This year, Shardiya Navratri will be celebrated for 10 days, starting from September 22nd and concluding on October 2nd with Dussehra. The Kalash Sthapana (invocation ceremony) during the Hast Nakshatra on the Pratipada Tithi is considered especially auspicious. The Goddess's arrival on an elephant vehicle this year signifies the importance of Navratri.
Shardiya Navratri 2025: Shardiya Navratri 2025 begins on September 22nd and will span 10 days, concluding with the celebration of Vijayadashami on October 2nd. Due to the Tritiya Tithi extending over two days, Navratri will last for 10 days instead of the usual 9. The Kalash Sthapana is considered particularly auspicious this year due to the presence of Hast Nakshatra and Shukla Yoga on the Pratipada Tithi. The symbolic significance of the Goddess arriving on an elephant vehicle further enhances the special nature of this Navratri.
Timings for Navratri and Dussehra
This year, Navratri commences with the Pratipada of Ashwin Shukla Paksha. The Pratipada Tithi will start at 1:24 AM on September 21st, 2025, and will continue until 2:55 AM on September 22nd, 2025. During this period, Hast Nakshatra will commence after 11:55 AM. Performing the Kalash Sthapana on this day is considered extremely auspicious. This year, the final puja of Navratri, Mahanavami, will be observed on October 1st, and Vijayadashami will be celebrated on October 2nd.
A Festival of Devotion and Faith
In Shardiya Navratri 2025, the Goddess will be seated on an elephant vehicle. According to Hindu beliefs, the vehicle of the Goddess carries a special message. An elephant vehicle is considered a symbol of strength, wisdom, and prosperity. Witnessing this, devotees believe that the Goddess will bring prosperity, happiness, and success to their homes and families with her blessings this year.
Shardiya Navratri: Worship of the Nine Forms of Goddess Durga
Shardiya Navratri is one of the major Navratris celebrated in the year. A total of four Navratris are celebrated annually, of which two are observed secretly and two are celebrated openly. Shardiya Navratri is celebrated openly and symbolizes the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Each day is dedicated to the worship of a different form, and devotees fervently pray for the Goddess's blessings with deep devotion.
Auspicious Time for Pratipada
Along with Hast Nakshatra on the Pratipada Tithi, Shukla Yoga will also prevail throughout the day. The Kalash Sthapana performed during this time is considered highly auspicious. According to religious beliefs, the puja and worship performed on this day ensure sustained happiness, prosperity, and peace throughout the year. Special preparations are made in temples and homes on this day.
Significance of the Ten-Day Navratri
The significance of Navratri has increased this year as it will be celebrated for 10 days. Due to the Tritiya Tithi spanning two days, more time will be allocated to each puja and ritual. Devotees will worship the various forms of Goddess Durga for 10 days. The festival will conclude with the celebration of Vijayadashami on Dussehra.
During Navratri, homes and temples are specially decorated. Durga Puja, Katha Vachan (scripture recitation), Mantra Uchharan (chanting of mantras), and Bhajan-Kirtan (devotional singing) are organized. Fasting and consuming sattvic (pure) food hold importance during this festival. Worshipping the nine forms of the Goddess bestows spiritual strength and mental peace.
