Shardiya Navratri 2024: Will Navratri be celebrated for eight or nine days?

Navratri 2024 starts on October 3 and runs until October 12. Durga Puja begins on October 9, celebrated especially in West Bengal, and the festival concludes with Dussehra, marking the victory of good over evil.

One of India's most jubilant festivals, Navratri, is just around the corner. However, due to the differences between the widely used Gregorian calendar and the Hindu calendar, there can be confusion regarding the dates and timings of the Navratri celebrations. As we look forward to Durga Puja 2024, it's essential to clarify whether Shardiya Navratri will last for eight or nine days.

DATES AND CELEBRATIONS

This year, Mahalaya Amavasya, marking the invitation of Goddess Durga to Earth, will take place on October 2.

Navratri will commence the following day, October 3, and the Shardiya Navratri festivities will conclude on October 12.

DURATION OF SHARDIYA NAVRATRI

In 2024, Shardiya Navratri will be celebrated for a full nine days, starting on October 3 and ending on October 12.

While the entire Navratri festival spans these nine days, Durga Puja will begin during the last four days, starting on October 9.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE NAVRATRI FESTIVAL

Navratri is one of the most revered celebrations among Hindus, characterised by a nine-day fasting period.

The festival carries social significance as it brings together millions of devotees, relatives, and family members in a spirit of celebration.

Additionally, Durga Puja 2024 holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for the community.