Chaitra Navratri 2026 Calendar: Check Day-wise goddess, dates, puja rituals and lucky colours

Chaitra Navratri 2026 Calendar: Check Day-wise goddess, dates, puja rituals and lucky colours (image: canva)

• Chaitra Navratri 2026: March 19 to Rama Navami.
• Nine days honor Goddess Durga's forms with fasting and rituals.
• Ghatasthapana rituals are performed on March 19, 2026.

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Chaitra Navratri 2026: Navratri will begin on Thursday, March 19, 2026, marking the start of the Hindu lunar New Year in many regions of India. This nine-day festival is dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, collectively known as Navdurga. Devotees observe fasting, perform Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana), and worship different forms of the goddess each day to seek blessings for prosperity, strength, and spiritual growth. Chaitra Navratri is also called Vasant Navratri and concludes with Rama Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama.

This festival is widely celebrated in North India, while in other regions it coincides with celebrations such as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra and Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Chaitra Navratri 2026 Day-Wise Calendar

The festival concludes with Rama Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama.

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Chaitra Navratri: Importance in Hindu Traditions

Chaitra Navratri marks the beginning of the Hindu lunar calendar year and symbolises renewal, spiritual awakening, and devotion. Devotees observe fasting, prayers, and special rituals during these nine days to honour Goddess Durga and seek divine blessings for health, prosperity, and protection.

FAQs: Chaitra Navratri 2026

1. When is Chaitra Navratri 2026 starting? Is it March 18 or March 19?

Chaitra Navratri officially begins on Thursday, March 19, 2026. While the Pratipada Tithi begins on the evening of March 18, Hindu rituals follow the Udaya Tithi (sunrise timing). Therefore, Ghatasthapana and Day 1 rituals must be performed on March 19.

2. What is the Shubh Muhurat for Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) 2026?

The most auspicious window for Ghatasthapana is 6:52 AM to 7:43 AM on March 19. If you miss this early window, the Abhijit Muhurat from 12:05 PM to 12:53 PM is the secondary best time.

3. Can we do Griha Pravesh or weddings during Chaitra Navratri 2026?

No. This is a critical point for 2026. Although Navratri is generally auspicious, the Kharmas period overlaps with it this year. Kharmas prohibits "Manglik" works like marriages, housewarmings and buying property, even during Navratri.

4. What are the 9 colours for Chaitra Navratri 2026?

• Day 1: Yellow
• Day 2: Green
• Day 3: Grey
• Day 4: Orange
• Day 5: White
• Day 6: Red
• Day 7: Royal Blue
• Day 8: Pink
• Day 9: Purple/Sky Blue

5. On which date are Ashtami and Kanya Puja in 2026?

Durga Ashtami (Mahagauri Puja) falls on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Kanya Puja is traditionally performed on this day or on Navami morning.

6. When is Rama Navami 2026?

Rama Navami, marking the birth of Lord Rama and the conclusion of Navratri, is on Friday, March 27, 2026.

7. What is the "Vahana" (Vehicle) of Maa Durga for Chaitra Navratri 2026?

In 2026, Maa Durga arrives on a Doli (Palanquin/Litter). According to scriptures, this arrival signifies potential political shifts or intense seasonal changes but remains a blessing for devoted seekers.

8. What are the essential fasting (Vrat) rules for Chaitra Navratri?

Devotees should avoid grains, salt (use Sendha Namak), onion and garlic. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited. Consumption of fruits, milk and Sattvic foods like Sabudana and Kuttu is encouraged.

9. When is the best time for Sandhi Puja in 2026?

Sandhi Puja, the most powerful 48 minutes between Ashtami and Navami, occurs on March 26, 2026. The exact transition window is roughly between 11:24 AM and 12:12 PM.

10. How to do Navratri Parana (breaking the fast) in 2026?

The fast should be broken on Friday, March 27, 2026, after the Rama Navami Puja and Havan are completed.

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With its deep cultural and spiritual meaning, Chaitra Navratri 2026 continues to be one of the most important Hindu festivals, celebrated with devotion and joy across India.