The important nine-day Hindu holiday of Chaitra Navratri, also called Vasant Navratri, is devoted to celebrating the Goddess Durga’s nine guises. In 2025, Rama Navami, which commemorates the birth of Lord Rama, will mark the end of Chaitra Navratri, which will begin on March 30 and end on April 7.
What Chaitra Navratri Means
In many parts of India, this celebration, which represents fresh starts and spiritual renewal, ushers in the Hindu New Year. Navadurga, the collective name for the various forms of Goddess Durga, is worshipped every day. In order to obtain the Goddess’ blessings for wealth and wellbeing, devotees participate in rituals, prayers, and fasting.
Worship Every Day and Related Colors
Every day during Chaitra Navratri is linked to a particular manifestation of Goddess Durga and a meaningful color. As a sign of their dedication, devotees frequently dress in clothing that reflects the hue of the day. The following is the schedule for 2025:
Day 1 (March 30): Shailputri Puja – Orange
Day 2 (March 31): Brahmacharini Puja – White
Day 3 (April 1): Chandraghanta Puja – Red
Day 4 (April 2): Kushmanda Puja – Royal Blue
Day 5 (April 3): Skandamata Puja – Yellow
Day 6 (April 4): Katyayani Puja – Green
Day 7 (April 5): Kalaratri Puja – Grey
Day 8 (April 6): Mahagauri Puja & Kanya Pujan – Purple
Day 9 (April 7): Siddhidatri Puja & Ram Navami – Peacock Green
Important Customs and Traditions
Navratri begins with the Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) rite. The installation of a sacred pot (kalash) represents the Goddess’s presence. In 2025, the period from 6:13 AM to 10:21 AM on March 30 is considered favorable for Ghatasthapana.
Prayers and Fasting: During fasts, which can last anywhere from one day to nine days, devotees refrain from eating particular foods and concentrate on their spiritual activities. Religious texts are frequently recited and prayers are offered daily.
Kanya Pujan: As a sign of reverence and devotion, young girls who symbolize the Goddess’ forms are worshipped and given special meals and gifts on Ashtami (the eighth day).
An Astrological Viewpoint
Astrologers predict that Goddess Durga will appear in 2025 atop an elephant, which is very auspicious and represents wealth and good fortune for the nation.
