Shardiya Navratri 2026: Do's and Don'ts During Navratri? Keep these Things in Mind

Shardiya Navratri 2026

Shardiya Navratri is one of the most sacred and biggest festivals of Sanatan Dharm. This nine-day holy festival is dedicated to the worship of nine forms of Goddess Durga. During these nine days, devotees observe fast, do kalash sthapana, and worship Goddess Durga. According to the scriptures, some special rules have to be kept in mind during Navratri puja. Here, we will tell you what to keep in mind during puja.

Shardiya Navratri 2026 Date and Time

According to the Panchang, Shardiya Navratri will begin from the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month, which will begin from 10th October at 9:19 PM. At the same time, it will end at 9:30 PM on 11th October. As per Udaya Tithi, this year Shardiya Navratri will begin on 11th October.

What to do during Navratri?

• Every day, wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear red or yellow colored clothes.
• If you have lit the Akhand Jyoti in the house, then take care of it. Keep adding pure desi ghee or sesame oil to it from time to time.
• During the nine days of Navratri, recite Durga Saptashati daily or chant the mantra 'Om Ain Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vicche'.
• On Ashtami or Navami Tithi, perform Kanya Pujan with 9 girls and worship them, feed them, and seek blessings by giving them gifts and Dakshina.
• These days, donate food, clothes, and fruits to the poor and needy as per your capacity.

What not to do during Navratri?

• Do not consume garlic, onion, meat, alcohol, and stale food. Use only rock salt in food.
• According to religious beliefs, cutting hair, beard and cutting nails is considered inauspicious during the nine days of Navratri.
• If a Kalash is installed in your house or an Akhand Jyoti is burning, then never leave the house closed and alone.
• Do not use belts, purses, shoes, or jackets made of leather during worship or fasting.
• Keep your mind calm during these nine days. Avoid fights, anger, or insulting anyone at home, because Maa Durga does not reside in such places.