Chaitra Navratri Begins March 19, 2026, in India

Chaitra Navratri, a major Hindu festival honoring Goddess Durga and her nine forms, began on Thursday, March 19, 2026, across India and among Hindu communities worldwide. The nine-day observance, which runs through Friday, March 27, coincides with the start of the Hindu lunar new year, Vikram Samvat 2083, and emphasizes themes of renewal and the triumph of good over evil.

Devotees kicked off the festival with Ghatasthapana, the ritual installation of a sacred kalash to invoke the goddess. According to the Hindu Panchang, the auspicious muhurat for this ceremony fell between 6:52 a.m. and 7:43 a.m. on the first day, with an alternative Abhijit muhurat from 12:05 p.m. to 12:53 p.m. for those who missed the primary window. The festival unfolds over the bright fortnight of the Chaitra month, aligning with spring's arrival and symbolizing personal and seasonal transformation.

Each day of Chaitra Navratri is dedicated to one of the Navadurga, the nine incarnations of Durga, with specific colors recommended for attire and decorations to channel the deity's energy. On March 19, the first day honors Maa Shailputri, daughter of the mountains and embodiment of strength and grounding, with...