Shardiya Navratri begins with worship of Maa Shailputri

The opening day of Shardiya Navratri 2026 is observed with prayers and ritualistic worship of Maa Shailputri, the first manifestation of Goddess Durga. According to Hindu tradition, Shailputri—literally meaning 'daughter of the mountains'—represents the primordial energy and is venerated on this auspicious occasion.

Followers of the festival are advised to perform elaborate pujas and rituals in accordance with prescribed customs and practices. After conducting the worship ceremony with proper methodology and devotional offerings, devotees traditionally perform the aarti, or ritual of worship by waving lamps before the deity.

The nine-day Navratri festival, observed twice annually, holds significant spiritual importance in Hindu culture. The Shardiya variant, celebrated in autumn, commemorates the triumph of good over evil and the victory of Goddess Durga over demonic forces. Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, with the first day establishing the foundation for the festival's spiritual journey.

Devotion during Navratri is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment to households. The ritual observance of aarti, performed after proper worship procedures, forms an integral part of daily celebrations throughout the nine-day period.