Chaitra Navratri 2026: Ghatasthapana Date, Muhurat, Pratipada Tithi & Significance
Chaitra Navratri 2026 marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year in many regions and is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her nine divine forms (Navadurga). The festival begins with Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana), which is considered the most important ritual of Navratri.
In 2026, Chaitra Navratri will begin on:
- Thursday, March 19, 2026
Ghatasthapana Muhurat – 2026
- Ghatasthapana Date: Thursday, March 19, 2026
- Ghatasthapana Muhurat: 06:52 AM to 07:43 AM
- Duration: 00 Hours 50 Minutes
Abhijit Muhurat (Alternative Time)
- 12:05 PM to 12:53 PM
- Duration: 00 Hours 48 Minutes
The main Ghatasthapana Muhurat falls during Dvi-Svabhava Meena Lagna, which is considered highly auspicious.
Panchang Details
- Pratipada Tithi Begins: 06:52 AM on March 19, 2026
- Pratipada Tithi Ends: 04:52 AM on March 20, 2026
- Meena Lagna Begins: 06:26 AM on March 19, 2026
- Meena Lagna Ends: 07:43 AM on March 19, 2026
Important Note:
Ghatasthapana Muhurat falls on Amavasya Tithi due to skipped Pratipada, which is a rare Panchang occurrence. Therefore, proper Muhurat timing becomes especially significant.
What is Ghatasthapana?
Ghatasthapana, also known as Kalash Sthapana, marks the invocation of Goddess Durga at the beginning of Navratri. A sacred Kalash filled with water is placed and worshipped as a symbol of divine energy.
During Chaitra Navratri, devotees worship Durga and her nine forms with devotion and fasting.
Significance of Chaitra Navratri
Chaitra Navratri falls in the Hindu month of Chaitra and signifies:
- Beginning of the Hindu New Year (in many regions)
- Arrival of spring season
- Spiritual renewal
- Victory of good over evil
It culminates on Ram Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama.
Rituals of Chaitra Navratri
1️⃣ Kalash Sthapana
Performed during the auspicious Muhurat. The Kalash is placed on a bed of soil where barley seeds are sown.
2️⃣ Fasting
Devotees observe fasts for nine days.
3️⃣ Daily Durga Puja
Each day is dedicated to one form of Navadurga.
4️⃣ Ram Navami Celebration
The ninth day marks the birth of Lord Rama.
Spiritual Importance
Chaitra Navratri is considered highly powerful for:
- Starting new ventures
- Seeking divine protection
- Inner purification
- Strength and courage
The energy of Goddess Durga is believed to remove negativity and obstacles.
Chaitra Navratri 2026 Summary
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chaitra Navratri Begins | March 19, 2026 | Thursday |
| Ghatasthapana Muhurat | 06:52 AM – 07:43 AM | 50 mins |
| Abhijit Muhurat | 12:05 PM – 12:53 PM | 48 mins |
| Pratipada Begins | 06:52 AM | March 19 |
| Pratipada Ends | 04:52 AM | March 20 |
Chaitra Navratri 2026 Wishes
- Happy Chaitra Navratri 2026! May Maa Durga bless you with strength and prosperity.
- May these nine days fill your life with positivity and devotion.
- Jai Mata Di!
- May divine blessings remove all obstacles from your path.
- Wishing you peace, happiness, and spiritual growth this Navratri.
Conclusion
Chaitra Navratri 2026 begins on Thursday, March 19, with Ghatasthapana performed during the auspicious Muhurat in Meena Lagna. This sacred nine-day festival is a time of devotion, discipline, and divine connection.
May Goddess Durga bless everyone with courage, health, and prosperity during Navratri 2026.
