Navratri is one of the most important festivals in Hinduism. It is celebrated four times a year, but the two main ones are Chaitra Navratri in spring and Sharad Navratri in autumn. In 2025, Sharad Navratri will begin on Monday, September 22, and end on Wednesday, October 1. The festival will conclude with Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on Thursday, October 2.
Navratri 2025: Colours For Each Day
A special tradition during Navratri is wearing a different colour each day, linked to the goddess being worshipped.
| Day | Colour | Goddess | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orange | Goddess Shailputri | Energy and enthusiasm |
| 2 | White | Goddess Brahmacharini | Purity and peace |
| 3 | Red | Goddess Chandraghanta | Strength and courage |
| 4 | Royal Blue | Goddess Kushmanda | Confidence and stability |
| 5 | Yellow | Goddess Skandamata | Joy and positivity |
| 6 | Green | Goddess Katyayani | Prosperity and growth |
| 7 | Grey | Maa Kalaratri | Balance and protection |
| 8 | Purple | Goddess Mahagauri | Spirituality and wisdom |
| 9 | Peacock Green | Goddess Siddhidatri | Luck and prosperity |
People often use these colours not just in clothing but also in home decorations, puja spaces, and accessories.
Why Navratri Is Celebrated
Navratri celebrates the victory of good over evil and honours the power of Goddess Durga in her nine forms. It is a time for discipline, devotion, and spiritual reflection.
Across India, the festival is marked in unique ways—Garba and Dandiya in Gujarat, Mysuru Dasara in Karnataka, and Durga Puja in West Bengal. The rituals begin with Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) and end with the immersion of the Kalash on the last day.
Navratri 2025: Dos and Don’ts
Dos
1. Follow a sattvic (pure vegetarian) diet with fruits, milk, and light spices.
2. Use Sendha Namak (rock salt) while fasting.
3. Take part in rituals like Akhand Jyoti, Kanya Puja, and devotional prayers.
4. Keep your surroundings clean and stay calm and honest.
5. Donate food or essentials to those in need.
Don’ts
1. Avoid meat, alcohol, onions, and garlic.
2. Do not use heavy spices like garam masala or mustard oil in vrat meals.
3. Don’t move the Kalash once it is placed until Visarjan.
4. Avoid anger, arguments, and dishonesty.
5. Wearing black is considered inauspicious.
Pitru Paksha And Shopping
In 2025, Pitru Paksha falls from (September 7 to September 21) just before Navratri. This period is dedicated to remembering ancestors and offering prayers. Traditionally, buying new clothes or starting new work is avoided during these days. Many devotees choose to shop for Navratri outfits either before Pitru Paksha begins or on the first day of Navratri itself.
