Navratri is a nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, with each day holding its own spiritual significance. During the final days, devotees perform special prayers, observe fasts, conduct havans and worship young girls through Kanya Pujan before bringing the festival to a close.
In 2026, the dates of Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami have created some confusion because their respective tithis extend across two calendar days. According to the Panchang details provided, the festival’s final observances fall between October 17 and October 21. Here are the dates and auspicious timings for Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, Dashami and Dussehra.
Navratri Saptami 2026: Date and Observance
According to Drik Panchang, Saptami tithi extends across October 17 and 18, 2026. The date for observing the Saptami fast may depend on when a family plans to celebrate Maha Ashtami.
Devotees observing Ashtami on October 18 may keep the Saptami fast on October 17. Those following October 19 for Ashtami may observe Saptami on October 18. Families are advised to follow their customary religious practices and the local Panchang.
Maha Ashtami 2026: Date, Tithi and Puja Significance
Maha Ashtami is one of the most important days of Navratri, but its observance falls on different dates in some Panchang calculations this year.
Pandit Sujit Ji Maharaj explains that Ashtami during the Shukla Paksha of Ashwin is known as Moharatri. He points to the significance of Nishit Kaal, the night period associated with particular forms of worship, in determining the observance.
According to his interpretation, the main Ashtami puja, fast and major night-time tantric rituals should be performed on Sunday, October 18.
The Ashtami tithi is scheduled to begin at 8:27 AM on October 18 and end at 10:51 AM on October 19, 2026.
Maha Navami and Dashami 2026: Important Timings
Maha Navami will be observed on Monday, October 19, according to the supplied Panchang details. The Navami tithi begins at 10:51 AM on October 19 and ends at 12:50 PM on October 20.
Dashami falls on October 20. Many devotees conclude their Navratri fasts on this day, following the customs observed in their families.
The Dashami tithi begins at 12:50 PM on October 20 and ends at 2:11 PM on October 21, 2026. The appropriate time for concluding a fast may vary according to the tradition being followed.
Dussehra 2026: Date and Auspicious Muhurat
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
According to the timings provided, the Vijay Muhurat will be from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM. The Aparahna puja period is scheduled from 1:14 PM to 3:30 PM.
Devotees traditionally mark Vijayadashami with prayers and religious observances celebrating the victory of good over evil. Those planning rituals should confirm the timings with their local Panchang, as observance can vary by location and tradition.
Disclaimer: The dates and timings in this article are based on the supplied Panchang information and the attributed interpretation. Auspicious timings may vary according to location, local sunrise and regional customs. Please consult a trusted local Panchang or priest before finalising religious rituals.
