Chaitra Navratri 2025: 29 or 30 March, Know The Correct Date, Key Rituals, and Important Do’s and Don’ts

Chaitra Navratri 2024: Chaitra Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrating the nine forms of Durga also known as the Navdugra. This year the fasting festival will commence on 30 March and conclude on 6 April 2025. As per Hindu scriptures, Lord Brahma created the universe on this day.  

Chaitra Navaratri’s Pratipada Tithi will begin on March 29 at 4:27 PM and end on March 30 at 12:49 PM. The timing for Ghat Sthapana will be on 30 March from 6:01 AM to 10:02 AM. The Abhijit Muhurat is from 12:01 PM to 12:50 PM. 

With the pratipada Tithi falling on a Sunday, the Goddess will arrive on an elephant, symbolizing prosperity in agriculture, economy, and domesticity. The Goddess is believed to depart on a buffalo. 

Key rituals of the Navratri include Ghat Sthapana, Maha Ashtami, and  Maha Navami.   

Strict rules are followed during the nine days of the festival with a set of do’s and don’ts.

• Use rock salt instead of regular salt.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages, meat, or tamasic food. 
• Recite Durga Saptashati for protection from Rahu-Ketu dosha.