Festival guide 1962
Sharadiya Navratri
Sharadiya Navratri is the most celebrated Navratri, falling in the autumn season. It honors the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura and concludes with Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
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Central timing
Ghatasthapana Muhurat
Festival length
9 days of observance
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Observed on
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Ghatasthapana Muhurat
Festival length
9 days of observance
Festival Significance
Why this observance stays alive in memory
Sharadiya Navratri is the most celebrated Navratri, falling in the autumn season. It honors the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura and concludes with Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
Ritual path
Rituals
Perform Ghatasthapana on Day 1 during Abhijit Muhurta. Observe fasting for 9 days. Worship one form of Devi each day. Durga Ashtami and Maha Navami feature special pujas and havan. Conclude with Kanya Puja.
Discipline
Fasting
Strict fasting for 9 days. Satvic food only — no onion, garlic, grains. Fruits, milk, and sendha namak (rock salt) are permitted.
In Varanasi
Where the city adds its own colour
Varanasi's Durga Puja celebrations during Sharadiya Navratri are grand. Pandals are set up across the city. The Bengali community organizes vibrant celebrations at Dashashwamedh Ghat area. Ramnagar's Ramlila — the world's oldest — runs concurrently.