About Sharad Navratri
Nine nights of worship of Goddess Durga in her nine forms (Navadurga). The most celebrated of the four annual Navratris, leading up to Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
Significance
Celebrates Goddess Durga's nine-day battle with the buffalo demon Mahishasura, culminating in his defeat on Vijayadashami. Each of the nine days is dedicated to a different form of Durga: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri.
Rituals & Observances
- ✦Daily puja to the nine forms of Durga
- ✦Fasting — many eat only fruits, milk and nuts for nine days
- ✦Garba and Dandiya Raas — traditional circular dances of Gujarat
- ✦Kanya Puja on Ashtami or Navami — nine girls fed and honoured as manifestations of Durga
- ✦Kumkum Archana (offering of vermilion powder)
- ✦All-night jagrata (vigil) with devotional music
Durga Temples to Visit
View all →Shri Navashakti Annama Devi Temple
Bengaluru, Karnataka
Sri Maha Prathyagira Devi Temple . Chikmagalur
Kavirathna Kalidasa Rd
kotte sri durgaparameshwari Devi Temple - (Kalasipalya)
SLN Charity Building, 3/90, VVI Rd
Shitla Devi Mata Mandir
Kukreja Institute Of Hotel Management & Catering Technology
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Sharad Navratri in 2026?▾
Sharad Navratri 2026 falls on Thursday, 1 October 2026. Note that festival dates may vary by 1–2 days by region — verify with a local panchangam.
Why is Sharad Navratri celebrated?▾
Celebrates Goddess Durga's nine-day battle with the buffalo demon Mahishasura, culminating in his defeat on Vijayadashami. Each of the nine days is dedicated to a different form of Durga: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri.
What are the main rituals of Sharad Navratri?▾
Daily puja to the nine forms of Durga. Fasting — many eat only fruits, milk and nuts for nine days. Garba and Dandiya Raas — traditional circular dances of Gujarat.
Which temples are best to visit on Sharad Navratri?▾
The best temples to visit on Sharad Navratri are those dedicated to Durga and Kali. See the temple listings below for top-rated options near you.
Upcoming Festivals
Festival dates are approximate and based on the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Actual dates may vary by 1–2 days by region. Verify with a local panchangam.