Sharadiya Navratri holds special religious significance in Hinduism. This festival begins on the *Pratipada* (first day) of the bright fortnight (*Shukla Paksha*) of the Ashwin month and continues until *Mahanavami*. During these nine days, the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped with prescribed rituals. While Navratri typically spans nine days, the duration can vary—lasting eight or ten days—depending on the lunar calendar dates.

It is believed that during Navratri, Goddess Durga visits her maternal home—Earth. A specific *Vahan* (divine vehicle) is designated for the Goddess's arrival each year; this time, she will arrive riding an elephant. According to religious beliefs, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya also accompany the Goddess to Earth.

**When will Navratri begin in October 2026?**

This year, Sharadiya Navratri will commence on Monday, October 11. According to the *Panchang* (Hindu almanac), the *Ashwin Shukla Pratipada* *tithi* (lunar day) begins at 9:19 PM on October 10 and concludes at 9:30 PM on October 11. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the sunrise date), Navratri is considered to start on October 11. The worship of Goddess Durga and the *Ghatsthapana* (ritual installation of the sacred pot) will also take place on this day.

**The Goddess's arrival on an elephant**

Beliefs regarding the Goddess's arrival vehicles are found in the *Devi Bhagavata Purana*. According to these texts, if Navratri begins on a Sunday or a Monday, Goddess Durga arrives on Earth riding an elephant.

**Is the Goddess's arrival on an elephant auspicious or inauspicious?**
In religious tradition, the elephant is considered a sign of Goddess Durga's auspicious arrival. It is said that her arrival on an elephant brings increased happiness, prosperity, and auspiciousness during Navratri. It is also believed to herald good rainfall and an abundance of crops and wealth on Earth.

**Auspicious time for *Kalash Sthapana***

*Ghatsthapana*—the ritual installation of the sacred pot (*Kalash*)—is performed on the first day of Navratri. This is considered a crucial part of worshipping the Goddess. In the scriptures, the *Kalash* is regarded as a symbol of *Devi Shakti* (Divine Power); therefore, installing it at the auspicious time (*Muhurat*) is considered very important. The auspicious time for *Kalash Sthapana* (installation of the sacred pot) on October 11, 2026, is scheduled between 6:19 AM and 10:12 AM. However, slight variations in the *Muhurat* (auspicious timing) are possible due to differences in sunrise times across various locations.

When will Durgashtami and Dussehra take place?
In 2026, Durgashtami will be celebrated on October 19; the *Navratri Havan* will be performed on this day. Dussehra will follow on the next day, October 20. The effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnada will be burnt during the *Pradosh Kaal* (evening twilight period), symbolizing the victory of good over evil and righteousness over unrighteousness.

Religious significance of Shardiya Navratri
During the nine days of Navratri, the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. It is believed that worshipping the Goddess with devotion and in accordance with prescribed rituals brings Her blessings to the devotees. The grace of Goddess Durga fosters happiness, peace, prosperity, and positivity in life, while also paving the way for the fulfillment of one's wishes.

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