Vedic calendar
Sharad Navratri 2026
Nine autumn nights honouring the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
Sunday, 11 October 2026 in New Delhi
Ashwin Shukla Pratipada: 21:20 on Saturday, 10 October 2026 to 21:32 on Sunday, 11 October 2026 (India time)
| New Delhi | Sun, 11 Oct 2026 | |
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| London | Sun, 11 Oct 2026 | |
| New York | Sun, 11 Oct 2026 | |
| Sydney | Sun, 11 Oct 2026 |
What it is
Sharad Navratri begins on Ashwin Shukla Pratipada. Each of the nine nights honours a form of Durga (the Navadurga), and the festival culminates in Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami and Vijayadashami.
Traditional significance
It is a season of devotion, fasting, music and dance, celebrating the victory of light over darkness and of courage over fear.
History and culture
It is celebrated with Garba and Dandiya in Gujarat, Durga Puja in Bengal, Golu (displays of dolls) in Tamil Nadu, and Saraswati Puja and Ayudha Puja in Kerala and Karnataka.
A suggested practice
Nine nights of light · about 5 minutes
- Each evening, light a lamp or candle (safely).
- Name one fear, and one quality that helps you face it.
- Close with a short prayer or a moment of silence.
Affirmation
Courage and grace grow in me each day.
Reflection question
What would I do if I trusted my inner strength?
Continue on Inner Balance by Praseeth
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Astrological and traditional meanings are offered for reflection and cultural understanding. They are symbolic, not scientific predictions, and never a substitute for medical, legal or financial advice.