Navratri Dates and Key Observances

Chaitra Navratri 2026 will be observed from March 19th to March 27th, marking a period of devotion, ritual, and spiritual renewal for devotees. The festivities start with Ghatasthapana on March 19th and culminate with Kanya Puja on Ashtami and Navami.

This year’s observance is particularly noteworthy due to the convergence of three auspicious yogas on the day of Ghatasthapana, alongside the influence of Chaitra Amavasya.

Ghatasthapana: Timing and Auspicious Yogas

According to the Hindu calendar, Chaitra Shukla Pratipada Tithi begins at 6:52 am on March 19th and continues until 4:52 am on March 20th. Sunrise on March 19th occurs during Amavasya Tithi, meaning the effect of Amavasya will be present during Ghatasthapana. Astrologers note this rare coincidence hasn’t occurred in approximately 72 years.

Three Auspicious Yogas

• Shukla Yoga: Effective from the morning of March 19th until 1:17 am on March 20th.
• Brahma Yoga: Starting at 1:17 am on March 19th, continuing through the night of March 20th.
• Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga: Will be present on March 20th from 4:05 am to 6:25 am.

Two auspicious times are recommended for installing the Kalash on March 19th: from 6:02 am to 7:43 am, and from 12:05 pm to 12:53 pm.

Nine Days, Nine Goddesses

Each day of Chaitra Navratri is dedicated to the worship of a different form of Goddess Durga:

• March 19: Worship and Ghatasthapana of Maa Shailputri
• March 20: Worship of Mother Brahmacharini
• March 21: Worship of Mother Chandraghanta
• March 22: Worship of Mother Kushmanda
• March 23: Worship of Mother Skandamata
• March 24: Worship of Maa Katyayani
• March 25: Worship of Maa Kalratri
• March 26: Worship of Maa Mahagauri
• March 27: Worship of Mother Siddhidatri
• March 28: Paran Tithi

The Significance of Ram Navami

The ninth day of Chaitra Navratri, March 27th, is celebrated as Ram Navami, commemorating the birth of Bhagwan Rama, the seventh incarnation of Bhagwan Vishnu.