Shardiya Navratri (Day 1) — Date, Vidhi & Timing

Significance

Nine nights of Durga worship culminating in Vijayadashami victory.

Niyam (rules)

1. Many families observe partial or full fast for nine days with satvik meals.
2. Avoid alcohol, meat, onion, and garlic during Navratri.
3. Wear clean clothes and maintain daily Devi puja with lamp and aarti.

Vidhi (how to observe)

1. Install ghata or Devi murti on Pratipada after kalash sthapana.
2. Light akhand or daily lamp; offer red flowers, kumkum, and seasonal fruit.
3. Recite Durga Saptashati, Devi Kavach, or family stotras each day.
4. Perform aarti morning and evening; maintain fasting rules through Navami.
5. On Vijayadashami, conclude with Devi visarjan and exchange blessings.