Navratri 2026 begins October 11: daily colour guide for all nine days
Shardiya Navratri runs October 11 to 19, 2026, with a specific colour to wear each day, followed by Vijayadashami on October 20.
After Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations conclude, preparations are underway for Navratri, the nine-day festival marking the arrival of the goddess. The festival involves worship, fasting, garba and wearing a different colour of clothing each day, and is a favourite for many every year.
This year, Shardiya Navratri begins on Sunday, October 11, 2026, and ends on Monday, October 19. The following day, October 20, will be celebrated as Vijayadashami, or Dussehra. Navratri falling in the month of Ashwin is called Shardiya Navratri. The nine-day festival is dedicated to nine different forms of the goddess Durga, with one form worshipped each day. During these nine days, devotees observe fasts, perform Ghat Sthapana and worship the goddess with devotion. It is believed that worshipping the goddess during these nine days brings strength, knowledge and wealth.
The nine colours are a major focus of Navratri. Each day has a designated colour, and wearing that colour is believed to bring the goddess's blessing. This is considered to have spiritual significance beyond fashion, as each colour is said to represent one of the goddess's qualities.
On the first day, Sunday, October 11, Ghat Sthapana takes place and the colour is orange, symbolising enthusiasm and positive energy. On the second day, Monday, October 12, the colour is white, representing peace and purity. On the third day, Tuesday, October 13, the colour is red, described as the colour of strength and love and the goddess's favourite colour.
On the fourth day, Wednesday, October 14, the colour is royal blue, representing prosperity and confidence. On the fifth day, Thursday, October 15, the colour is yellow, symbolising joy and knowledge. On the sixth day, Friday, October 16, the colour is green, symbolising nature and new beginnings.
On the seventh day, Saturday, October 17, the colour is grey, described as the colour of balance and calm. On the eighth day, Durga Ashtami, Sunday, October 18, the colour is purple, symbolising prosperity and power. On the ninth and final day, Monday, October 19, the colour is peacock green, marking the end of Navratri.
This completes the full list of the nine colours for the nine days of this year's Navratri. Those planning their outfits for each day can note these dates and colours in advance.
