When is the 2024 Chaitra Navratri? Understand the importance, muhurat, start and finish dates, and puja practices

Hindus celebrate the goddess Durga for nine days during Chaitra Navratri. From April 9 to April 17, 2024, India and other countries throughout the globe set off on this spiritual trip. Every day is commemorated by ceremonies, prayers, and fasting in honour of a particular manifestation of the goddess.

During Chaitra Navratri, devotees adore Maa Durga and her nine glorious forms. On the last day, however, they commemorate Rama Navami. It commemorates Lord Rama’s birth. Devotees conduct aarti and recite hymns in homes and temples, decked with colourful decorations, in an effort to invoke heavenly favour and blessings.
2024’s Chaitra Navratri: Dates of start and finish
The first day of Pratipada Tithi is Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

The ninth day of Navami Tithi is Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

Chaitra Navratri 2024: Ghatasthapana Muhurat
Ghatasthapana, the custom of setting up the Kalash (pot) to signify the start of Navratri, is particularly important. The lucky time for Ghatasthapana in 2024 is Tuesday, April 9, from 6:11 AM to 10:23 AM.

Chaitra Navratri: Importance in 2024
During Chaitra Navratri, a distinct form of Goddess Durga is honoured with special pujas and sacrifices on each day. Adherents follow vegetarian diets, fast from some foods, and refrain from other foods.

Shailputri (Day 1): the goddess of purity and tenderness.

Day 2’s Brahmacharini is a sign for self-control and spiritual understanding.

Day 3’s Chandraghanta is a symbol for bravery and inner power.

Day 4 is Kushmanda, which denotes wealth and excellent health.

Day 5’s Skandamata is a symbol of the strength and love of mothers.

Day 6’s Katyayani is a courageous and beautiful representation.

Day 7 is Kalratri, which represents the annihilation of ignorance.

Mahagauri (Day 8): a symbol of tranquilly and calm.

Day 9: Siddhidatri, representing the ultimate bestower of prosperity.

Rama Navami, which commemorates the birth of Lord Rama, falls on the ninth day of Chaitra Navratri.

Chaitra Navratri 2024: Rituals for the puja
With prayers and ceremonies dedicated to each facet of the Goddess, followers give particular attention to each day. Among the customary observances are:

Kalash Sthapana: This celebration is initiated ceremoniously by setting a Kalash, decorated with mango leaves and filled with holy water.

Daily Pujas: Throughout the nine days, devotees worship, chant, and sing songs to the many incarnations of Durga.

Fasting: During Navratri, many devotees maintain either full or partial fasts, ingesting only certain foods such as vegetables, fruits, tapioca pearls, or sabudana.

Jagran: During certain days of Navratri, prayers and devotional singing last all night.