Navratri 2026 Dates: When Does Sharada Navratri Start and End?

Sharada Navratri 2026: Exact Dates

In 2026, the most widely celebrated form of the festival—Sharada Navratri—begins on 11 October 2026 (Sunday) and concludes on 19 October 2026 (Monday). The festivities culminate on the tenth day, Vijayadashami (also known as Dussehra), which falls on 20 October 2026, celebrating the victory of good over evil.

These dates are determined by the Hindu lunisolar calendar. According to a Jagran report published on 9 October 2026, the festival starts on 11 October. This is further supported by Wikipedia, which lists the Sharada Navratri window as 11 October to 19 October 2026.

Understanding the Calendar and Significance

The term Navratri is derived from the Sanskrit words nava (nine) and ratri (night), literally meaning "nine nights." While there are theoretically four seasonal Navratris—including Vasanta, Magha, and Ashada—the Sharada Navratri occurring in the lunar month of Ashvin (September/October) is the most prominent across the Indian subcontinent.

Because the lunar year is approximately eleven days shorter than the solar year, the Gregorian dates for these festivals shift annually. The 2026 dates are based on the bright fortnight (waxing phase) of the lunar month of Ashvin, beginning on the first day, or pratipada.

Observances and Regional Traditions

During these nine nights, devotees worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, known as the Navadurga. Common practices include fasting, performing puja, and decorating pandals. The celebration varies significantly by region:

• Western India (Gujarat): Celebrations are characterized by arti followed by the rhythmic Garba dance.
• Eastern India (West Bengal): The festival is synonymous with Durga Puja, featuring massive artistic pandals and the celebration of Durga's victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
• Southern India: There is a strong tradition of Ayudha Puja, typically on the ninth day, where tools, machinery, and musical instruments are worshipped as a tribute to Goddess Saraswati.

Quick Reference for Navratri 2026

For those planning their observances or travel, here is the key timeline for the 2026 autumn celebrations:

Event	Date (2026)	Significance
Sharada Navratri Start	11 October (Sunday)	Beginning of the nine nights of worship
Sharada Navratri End	19 October (Monday)	Conclusion of the nine-night fasts/puja
Vijayadashami / Dussehra	20 October (Tuesday)	Victory of good over evil; idol immersion