Chaitra Navratri 2026 Date in India:Chaitra Navratri, one of the most sacred Hindu festivals dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms (Navadurga), marks the beginning of the Hindu lunar new year in many regions of India. Devotees observe nine days of fasting, prayers, and rituals, beginning with the important ceremony of Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana).
Chaitra Navratri 2026 Date in India
In 2026, Chaitra Navratri will begin on Thursday, 19 March 2026 and conclude on Friday, 27 March 2026, with the final day celebrated as Ram Navami.
The festival starts on the Pratipada Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Chaitra, symbolising new beginnings, spiritual purification, and devotion to Shakti (divine feminine energy).
Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana) 2026: Date and Muhurat
Kalash Sthapana is the most important ritual performed on the first day, invoking Goddess Durga into the home temple. It should always be done during an auspicious muhurat after sunrise while the Pratipada Tithi is prevailing.
- Kalash Sthapana Date: 19 March 2026 (Thursday)
- Most Auspicious Muhurat: 06:52 AM to 07:43 AM (Morning Muhurat)
- Abhijit Muhurat (Alternative Time): 12:05 PM to 12:53 PM
Pratipada Tithi Timing
- Pratipada Begins: 19 March 2026 at 06:52 PM
- Pratipada Ends: 20 March 2026 at 04:52 PM
Because the auspicious lagna occurs early morning on March 19, that day is chosen for Ghatasthapana rituals across India.
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Chaitra Navratri 2026: Day-Wise Important Dates
- Day 1 – 19 March: Maa Shailputri Puja & Ghatasthapana
- Day 2 – 20 March: Maa Brahmacharini Puja
- Day 3 – 21 March: Maa Chandraghanta Puja
- Day 4 – 22 March: Maa Kushmanda Puja
- Day 5 – 23 March: Maa Skandamata Puja
- Day 6 – 24 March: Maa Katyayani Puja
- Day 7 – 25 March: Maa Kalaratri Puja
- Day 8 – 26 March: Durga Ashtami & Maa Mahagauri Puja
- Day 9 – 27 March: Ram Navami & Maa Siddhidatri Puja
Rahu Kaal on the First Day
On the first day of Chaitra Navratri, Rahu Kaal will be from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. It is advisable to avoid undertaking any important activities during this period.
Why Chaitra Navratri Is Special?
Chaitra Navratri also known as Vasant Navratri possesses distinctive religious value because it functions as a Hindu New Year celebration for multiple states. The ninth day coincides with Ram Navami, the birth of Lord Rama. The day is considered auspicious for people who want to start new things and do religious activities.
