Chaitra Navratri 2026 has commenced today, according to the Hindu calendar, starting from the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. This festival is significant for Hindus as it spans nine days dedicated to worship, spiritual practices, and fulfilling one's aspirations. Each day during Navratri is believed to harness different divine energies; thus, understanding these powers and aligning one's intentions may lead to the fulfillment of desires. Notably, these nine days are also thought to be ideal for resolving issues related to the Navagrahas, or the nine planets in astrology.

This year, each day will be marked by unique ceremonies, with the arrival of the deity being significant, as it is said that the mother will arrive in a palki (palanquin), which astrologers deem auspicious. The farewell of the goddess is planned for an elephant, further adding to the traditional festivities associated with this period. The essence of this festival lies not only in ritualistic practices but also in bringing the community together in reverence and celebration of the divine feminine energy.

As for the Ghatsthapana, or the establishment of the sacred pot, the auspicious muhurat (timing) is set from 6:55 AM to 7:52 AM today. This period is traditionally considered highly favorable for performing the kalash sthapana, which is a vital part of the Navratri celebrations, ensuring that devotees can commence their worship aligned with cosmic energies.