Navratri 2024: Dates, Times, Muhurat, and Significance – Everything You Need to Know
Navratri 2024: Dates, Times, Muhurat, and Significance – Everything You Need to Know
Shardiya Navratri, one of the most important Hindu festivals, celebrates the nine forms of Goddess Durga over nine days. In 2024, it will be observed from October 3 to October 12, concluding with Dussehra, which signifies the victory of good over evil.
This vibrant festival falls during the lunar month of Ashwin and is the most prominent among the four Navratris celebrated throughout the year. The other three are Magha (winter), Chaitra (spring), and Ashadha (monsoon). Shardiya Navratri, also called Navratri, is widely celebrated across India and is dedicated to worshipping the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
Navratri 2024 Date and Time:
In 2024, Shardiya Navratri begins on Thursday, October 3, and concludes on Saturday, October 12. The festival includes rituals such as fasting, night vigils, kanya puja, and havan, believed to bring blessings from the Goddess as she descends to Earth.
The auspicious Ghatasthapana Muhurat is on October 3, between 6:30 AM and 7:31 AM, while the Abhijit Muhurat will be observed from 12:03 PM to 12:51 PM on the same day. The festival kicks off with Ghatasthapana and Shailputri Puja on October 3, culminating with Dussehra celebrations on October 12.
Significance of Shardiya Navratri:
Shardiya Navratri marks the sacred period during which Goddess Durga battled the demon Mahishasura for nine days, ultimately defeating him on the tenth day. This victory symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The final day, Dussehra, also celebrates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, marking the successful rescue of Goddess Sita.
Following Navratri, Diwali, the festival of lights, will be celebrated on October 31. This day, also known as Kartik Amavasya or Naraka Chaturdashi, is believed to be when Goddess Lakshmi descends to Earth, making it an auspicious time for Diwali puja after sunset.
