About Navratri (Shardiya)
Navratri, meaning nine nights, is a major Hindu festival devoted to Goddess Durga in her nine forms. The autumn celebration, known as Shardiya Navratri, honours the divine feminine and the victory of good over evil. Each of the nine nights is associated with a different aspect of the goddess, and devotees seek her blessings for strength, prosperity and protection throughout the festive period.
Navratri is celebrated across India with regional variations. In Gujarat and beyond, evenings come alive with garba and dandiya raas, where dancers move in circles to traditional music. Many devotees observe fasting, wear colours linked to each day and visit temples. In other regions the days overlap with Durga Puja, and the festival culminates in Dussehra, marking the close of the nine nights.
Navratri follows the Hindu lunar calendar, with Shardiya Navratri falling in the month of Ashwin (usually September or October), so its Gregorian date changes every year. The nine nights lead directly into Dussehra on the tenth day. The live countdown above tracks the next date for you. You are welcome to add this countdown to your own page so the celebration is always in sight.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Sunday, October 11, 2026next |
| 2027 | Thursday, September 30, 2027 |
| 2028 | Tuesday, September 19, 2028 |
FAQ
When is Navratri this year and what date is it?
Shardiya Navratri follows the Hindu lunar calendar, so the date varies each year, usually arriving in September or October. The live countdown above shows the exact next date.
Why is Navratri celebrated?
Navratri honours Goddess Durga in her nine forms and celebrates the triumph of good over evil. The nine nights are devoted to seeking the goddess's blessings of strength and prosperity.
How is Navratri celebrated?
People observe fasting, worship the goddess and gather for garba and dandiya dancing in the evenings. Many wear specific colours for each day and visit temples.
What is the difference between Navratri and Dussehra?
Navratri refers to the nine nights of worship of Goddess Durga, while Dussehra is the tenth day that follows. Dussehra celebrates the victory that the nine nights build towards.