India, March 18 -- Chaitra Navratri 2026 calendar: Chaitra Navratri is a nine-day period of devotion, fasting, and spiritual reflection, dedicated to the worship of Maa Durga and her nine revered forms, collectively known as the Navdurgas. The auspicious festival culminates with Ram Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama.

Observed from the first day of the Chaitra month, it also marks the beginning of the Hindu lunar new year, making it a time of renewed energy and faith. If you're gearing up to celebrate Navratri in 2026, here's everything you need to know, from the start date and the significance of each of the nine days to the timing of Ashtami and Ram Navami.

Chaitra Navratri is observed during the Shukla Paksha (bright lunar ph...