Shardiya Navratri 2026 begins on October 11 with Ghatasthapana and runs through October 19, with Dussehra falling on October 20. The nine-night festival honours the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

Each day is dedicated to one goddess: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri. Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers and decorate homes and temples.

The festival also has its colour tradition, with a specific colour assigned to each day. Many devotees dress in the day’s colour as a mark of devotion. Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami, the eighth and ninth days, are considered especially auspicious.

Navratri is celebrated with regional variations across India, from Garba and Dandiya nights in Gujarat to Durga Puja pandals in West Bengal. This year’s festival comes close on the heels of Diwali preparations, making October a packed festive month.

Temples see heavy footfall through the nine days, with special pujas on Ashtami and Navami. Many housing societies organise community Garba events, and markets stock up on festive wear, puja items and sweets ahead of the festival.