defeated the demon on the 10th day, celebrated as Vijayadashami. This festival reminds us that no matter how powerful evil may seem, truth and righteousness (Dharma) will always triumph.

Navratri Puja Vidhi: Step-by-Step Guide

Performing the Puja at home brings positive energy and removes obstacles. Here is a simplified Vidhi:

1. Ghatasthapana (Day 1)

Install a Kalash (copper/earthen pot) filled with water, coins, and supari. Place mango leaves at the mouth and a coconut wrapped in red cloth on top. Place this on a bed of soil where you have sown Barley (Jowar) seeds.

2. Invocation & Worship

Light a clay lamp (Akhand Diya is preferred) and incense. Chant “Om Dum Durgaye Namaha”. Offer red hibiscus flowers, kumkum, and sweets to the idol.

3. Durga Saptashati Path

Reciting the Durga Saptashati (Devi Mahatmyam) is the most powerful ritual. If you cannot read the entire text, chanting the Siddha Kunjika Stotram is highly beneficial.

4. Kanya Pujan (Day 8 or 9)

On Ashtami or Navami, invite 9 young girls (representing the 9 forms of the Goddess). Wash their feet, offer them Halwa-Puri and gifts.

🍎 SmartPuja’s Mini Fasting Guide

Fasting (Vrat) creates a detox for the body and mind, allowing you to absorb the divine energy.

✅ DOs (Sattvic):

  • Eat Singhara (Water Chestnut) & Sabudana.
  • Use Sendha Namak (Rock Salt) instead of table salt.
  • Keep your thoughts pure; practice meditation.
❌ DON’Ts (Tamasic):

  • Avoid Onion, Garlic, and Non-veg.
  • Avoid alcohol and tobacco completely.
  • Avoid cutting hair or nails during these 9 days.

Why Book a Pandit from SmartPuja?

🚧 Don’t Let “Pandit Unavailable” Ruin Your Puja

Navratri is the busiest time of the year. Local Pandits get booked months in advance, often leading to rushed rituals or last-minute cancellations.

With SmartPuja, you get:

  • Verified Vedic Pandits (No shortcuts in Vidhi)
  • All Samagri Brought by Us (You just sit & pray)
  • Guaranteed Booking (No last-minute backing out)

🚀 Check Availability in Your Area

Serving Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, 30+ Cities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When does Navratri start in 2026?

Shardiya Navratri 2026 begins on Monday, October 12, 2026.

2. Can we consume water during Navratri fasting?

Yes, water, milk, buttermilk, and fruit juices are allowed. Devotees usually avoid grains, onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian food.

3. What color should I wear on Day 1 of Navratri 2026?

Since Day 1 (Oct 12) is a Monday, the auspicious color is White.

4. How to book a Pandit for Durga Puja in Bangalore?

You can easily book a Pandit in Bangalore via SmartPuja.com. We offer experienced Pandits and Purohits for your specific traditions.

📍 Find Vedic Pandits in Your City

Nishchay Chaturvedi

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