11 अक्टूबर
Navratri
Nine nights of worship to the nine forms of Goddess Durga
See all Durga content →History
Sharad Navratri is celebrated in the bright fortnight of Ashwin and centers on the story of Goddess Durga's defeat of the demon Mahishasura, narrated in the Devi Mahatmyam (Durga Saptashati). Over nine nights, nine forms of the Goddess are worshipped — Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri — followed by Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on the tenth day.
Significance
Navratri honors divine feminine power (Shakti) and the triumph of good over evil. The nine days combine fasting, self-discipline, garba-dandiya celebrations, and Kanya Puja (honoring young girls as forms of the Goddess).
Puja Vidhi
On the first day, perform Ghatasthapana (sacred pot installation) and take a vow to observe the fast. Worship one form of the Goddess each day, reciting the Durga Saptashati or Durga Chalisa. On Ashtami or Navami, perform Kanya Puja by feeding young girls.
Mantra
ॐ ऐं ह्रीं क्लीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे॥
Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche॥
This is the Navarna Mantra, a powerful bija mantra believed to invoke the awakened power of Goddess Durga.
Muhurat
Ghatasthapana is performed in the auspicious morning muhurat of Pratipada tithi. Check the Panchang for the exact timing.
Check today's Panchang →Do's & Don'ts
✅ Do
- • Perform Ghatasthapana only during the auspicious muhurat
- • Keep an Akhand Jyoti (unbroken lamp) lit for all nine days
- • Worship a different form of the Goddess each day
- • Perform Kanya Puja on Ashtami or Navami
❌ Don't
- • Avoid onion and garlic if observing the fast
- • Don't leave the Akhand Jyoti completely unattended
- • Traditionally avoid cutting hair or nails during the nine days
- • Keep the puja area clean and undisturbed