Shardiya Navratri 2026: According to the Vedic almanack (Panchang), Shardiya Navratri 2026 is set to begin on October 11. During Navratri, different forms of the Goddess are worshipped over a period of nine days. The festival is celebrated with immense enthusiasm across the country. Religious belief holds that worshipping Goddess Durga with a sincere heart during Shardiya Navratri dispels all of life’s difficulties and troubles.

Furthermore, the goddess’s grace ensures peace and happiness in the devotee’s life. Let us find out when Shardiya Navratri begins in 2026, the auspicious time (muhurat) for *Ghatsthapana*, and the *vahana* (divine vehicle) upon which Goddess Durga will arrive this year.

Shardiya Navratri 2026: Start and End Dates
The nine-day festival of Shakti will commence on the Pratipada Tithi (first day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Ashwin:

Navratri Start Date: October 11, 2026 (Sunday)
Navratri End Date: October 19, 2026 (Monday)

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Mahashtami 2026 Date and Time
According to the Vedic almanack, the *Ashtami Tithi* (eighth day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin will begin on October 18 at 08:27 AM. This *Tithi* will conclude on October 19 at 10:51 AM. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the sunrise date), Mahashtami will be celebrated with great fervour on October 19.

Mahanavami 2026 Date and Time
Start of Navami Tithi (ninth day) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin: October 19 at 10:51 AM.
Conclusion of Navami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin: October 20 at 12:50 PM. According to the Udaya Tithi (sunrise-based date), the Kanya Pujan for Navami will be performed on October 20.

Goddess Durga’s Arrival on an Elephant
According to religious beliefs, Goddess Durga will arrive on an elephant this year. The goddess’s arrival on an elephant is considered highly auspicious in religious traditions. The elephant is regarded as a symbol of prosperity and opulence. Therefore, it is believed that her arrival on an elephant can usher in good rainfall, happiness, prosperity, and an atmosphere of well-being.

Auspicious Time (Muhurat) for Kalash Sthapna
According to the Panchang (Hindu almanack), the Abhijit Muhurat on October 11 will last from 11:36 AM to 12:24 PM. Performing the *Kalash Sthapna* during this period is considered auspicious.

However, the timing may vary slightly across different cities due to differences in sunrise times and local time. Therefore, devotees should verify the auspicious time according to their local *Panchang*.

Requirements for Kalash Sthapna
Kalash (made of copper, brass, or clay)
Pure water and Gangajal (water from the Ganges)
Coconut, fresh flowers, Akshat (unbroken rice grains), turmeric
Durva grass, Bel leaves, betel leaves
Red or yellow cloth
Vermilion (Sindoor) / Kumkum, Diya (lamp), Prasad (offering)
A low wooden platform (Chauki) or a metal tray (Thal)