How to Celebrate Shardiya Navratri 2025: Rituals, Dates & Devotion

Introduction

Every year, millions of devotees across India and abroad wait eagerly for the arrival of Navratri. The word “Navratri” means nine nights, and during these sacred days, people worship nine forms of Goddess Durga with faith and devotion. Among the four Navratris celebrated in the Hindu calendar, Shardiya Navratri, which falls in the lunar month of Ashwin (September–October), holds the highest spiritual significance.

In 2025, Shardiya Navratri begins on Monday, 22 September 2025 and concludes with Vijayadashami on Thursday, 2 October 2025. This period marks the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and devotion over ignorance.

But Navratri is not just about fasting and rituals, it is also about reconnecting with cultural roots, family bonding, and spiritual renewal. Let’s take a journey into the deeper story, rituals, and astrological meaning of Shardiya Navratri 2025.

Shardiya Navratri 2025 Dates and Astrological Significance

• Start Date: 22 September 2025 (Monday, Pratipada Tithi)
• End Date: 2 October 2025 (Thursday, Vijayadashami)

This Navratri coincides with the onset of Sharad Ritu (autumn season). According to Vedic astrology, planetary positions during Navratri amplify the divine feminine energy, making prayers and rituals more effective. Fasting and meditation during these days are believed to cleanse the body, mind, and soul.

Story and Mythology Behind Navratri

The roots of Navratri lie in the Devi Mahatmya, a scripture that narrates how Goddess Durga fought against demons who threatened peace in the universe. The most famous legend tells of Mahishasura, a demon who gained a boon that no man or god could kill him. With this arrogance, he created havoc across the three worlds. (Buy and read about Devi Mahatmya on Amazon)

To end his tyranny, the supreme trinity : Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh united their powers to create Goddess Durga, an embodiment of Shakti. Riding a lion and armed with divine weapons, she battled Mahishasura for nine nights and finally defeated him on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami.

This is why Navratri is celebrated as the victory of divine feminine power over evil.

Why Shardiya Navratri is Celebrated

• To honour the nine forms of Goddess Durga, also known as Navadurga.
• To celebrate the victory of good over evil symbolized by the slaying of Mahishasura.
• To spiritually cleanse the body and mind through fasting, meditation, and devotion.
• To mark a time of cultural bonding through dance, music, and community celebrations.

Rituals and Customs of Shardiya Navratri 2025

The festival is celebrated with devotion and discipline. Here is a step-by-step outline of the main rituals:

1. Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana):
   The festival begins with the establishment of a sacred Kalash (pot), symbolizing Goddess Durga’s presence.
2. Daily Puja of Navadurga:
   Each day is dedicated to one form of Goddess Durga, accompanied by offerings, flowers, incense, and chanting of mantras.
3. Fasting:
   Devotees observe fasts by consuming fruits, milk, and light meals. Some follow nirjala fast (without food or water) as a form of discipline.
4. Kanya Pujan:
   On Ashtami and Navami, young girls are worshipped as forms of the goddess. They are offered food, gifts, and blessings.
5. Ramlila and Dussehra:
   In many regions, stage plays depicting the life of Lord Rama (Ramlila) are performed. On the tenth day, effigies of Ravana are burned to mark the victory of good.

Day-Wise Navratri 2025 Schedule and Colours

Here is a detailed table of the nine days of Shardiya Navratri 2025:

Regional Variations in Celebration

• North India: Navratri coincides with Ramlila and Dussehra. Devotees fast and worship Goddess Durga in temples.
• West Bengal: Known as Durga Puja, with grand pandals, cultural performances, and immersion of idols.
• Gujarat: Famous for Garba and Dandiya Raas, where people dance all night in devotion.
• South India: Celebrated as Golu or Bommai Kolu, where artistic displays of dolls and deities are arranged.
• Maharashtra: Known for community gatherings, fasting, and offering bhog to the goddess.

Foods, Prasad, and Traditional Dishes

Fasting foods include fruits, sabudana khichdi, kuttu (buckwheat) puris, samak rice, and singhara flour dishes.
Prasad offerings include halwa, puri, chana, kheer, coconut, and sweets. Each day devotees prepare special food items to offer to the goddess.

Dos and Don’ts for Devotees

Dos:

• Begin with Kalash sthapana.
• Try to wear the colour of the day.
• Maintain purity of body and mind.
• Offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the goddess.

Don’ts:

• Avoid alcohol, meat, onion, and garlic.
• Avoid negativity or arguments.

Astrological and Vedic Insights

Shardiya Navratri aligns with seasonal and cosmic changes. In 2025, planetary positions during Ashwin month enhance spiritual vibrations, making meditation and prayers more powerful. It is also considered auspicious for new beginnings, wealth, and prosperity.

Importance for Wealth, Prosperity, Family, and Spiritual Growth

• Brings blessings of wealth (Dhan) and prosperity (Samriddhi).
• Strengthens family unity through shared rituals.
• Removes negativity and promotes positivity.
• Enhances spiritual growth and inner peace.

Conclusion

Shardiya Navratri 2025 is more than just a festival, it is a time for devotion, discipline, and celebration of the divine feminine energy. Whether you fast, visit temples, join Garba nights, or simply light a diya at home, the essence of Navratri lies in connecting with the energy of Goddess Durga and seeking her blessings for strength, prosperity, and happiness.

As we prepare for 22 September to 2 October 2025, may this Navratri bring light, love, and abundance into every home.

Are you planning your Navratri vrat and rituals for 2025? Share your experiences and preparations in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Also read – How to prepare for Navratri 2025: Puja Samagri and Shopping Guide

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About the Author

Manjushaa Sinha

Administrator

Manjushaa Sinha is a certified Tarot reader and astrologer with 10+ years in business leadership. She helps people find clarity and confidence through intuitive readings. Her approach blends practical insight with spiritual guidance to support personal growth, healing, and well-being. She believes in empowering others to trust their inner wisdom. Manjushaa loves connecting spiritual insight with everyday life. She helps people see their path more clearly and supports positive change.

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