Chaitra Navratri, which coincides with the Hindu New Year, will commence this year on Sunday, March 30, 2025, 
under the Revati Nakshatra and Aindra Yoga. Every year, Chaitra Navratri begins on the Pratipada Tithi (first day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar.
This year, Maha Ashtami will be observed on April 5, followed by Maha Navami on April 6, during which the recitation of sacred texts (path), the fire ritual (havan), and the Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls symbolizing the divine feminine) will take place. On April 7, devotees will bid farewell to Goddess Durga as Navratri concludes.
As this year’s Chaitra Navratri starts on a Sunday, it is believed that Goddess Durga will arrive on an elephant, which is considered an auspicious sign indicating prosperity and peace. Throughout Navratri, devotees observe fasting, rituals, and prayers dedicated to Goddess Durga.
When to Perform Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana)?
Date and Auspicious Time:
The grand festival of Chaitra Navratri 2025 will commence on March 30 (Sunday) under the Revati Nakshatra and Aindra Yoga. The celebration of the Hindu New Year will begin with the Kalash Sthapana (establishment of the sacred urn) and Dhwajarohaṇ (hoisting of the sacred flag).
According to the Banarasi Panchang (Vedic Hindu calendar), the most auspicious time for Kalash Sthapana is between 6:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Essential Items for Kalash Sthapana:
To perform Kalash Sthapana, devotees will need the following items:
- Clay pot filled with soil and barley (jau) seeds
- A water-filled Kalash (sacred pitcher)
- Sacred red thread (Mouli)
- Cardamom, cloves, camphor, vermillion (Roli-Sindoor)
- Whole betel nut (Supari), uncooked rice, and coins
- Five Ashoka or mango leaves
- Coconut wrapped in red cloth (Chunari)
- Fruits, flowers, garland, and a makeup kit (Shringar Pitari) for the Goddess
Worship of Goddess Shailputri on the First Day
On the first day of Chaitra Navratri, devotees worship Goddess Shailputri, the first form of Navadurga. This day is considered highly auspicious for:
- Tika (sacred marking on the forehead)
- Fasting (Vrat)
- Special prayers and rituals for gaining knowledge and wisdom (Vidya Prapti Anushthan)
Chaitra Navratri Festival Schedule 2025:
- Maha Ashtami (April 5, 2025): Observance of the eighth day of Navratri, with special prayers and fasting.
- Maha Navami (April 6, 2025): Concluding rituals, including fire sacrifices and Kanya Pujan.
- Vijayadashami (April 7, 2025): The festival culminates with the symbolic farewell to Goddess Durga.
Since this year’s Navratri begins on a Sunday, Goddess Durga is believed to arrive on an elephant, symbolizing divine blessings, prosperity, and a fruitful year ahead.
During these sacred nine days, devotees will worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, seek her blessings for strength and protection, and celebrate the divine feminine energy that sustains the universe.