Navaratri (நவராத்திரி)
Nine Nights of the Goddess — Purattasi Shukla Pratipada
About Navaratri
Navaratri (Nine Nights) is a 9-night festival celebrating the Divine Mother in her three forms — Durga (days 1–3), Lakshmi (days 4–6), and Saraswati (days 7–9). In Tamil Nadu, it is marked by the Golu (doll display) tradition.
Significance
Navaratri culminates in Vijayadasami (Dasara) — the day of victory of the goddess over evil, and an auspicious day to begin new learning and ventures.
How the Date is Calculated
Navaratri begins on the 1st Tithi (Pratipada) of the waxing fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Tamil month of Purattasi (September–October).
How It is Celebrated
- Days 1–3: Durga puja
- Days 4–6: Lakshmi puja
- Days 7–9: Saraswati puja
- Day 9: Saraswati Puja / Ayudha Puja
- Day 10: Vijayadasami / Dasara
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Golu in Tamil Navaratri?
Golu is the Tamil tradition of displaying dolls and figurines on stepped platforms (padi) during Navaratri. Families invite friends and neighbours to view the Golu and receive prasad.
When is Navaratri 2026?
Navaratri begins on Shukla Pratipada of the Tamil month of Purattasi, usually in September or October. See the exact 2026 start date in the festival calendar.