In 2026, the Sharadiya Navratri festival features a unique overlap of Ashtami and Navami tithis on October 19. According to the Hindu calendar, Ashtami will last until 10:51 am that day, after which Navami will begin. This overlap has prompted questions among devotees about the proper timing for Kanya Poojan, performing the Havan, and the best moment to break the Navratri fast.
Ashtami-Navami Timing on October 19
On Monday, October 19, Ashtami tithi will be observed until 10:51 am, followed by Navami tithi which will continue until 12:50 pm on October 20. Devotees observing Kanya Poojan on the Ashtami day should complete the ritual before Ashtami ends. If they prefer to perform it on Navami, they can do so once Navami begins. The festival of Vijayadashami or Dussehra will be celebrated the day after, on October 20, 2026.
The dual presence of these tithis on the same day is uncommon and has caused some uncertainty regarding scheduling. Traditionally, Ashtami holds significant importance due to the worship of Goddess Durga, which makes the timing of rituals like Kanya Poojan crucial for devotees wishing to follow customs precisely.
Order of Rituals: Havan and Kanya Poojan
Both Havan and Kanya Poojan are vital components of Navratri worship. Religious tradition recommends conducting the Havan first, including the sacred fire ritual and its conclusion with the final offering known as Purnahuti. Following this, the Kanya Poojan is performed respectfully, where young girls are seated, their feet washed, and a tilak is applied. They are then offered prasad consisting of halwa, puri, and black chickpeas, and finally, given Dakshina or gifts as a mark of respect.
After these ceremonies, devotees proceed to break their Navratri fast, known as Vrat Parana. Completing these rituals in the correct order is considered auspicious and preserves the sanctity of the observances.
Specific Timings and Advice for Devotees
- Kanya Poojan on Ashtami: Must be completed before 10:51 am on October 19.
- Kanya Poojan on Navami: Can be performed anytime after 10:51 am on the same day.
Navratri fast breaking times, according to the Panchang, are as follows:
- Ashtami Vrat Parana: October 19 after 6:53 am or 7:53 am.
- Navami Vrat Parana: October 20 after 9:35 am.
Devotees are advised to confirm these timings with their local Panchang or astrologer to ensure accuracy before performing rituals. Offering prasad to Goddess Durga before opening the fast enhances the spiritual significance.
This year, as the Ashtami and Navami tithis coincide for part of the day, careful attention to the timetable will help devotees observe Navratri rituals properly and respectfully. It is vital to follow the tradition’s sequence and timing for Kanya Poojan and Havan for maximum religious merit.
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on religious beliefs and general guidelines. TV9 Bharatvarsh does not confirm its authenticity.
