Navratri is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Hindu community of India. It is dedicated to Shakti, or the feminine power that we fondly refer to as Goddess Durga. Going by the literal meaning, Navratri means ‘nine nights’. It is celebrated twice a year, once right after the Spring season (Chaitra Navtratri) and the other before Autumn (Sharad Navratri). Chaitra Navratri falls during the period of March-April in the Gregorian calendar. This year Chaitra Navratri is staring on March 18 and will conclude on March 25 with Ram Navami. Check out the calendar of Chaitra Navratri 2018. All the dates have been provided by drikpanchang.
March 18 - Pratipada – Ghatasthapana, Chandra Darshan and Shailputri Puja
March 19 - Dwitiya - Sindhara Dooj and Brahmacharini Puja
March 20 - Tritiya – Gauri Teej, Saubhagya Teej and Chandraghanta Puja
March 21 - Chaturthi – Varad Vinayaka Chauth, Lakshmi Panchami and Kushmanda Puja
March 22 - Panchami – Naag Puja, Skanda Sashti and Skandamata Puja
March 23 - Shashti – Yamuna Chhath and Katyayani Puja
March 24 - Saptami – Maha Saptami, Kalaratri Puja, Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Puja Annapurna Ashtami
March 25 - Ashtami – Sandhi Puja and Rama Navami
March 26 – Navratri Parana and Dashami
During the nine days of Navratri, the nine incarnations of Goddess Durga are worshipped. Each day of Navratri is assigned to one avatar of Shakti.
This year Navratri will have 8 days instead of 9 days as the Navami and Ashtami are following on the same day. Chaitra Navratri is staring during Savarth Siddhi Yoga, which is considered quite auspicious as per our religious texts.
Never make these 5 mistakes while fasting for Chaitra Navratri 2018
If you’re observing the Navratri fast, then don’t get your haircut during this period. Avoid getting shaved as well.
If you’re installing a Kalash during Navratri and light an ‘Akhand Jyoti’, then never leave the house unattended.
It is considered inauspicious to cut lemon during Navratri. Hence, steer clear from lemon. Apart from this, non veg, onions and garlic are also prohibited.
According to Vishnu Puran, it is considered unfavourable to take an afternoon nap. It is believed that the positive effects of Navratri fasting are nullified by this.
Don’t wear black clothes during Navratri. Refrain from using leather products as well.
