Chaitra Navratri 2026 Dates, Rituals, and Symbolic Traditions Explained

Chaitra Navratri 2026, marking the Hindu New Year, begins on March 19 and concludes on March 26 or 27, with some sources noting an eight-day span due to Mahashtami and Ram Navami coinciding on March 26. Devotees worship various forms of Goddess Durga, observing rituals like Ghatasthapana and Kanya Pujan. Maa Durga's symbolic arrival on a Palaki and departure on an Elephant carries traditional significance. Bringing auspicious items like peacock feathers and coins before the festival is believed to invite positivity and prosperity.