Navratri is celebrated four times a year, with Chaitra Navratri and Sharadiya Navratri being the most significant. 
This Hindu festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and is considered an ideal time for spiritual devotion and penance. Chaitra Navratri marks the worship of the nine divine forms of Goddess Durga and begins on the Pratipada Tithi (first day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra.
Chaitra Navratri 2025: 8 or 9 Days?
According to the Hindu calendar, Chaitra Navratri 2025 will begin on March 30 (Sunday) and conclude on April 6 (Sunday). This year, instead of 9 days, Navratri will be only 8 days long, as Ashtami (eighth day) and Navami (ninth day) will fall on the same day due to a change in lunar dates.
Kalash Sthapana (Ghatasthapana) Puja Samagri (Materials Required)
For the traditional Kalash Sthapana, you will need the following items:
- Earthen pot and soil
- Barley seeds
- Copper pot (Kalash)
- Roli (red sacred powder) and Mouli (sacred thread)
- Gangajal (holy water)
- Red cloth for seating
- Water-filled Kalash
- Cardamom, cloves, camphor
- Whole betel nut, raw rice, and coins
- Five Ashoka or mango leaves
- Coconut, chunri (red cloth), and sindoor (vermilion)
- Fruits, flowers, garlands, and a shringar kit
Puja Vidhi (Worship Rituals)
- Wake up early, take a bath, and clean the home temple.
- Perform the Abhishek (holy bath) of the Goddess with Gangajal.
- Offer Akshat (rice), red sandalwood, chunri (scarf), and red flowers.
- Prepare and offer puri, chana, and kheer/halwa as prasad.
- Light an incense stick and a ghee lamp in the temple.
- Recite Durga Saptashati and Durga Chalisa.
- Conduct a havan (fire ritual) for divine blessings.
- Place camphor on a betel leaf and perform Aarti.
- Conclude by praying for forgiveness and seeking blessings.
Sacred Mantras for Navratri
🔸 “Om Durgay Namah”
🔸 “Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche”
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on religious beliefs and traditional practices. Please consult an expert for detailed guidance.