Chaitra Navratri 2026: Key Dates for Ashtami and Navami Celebrations
Ashtami and Navami Dates: The Chaitra Navratri festival is nearing its end, but before it wraps up, devotees observe a significant ritual known as *Kanya Pujan*, which involves honoring young girls. This practice is traditionally carried out on the last two days of Navratri, specifically during the Ashtami and Navami *Tithis* (lunar dates), and is viewed as a direct homage to the Goddess.
It is believed that the essence of Goddess Durga resides in young girls, and by worshipping them, devotees complete their fasts and seek divine blessings. However, there can be confusion regarding the observance of Ashtami and Navami when both lunar dates fall on the same day. Therefore, let's clarify when these dates will be celebrated during Chaitra Navratri in 2026.
When is Ashtami in 2026?
This year, the Ashtami *Tithi* of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) in Chaitra begins on March 25, 2026, at 1:50 PM and concludes on March 26 at 11:48 AM. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the lunar date at sunrise), Ashtami will be celebrated on Thursday, March 26, 2026, with *Kanya Pujan* taking place on this day.
Auspicious Timings for Ashtami *Kanya Pujan*
On Ashtami, March 26, *Kanya Pujan* can be performed between 6:18 AM and 7:50 AM. Additionally, the time frame from 10:55 AM to 3:31 PM is also considered favorable for this ritual.
Navami Date in 2026
When is Navami in 2026?
According to the *Panchang* (Hindu calendar), the Navami *Tithi* of the *Shukla Paksha* in Chaitra starts on March 26, 2026, at 11:48 AM and ends on March 27, 2026, at 10:06 AM. The festival of Rama Navami will also be celebrated on March 26, 2026, as Lord Rama was born during the *Abhijit Muhurat* (auspicious time). However, *Kanya Pujan* for Navami can be performed until 10:06 AM on March 27, 2026. The *Paran* (breaking of the fast) for Chaitra Navratri will occur on March 27th.
Auspicious Timings for *Kanya Pujan* on Navami
Astrologers indicate that favorable alignments will be present for *Kanya Pujan* on March 27th, with the *Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga* coinciding with the *Ravi Yoga*.
Abhijit Muhurat: 12:02 PM to 12:51 PM
Labh-Unnati Muhurat: 07:50 AM to 09:22 AM
Ram Navami Puja Timings
Ram Navami Puja Timings
Ram Navami is observed on March 26th. The auspicious time for worshipping Lord Rama on this day is from 11:13 AM to 1:41 PM. Notably, 12:27 PM marks the *Madhyahna Bela* (midday moment), which is considered the actual time of Lord Rama's birth.
Procedure for Breaking the Navratri Fast
Procedure for Breaking the Navratri Fast (*Vrat Paran*)
On *Mahanavami*, worship Goddess Durga with the appropriate rituals. Offer *Halwa*, *Puri*, and black chickpeas (*Kala Chana*) as *Bhog* (sacred food offering). Set aside a coconut to be distributed as *Prasad*. Afterward, serve food to young girls (*Kanyas*), touch their feet to seek blessings, and donate to the needy as per your ability. Finally, seek forgiveness for any mistakes made during the worship and fasting, and pray for happiness and prosperity.
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