Shardiya Navratri is set to begin on September 22, 2025. On the first day, Ghatasthapana (pot installation) and the worship of Maa Shailputri will be performed. On this occasion, devotees will perform rituals keeping in mind the auspicious timings (Shubh Muhurat), inauspicious period (Rahukaal), planetary positions, and their effects on zodiac signs. Navratri will be a nine-day festival of faith and devotion.
Shardiya Navratri 2025: Shardiya Navratri will commence across the country from September 22, 2025. On the first day of this significant Hindu festival, it is customary to perform Ghatasthapana and worship Maa Shailputri. During this ritual, betel nut, coin, Durva grass, and rice are placed in a kalash (pot) to invoke the Navagrahas (nine planets) and deities. Special importance is given to auspicious timings (Shubh Muhurat), inauspicious periods (Rahukaal), constellations (Nakshatra), and planetary positions for this festival, which begins on a Monday, to ensure devotees can perform their prayers at the correct time and receive the blessings of Maa Durga for all nine days.
Ghatasthapana and Worship of Maa Shailputri
The installation of the Kalash (pot) on the first day of Navratri is considered auspicious. According to religious belief, Ghatasthapana infuses positive energy into the home and ensures happiness and prosperity throughout the year. As per tradition, betel nut, coin, Durva grass, and rice are placed in the Kalash to invoke the Navagrahas and all deities. For the worship of Maa Shailputri, it is advised to include vermillion (kumkum), turmeric, white lotus, rice, a chunari (scarf), and sandalwood. Offering sweets made from cow's milk and ghee to the Goddess is also considered auspicious.
Special Day According to the Panchang
This year, Shardiya Navratri begins on a Monday, which is considered even more auspicious. Worshipping the Goddess on a Monday is believed to bring mental peace and prosperity to the home. Furthermore, the planetary positions and constellations on this day are also said to be favorable for worship.
Panchang for September 22, 2025
- Tithi (Lunar Day): Pratipada (From 1:23 AM on September 22, 2025, to 2:55 AM on September 23, 2025)
- Day: Monday
- Nakshatra (Constellation): Uttara Phalguni
- Yoga: Shukla
- Sunrise: 6:08 AM
- Sunset: 6:21 PM
- Moonrise: 6:25 AM
- Moonset: 6:30 PM
- Moon Sign: Virgo
Choghadiya Muhurat (Auspicious Timings)
- Morning Choghadiya
- Amrit: 6:09 AM – 7:40 AM
- Shubh: 9:11 AM – 10:43 AM
- Evening Choghadiya
- Char: 6:18 PM – 7:47 PM
- Rahukaal and Inauspicious Timings (Today's Rahukaal)
- Rahukaal: 7:40 AM – 9:11 AM (Avoid auspicious activities during this period)
- Yamaganda Kaal: 10:43 AM – 12:14 PM
- Gulik Kaal: 1:45 PM – 3:16 PM
- Aadal Yoga: 11:24 AM – 6:10 AM on September 24
During these periods, it is advised to avoid performing worship, starting new ventures, or making major decisions.
Planetary Positions (Graha Gochar September 22, 2025)
- Planet Position
- Sun Virgo
- Moon Virgo
- Mars Libra
- Mercury Virgo
- Jupiter Gemini
- Venus Libra
- Saturn Pisces
- Rahu Aquarius
- Ketu Leo
According to astrological beliefs, these planetary positions make the first day of Navratri even more special. Particularly for individuals with Virgo and Libra zodiac signs, this period indicates auspiciousness.
Which Zodiac Signs will Benefit
This day will be particularly beneficial for people of the Sagittarius zodiac sign. They may gain advantages in matters related to land, property, and vehicles. Relationships with family will improve, and mental peace will be attained. This period will also be auspicious for starting new ventures.
Which Zodiac Signs Should Be Cautious
Individuals of the Cancer zodiac sign should exercise some caution on this day. A lack of desired success might lead to stress. Situations of conflict could arise, so it is important to maintain patience. Negative energies can be avoided through worship and meditation.
Maa Shailputri Puja Rituals
On the first day, purity and devotion hold special significance in the worship of Maa Shailputri. Cleanse the worship area and perform Kalash Sthapana. Purify the area around the Kalash with Gangaajal (holy Ganges water) and invoke the Navagrahas and deities by placing betel nut, coin, Durva grass, and rice into it. Offer vermillion (kumkum), turmeric, sandalwood, white lotus, a chunari (scarf), and rice to Maa Shailputri. Conclude the puja by offering sweets made from cow's milk and ghee, followed by Aarti.
Dos and Don'ts During Navratri
Dos:
- Perform Aarti of Maa Durga every morning and evening.
- Maintain cleanliness in the home.
- Those observing fasts should consume sattvic (pure) food.
- Offer food and donations to the poor.
Don'ts:
- Avoid non-vegetarian food and alcohol during Navratri.
- Do not quarrel with anyone or use harsh words.
- Do not keep shoes or slippers in the worship area.
Significance of Navratri
Shardiya Navratri is the biggest festival for the worship of Maa Durga. It is considered a time of power (Shakti) and spiritual practice (Sadhana). It is believed that during this period, Maa Durga descends to Earth among her devotees and alleviates their sufferings. The nine forms of the Goddess are worshipped over the nine days of Navratri. The first day is dedicated to Maa Shailputri, who is regarded as a symbol of the power and stability of the mountains.
Importance of Planetary Positions and Worship
This time, the planetary positions are indicating positive signs for individuals of the Virgo, Libra, and Gemini zodiac signs. Performing worship and rituals during Navratri can lead to mental peace and improvement in one's career. Astrologers believe that special remedies undertaken during this period can alleviate obstacles caused by Rahu, Ketu, and Saturn.
Special Beneficial Remedies
- On the first day, offer white clothes to Maa Shailputri.
- Always place betel nut and a coin in the Kalash along with Gangaajal.
- Offer red or white flowers to the Goddess daily.
- Chant the mantras of Maa Durga at home.
Cultural and Social Aspects of Navratri
Navratri is not merely a religious festival; it is also a social and cultural celebration. During these days, events like Garba and Dandiya are organized in many parts of the country. Temples are specially decorated. An atmosphere of fasting, bhajans (devotional songs), and kirtan (chanting) prevails in people's homes.
Symbol of Faith and Belief
Navratri is a time for devotees to gather spiritual strength and positive energy. During this period, there is an opportunity to stabilize the mind through meditation, yoga, and devotion. Astrologers also state that worship and fasting performed at the right time bring new energy and opportunities into life.