Navratri 2025: Shubh Muhurat, Colours, Fasting Rules, and the Nine Divine Forms of Maa Durga

Navratri, one of India’s most vibrant festivals, is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. Celebrated with grandeur across the country, it is a time of devotion, fasting, and dazzling Garba and Dandiya nights. The nine days mark the victory of good over evil, reminding us of Goddess Durga’s triumph over the demon Mahishasura.

Dates of Navratri 2025

In 2025, Navratri begins on Monday, September 22, with Ghatasthapana and concludes on Wednesday, October 1. The celebrations end with Dussehra on Thursday, October 2, symbolising the victory of righteousness.

Day-Wise Worship & Shubh Muhurat

Each day of Navratri is devoted to one form of Goddess Durga:

Day 1 (Sept 22): Maa Shailputri - Ghatasthapana between 6:27 AM and 8:16 AM
Day 2 (Sept 23): Maa Brahmacharini - Auspicious Abhijit Muhurat 11:49 AM–12:37 PM
Day 3 (Sept 24): Maa Chandraghanta - Evening Godhuli Muhurat 6:15 PM–6:39 PM
Day 4 (Sept 25): Vinayaka Chaturthi - Muhurat 11:18 AM–1:42 PM
Day 5 (Sept 26): Maa Kushmanda - Panchami Tithi begins 9:33 AM
Day 6 (Sept 27): Maa Skandamata - Abhijit Muhurat 11:48 AM–12:36 PM
Day 7 (Sept 28): Maa Katyayani - Brahma Muhurta 4:36 AM–5:24 AM
Day 8 (Sept 29): Maa Kalaratri - Mula Nakshatra begins 3:55 AM
Day 9 (Sept 30): Maa Mahagauri - Ashtami Tithi till 6:06 PM

The celebrations end with Vijayadashami (Dussehra), a day seen as auspicious for new beginnings.

Rituals of Navratri

Navratri begins with Ghatasthapana, the symbolic installation of a kalash. Devotees observe fasts, worship the nine forms of Durga, and take part in Garba and Dandiya dances, especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra. The final day often includes Kanya Puja, where young girls are honoured as forms of the Goddess.

The Legend Behind Navratri

The story of Navratri comes from the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Blessed with a boon that no man or god could defeat him, Mahishasura wreaked havoc. Durga, born of divine energies, fought him for nine nights and finally destroyed him, restoring peace.

Colours of Navratri 2025

Each day of Navratri has a colour symbolising a unique energy of the Goddess:

Day 1: White - purity and peace
Day 2: Red - love and strength
Day 3: Royal Blue - calmness and elegance
Day 4: Yellow - happiness and positivity
Day 5: Green - growth and new beginnings
Day 6: Grey - balance and composure
Day 7: Orange - energy and enthusiasm
Day 8: Peacock Green - kindness and freshness
Day 9: Pink - warmth and affection

How Navratri is Celebrated Across India

Navratri celebrations differ by region.

North India: Fasting, prayers, and Ram Lila performances.
Gujarat & Maharashtra: Garba and Dandiya in full swing, with colourful outfits.
West Bengal: The grand Durga Puja with artistic pandals and cultural events.
South India: Display of dolls known as Golu and temple celebrations.

Food and Fasting Rules

Devotees follow a saatvik diet, avoiding onion, garlic, grains, meat, and alcohol. Meals typically include fruits, milk, sabudana, and dishes made with singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour). This not only maintains purity but also keeps energy levels high during fasting.

Significance of Navratri

Navratri is not just a festival it’s a reminder of courage, devotion, and the ultimate victory of truth. Each form of Durga represents a strength that guides devotees through challenges, bringing blessings, protection, and positivity.

Is Navratri a Bank Holiday?

While none of the nine days are official bank holidays, some states declare local holidays depending on traditions and regional importance.

FAQs

What is Navratri?
A nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms.

Why is Navratri celebrated?
It marks Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, symbolising the win of good over evil.

What are the colours of Navratri 2025?
White, Red, Royal Blue, Yellow, Green, Grey, Orange, Peacock Green, and Pink.

How is Dussehra celebrated?
It marks the end of Navratri, celebrated with effigies of Ravana being burnt and prayers for new beginnings.