World · India Bureau
Navratri 2026 to conclude on October 20 with Dussehra celebrations
According to the Hindu calendar, Shardiya Navratri will end on October 20, 2026, with the observance of Vijayadashami or Dussehra. Devotees will perform the ritual of Paran on the morning of October 20.
LSN India ·
Shardiya Navratri, one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, will span from October 11 to October 20 in 2026. The nine-day festival celebrating the divine feminine energy concludes with Vijayadashami, commonly known as Dussehra, marking the victory of good over evil.
According to Hindu calendar calculations, the final day of the festival will fall on October 20, 2026. On this auspicious day, devotees will observe Paran, the ritualistic breaking of fast that concludes the Navratri period. The Paran ceremony typically takes place in the morning hours and is considered an important spiritual practice among believers.
The festival encompasses nine days dedicated to worshipping different forms of Goddess Durga, with each day holding specific significance. The Ashtami (eighth day) and Navami (ninth day) are particularly important observances within the Navratri cycle. With the completion of Paran on October 20, devotees believe the goddess bids farewell to her devotees until the next year's celebrations.
Dussehra, marking the culmination of Navratri, is celebrated across India with various regional traditions and customs. The festival holds deep cultural and religious significance for millions of Hindus nationwide.