Mumbai: Sharadiya Navratri, one of the most sacred Hindu festivals, will begin this year on Monday, 22 September 2025, according to the Hindu Panchang. The nine-day celebration, dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms, will conclude on Thursday, 2 October 2025, with Vijayadashami (Dussehra). During this auspicious period, devotees observe fasts, perform rituals, and immerse themselves in devotion to seek blessings for peace, prosperity and protection from negativity.
The festival holds immense spiritual and cultural importance, as it symbolises the victory of good over evil. Navratri begins with Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana) – a ritual that marks the invocation of Goddess Durga. Performing the puja at the correct time and with the right vidhi (procedure) is considered essential for divine blessings. Here are the details of the Navratri 2025 start date, Kalash Sthapana shubh muhurat, puja vidhi, and the festival’s significance.
Kalash Sthapana 2025 Muhurat
Date: 22 September 2025 (Monday)
Time: 6:09 AM to 8:06 AM
Duration: 1 hour 56 minutes
The first day of Navratri begins with Kalash Sthapana, also called Ghatasthapana. This marks the formal commencement of the festival and must be performed during the auspicious window for best results.
Kalash Sthapana Puja Vidhi
Take a bath early in the morning and purify your home. Sprinkle Ganga jal to sanctify the puja space.
Clean the Kalash thoroughly and fill it with water. Add betel nut, a coin, rice grains (akshat) and flowers.
Sow barley seeds in a clay pot and place the water-filled Kalash on top.
Decorate the Kalash with vermilion (roli), rice, sacred thread (mauli), betel nut, coin and mango leaves.
Place a coconut wrapped in a red cloth on the Kalash and tie it with mauli.
Position the idol or image of Goddess Durga near the Kalash. Offer incense, lamps, flowers, and begin the worship.
Recite Durga Saptashati, Devi Stuti or Devi Kavach to complete the ritual.
Performing the ritual with proper vidhi ensures that the devotee receives the divine grace of Goddess Durga.
Significance of Navratri
Navratri is a festival that celebrates the triumph of righteousness over evil. As per Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga fought demon Mahishasura for nine days and nights, finally defeating him on the tenth day – symbolising the ultimate victory of dharma.
In 2025, it is believed that Goddess Durga will arrive on an elephant, which signifies abundance, prosperity and favourable rainfall. Observing fasts, performing puja, and chanting mantras during these nine days bring positivity, peace of mind, and removal of obstacles from life.