The Pratipada tithi begins at 9:19 pm on October 10, marking the start of Sharad Navratri. The first day of Navratri 2026 will be celebrated on Sunday, October 11, when devotees perform Ghatasthapana and begin nine days of prayers dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, starting with Maa Shailputri.
According to the New Delhi Panchang, Pratipada will end at 9:30 pm on October 11. Sharad Navratri will continue until October 19, followed by Vijayadashami on October 20.
Why Navratri Begins With Maa ShailputriSharad Navratri is dedicated to the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, collectively known as Navadurga. Maa Shailputri is the first form worshipped during this sacred festival, and her puja marks the beginning of the nine-day spiritual observance.
The word Shailputri translates to 'daughter of the mountains'. She is believed to be the daughter of Himavat, the king of the Himalayas. Her association with mountains and the earth symbolises strength, stability and new beginnings, making her worship particularly significant on the first day of Navratri.
Who Is Maa Shailputri? The Daughter of the MountainsAccording to Hindu mythology, Maa Shailputri was Sati in her previous birth. She was the daughter of King Daksha and later took birth as Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva.
The Goddess is depicted riding a bull named Nandi, earning her the name Vrishabharudha. She carries a trident in her right hand and a lotus in her left. In spiritual traditions, Maa Shailputri is associated with the Muladhara Chakra, or root chakra, which represents grounding, stability and a strong foundation.
Her worship on the first day is believed to encourage devotees to begin their spiritual journey with faith, determination and inner strength.
Ghatasthapana Muhurat for Navratri 2026 Day 1Ghatasthapana, also known as Kalash Sthapana, is one of the most important rituals performed on the first day of Sharad Navratri. It involves installing a sacred pot that symbolises divine energy and marks the formal beginning of the festival's worship.
The ritual is traditionally performed during an auspicious morning period on Pratipada.
According to the New Delhi Panchang, the Ghatasthapana Muhurat on October 11, 2026, is from 6:19 am to 10:12 am. Devotees who cannot perform the ritual during this period may consider the alternative Abhijit Muhurat, from 11:44 am to 12:31 pm.
As auspicious timings vary according to geographical location, devotees should consult their local Panchang before performing the ritual.
How to Perform Maa Shailputri Puja on Day 1The first day of Navratri begins with preparations for the puja, followed by the installation of the sacred kalash and prayers to Maa Shailputri. The following traditional steps are commonly observed:
Clean the puja area: Wake up early, take a bath and thoroughly clean the place where the Goddess will be worshipped.
Sow barley seeds: Place soil in a clean container and sow barley seeds. The growing sprouts are traditionally associated with prosperity, growth and abundance.
Perform Ghatasthapana: Fill a kalash with water, arrange mango leaves around its opening and place a coconut wrapped in red cloth on top. Install the kalash in the designated puja area according to family traditions.
Offer prayers to Maa Shailputri: Light a diya and offer flowers, fruits and other traditional bhog items to the Goddess.
Chant the mantra: Recite 'Om Devi Shailaputryai Namah' while praying for strength, peace and prosperity.
Perform aarti: Conclude the puja with aarti and seek the blessings of Maa Shailputri.
Observe the Navratri fast: Devotees who observe Navratri fasting may follow their family's customary fasting rules throughout the festival.
Rituals and fasting practices can differ among families and regions, so devotees may follow the traditions they customarily observe.
Navratri Day 1 Colour: Orange and the Significance of GheeOrange is the traditional colour associated with the first day of Navratri 2026, as the festival begins on a Sunday. The vibrant shade is commonly associated with enthusiasm, warmth, energy and positivity. Devotees may wear orange clothing while performing puja or participating in Navratri celebrations.
Pure cow's ghee is traditionally offered to Maa Shailputri. Devotees believe that making this offering brings blessings and supports well-being. White flowers may also be included in the puja, depending on local and family customs.
As Sharad Navratri begins, the first day's observance centres on devotion, discipline and fresh beginnings. The sacred kalash, the light of a diya and the sowing of barley seeds represent the start of a spiritual journey dedicated to Goddess Durga. Through the worship of Maa Shailputri, devotees seek strength, stability and the determination to move forward with faith throughout the nine auspicious days.