When is Chaitra Navratri starting? Know the auspicious time of Ghatasthapana, vehicle of Maa Durga and method of worship:

News India Live, Digital Desk: Chaitra Navratri has special significance in Hindu religion. It is not only a festival of devotion and worship of Shakti, but this day also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year (Vikram Samvat 2083). In the year 2026, Chaitra Navratri is coming with a very special coincidence. Devotees are already curious about which vehicle Maa Durga will come riding on this time and what will be the best time to install the Kalash.

Exact date of Chaitra Navratri 2026

According to the Panchang, Navratri starts from the Pratipada date of Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. Chaitra Navratri in the year 2026 March 19, Thursday starting from, ending with March 27, Friday It will coincide with the holy festival of Ram Navami.

Auspicious time for Ghatasthapana (installation of Kalash)

Ghatasthapana has special significance on the first day of Navratri. It is believed that installing the Kalash at the right time brings happiness and prosperity in the house.

Pratipada date start: From 18 March 2026, night

Ghatasthapana Muhurta: March 19, 2026, 06:15 am to 08:22 am (Amrit Choghadiya)

Abhijeet Muhurat: 11:58 PM to 12:46 PM (This is considered the best time for installation)

What is Maa Durga’s vehicle this time?

According to astrology, the journey of Maa Durga is decided based on the day on which Navratri begins. Since Chaitra Navratri in 2026 Thursday Maa Durga is starting from Doli (palanquin) Will come riding on. Arrival on a palanquin is considered to give mixed results, indicating patience and restraint for the devotees.

Simple Puja Method: How to perform Sthapana at home?

Purification: Wake up early in the morning, take bath and wear clean clothes.

choose location: Clean the puja room and place a wooden post in the north-east direction (Ishaan Kon).

Kalash installation: Sow barley in an earthen pot. Put Ganga water, coin, betel nut and Akshat in a copper or earthen pot.

Coconut: Place mango leaves on the mouth of the Kalash and wrap the chunri over it and install the coconut.

Akhand Jyoti: Light a lamp of ghee or oil in front of the Mother Goddess and take a pledge to fast for nine days.

Chaitra Navratri 2026 Calendar (Important Dates)

19 March: Mother Shailputri (First Day/Ghatasthapana)

26 March: Maha Ashtami (Kanya Puja)

27 March: Ram Navami (breaking of Navratri fast)