Happy Navratri 2026: Ghatasthapana Muhurat, Maa Shailputri Puja Vidhi and 4 Lucky Signs

Shardiya Navratri 2026 began on Sunday, 11 October. Over the next nine days, devotees will worship the nine forms of Maa Durga. On the first day, the worship of Maa Shailputri and the Kalash Sthapana carry special significance. Marking the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also bowed to Maa Shailputri and prayed for patience, self-confidence and the goddess's blessings for the people of the country.

On the first day of Navratri, devotees are sharing Happy Navratri 2026 messages, Navratri wishes and Happy Navratri images with family and friends. For those preparing for the puja, the Ghatasthapana Muhurat 2026, the Kalash Sthapana method, the Maa Shailputri mantra and the aarti are also important.

Ghatasthapana Muhurat 2026: auspicious time for Kalash Sthapana

According to the Panchang, Shardiya Navratri begins on the Pratipada tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin. For Delhi and nearby areas, the main Ghatasthapana muhurat on 11 October is from 6:19 am to 10:12 am. The Abhijit Muhurat is from 11:44 am to 12:31 pm. Timings may differ from city to city according to the local Panchang.

Kalash Sthapana marks the start of the Navratri puja. A kalash is filled with water, topped with a coconut and leaves, and installed with due rituals. In many homes, barley (jau) is also sown in an earthen pot alongside the kalash.

Maa Shailputri puja vidhi: how to worship on day one

On the first day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Shailputri, the first form of Maa Durga. Religious belief describes her as the daughter of the Himalayan king, a goddess who rides a bull (Vrishabh). Her worship is associated with devotion, strength and a steady mind.

These general steps can be followed for the puja:

1. Bathe in the morning and clean the place of worship.
2. Install an idol or picture of Maa Durga.
3. Perform the Kalash Sthapana according to the rituals and sow barley.
4. Offer flowers, fruits, incense and a lamp to Maa Shailputri.
5. Chant mantras and perform the Durga aarti according to your family tradition.
6. Distribute prasad after the puja and pray for happiness and peace.

Religious tradition also mentions offering desi ghee as bhog to Maa Shailputri. The puja method and materials may vary with family tradition and local customs.

Maa Shailputri mantra

Devotees can chant this mantra during the worship of Maa Shailputri:

Mantra: “ॐ देवी शैलपुत्र्यै नमः।” (Om Devi Shailputryai Namah)

In Durga worship, the following verse dedicated to the Shailputri form of the goddess is also recited:

“या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शैलपुत्री रूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥”

Shardiya Navratri 2026: nine days may be favourable for these 4 zodiac signs

According to astrological belief, some planetary positions during this Shardiya Navratri are considered auspicious. On that basis, people born under Aries, Gemini, Leo and Libra are said to have chances of positive opportunities in career, finances and personal life. These are astrological estimates, however, not certain predictions.

Aries

For Aries, long-stalled work may start moving during Navratri. New opportunities may come up in jobs and careers. There are also said to be signs of financial relief and a rise in social standing.

Gemini

For Gemini, the period may be favourable for matters related to jobs and business, with a chance to prove one's ability at work. The advice is to avoid haste in financial decisions and think carefully before investing.

Leo

Leo natives may see a rise in self-confidence and respect. Salaried people may win praise from senior officials, while those in business may find new opportunities.

Libra

For Libra, the nine days of Navratri may be important for career and finances. There may be chances of new responsibilities or a promotion at work. Stuck money may come back, and those trying to change jobs may also find new opportunities.

Happy Navratri 2026 wishes for your loved ones

On the occasion of Navratri, you can send these messages to family, friends and acquaintances:

• Happy Navratri! May Maa Durga bring happiness, peace and prosperity into your life.
• May the blessings of Maa Shailputri keep your life full of new energy, confidence and joy. Happy Navratri 2026!
• May Mata Rani make all your good deeds successful and keep your family healthy, happy and prosperous. Jai Mata Di!
• On the holy festival of Shardiya Navratri, may happiness enter your home and may every day be auspicious.

You can also share these messages as your WhatsApp status, social media posts and Navratri status.

Shardiya Navratri 2026: how long will Navratri last?

According to available Panchang details, the nine-day Shardiya Navratri worship runs from 11 October to 19 October. Maha Navami falls on 19 October and Vijayadashami, or Dussehra, on 20 October.

During Navratri, devotees worship Maa Durga through fasting, puja, mantra chanting and aarti. The festival is also an occasion for devotion, discipline and celebration with family.

Please note: Ghatasthapana timings may vary by city. Confirm the time with your local Panchang before performing the puja. Zodiac predictions are based on astrological belief and should not be taken as certain financial or career outcomes.