Durga Puja 2026 – Celebrating the Victory of Goddess Durga
Date: 17 October 2026
Full Date
17 October 2026 Morning 6:00 AM – 21 October 2026 Evening 7:00 PM
Muhurat Timings in India
Maha Shashthi & Pran Pratishtha
On October 17, 2026, the auspicious time for Maha Shashthi and Pran Pratishtha marks the formal installation of the goddess in pandals across India.
17 October 2026 Morning 6:00 AM – 17 October 2026 Evening 7:00 PM
Maha Ashtami & Kumari Puja
Maha Ashtami, on October 19, 2026, is significant for special rites including Kumari Puja, worshipping young girls as manifestations of the goddess.
19 October 2026 Morning 6:00 AM – 19 October 2026 Evening 7:00 PM
Vijayadashami & Durga Visarjan
The festival concludes on October 21, 2026, with Vijayadashami celebrations, featuring the immersion of Durga idols symbolizing her return to Mount Kailash.
21 October 2026 Morning 7:00 AM – 21 October 2026 Evening 7:00 PM
Introduction
Durga Puja is an important Hindu festival celebrating the divine feminine energy and goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. It lasts for five days with days dedicated to different forms of Durga and includes worship, fasting, music, dance, and cultural performances across India.
Other Names
Durgotsava, Maha Puja, Sharadiya Puja
Pooja Vidhi
- Start with Ghatasthapana (Kalash installation) to invoke Durga’s presence.
- Perform rituals including offering haldi, kumkum, flowers, and sweets.
- Recite Devi Stotra, Durga Chalisa, and chant mantras.
- Light lamps and offer incense during morning and evening aarti.
- End with Sindoor Khela on Vijayadashami, followed by idol immersion.
Rituals
- Installation of Durga idols (Pran Pratishtha) in pandals marks the start.
- Daily recitation of Durga Saptashati and performance of aarti with lamps and incense.
- Bhajas and cultural programs enliven the evenings.
- Offerings of flowers, fruits, sweets, and special bhogs are made.
- On Vijayadashami, idols are immersed in water bodies in grand processions (Visarjan).
Regional Highlights
- West Bengal hosts elaborate pandals with artistic Durga idols and cultural programs.
- Eastern states like Assam and Odisha celebrate with traditional music, dance, and community feasts.
- North Indian regions observe Durga Puja with fasting, aarti, and devotional singing.
- In South India, Navratri overlaps with Durga Puja, combining rituals across regions.
History
Durga Puja mythology centers on the tale of Durga defeating the demon Mahishasura after fierce battle, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the power of feminine divinity. Historic references in scriptures and folklore celebrate Durga’s role as protector and warrior goddess.
Additional Information
- Durga Puja represents the victory of good over evil and the feminine divine power.
- It fosters community bonding, artistic expression, and spiritual devotion.
- The festival’s rituals and dates may vary according to regional calendars and traditions.