Navratri Day 1 Update: Sharad Navratri 2026 has finally started today (October 11), bringing nine days of devotion, fasting and celebrations dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. Devotees observing the first fast are worshipping Maa Shailputri, the first form of Navdurga, and seeking her blessings for happiness, strength, and prosperity.
Devotees are checking the Navratri 2026 Day 1 Ghatasthapana Muhurat timings, today’s colour, and the significance of Maa Shailputri worship on the first day. Here’s all you need to know.
NAVRATRI DAY 1: WHY IS MAA SHAILPUTRI WORSHIPPED TODAY?
For those unaware, Maa Shailputri, the first form of Goddess Durga, is worshipped on Day 1. Her name means ‘daughter of the mountain’, as she is believed to be the daughter of Himavan, the king of the mountains. She is also associated with Goddess Parvati.
Maa Shailputri is usually shown riding Nandi, with a trident in one hand and a lotus in the other. Her worship marks the beginning of the Navadurga rituals and holds special importance as devotees start the nine-day Navratri festival by seeking her blessings.
NAVRATRI 2026 GHATASTHAPANA MUHURAT TIMINGS TODAY (OCTOBER 11)
Ghatasthapana is an important ritual that marks the beginning of Sharad Navratri. During the ceremony, devotees establish a sacred Kalash and invoke Goddess Shakti before starting the nine-day festival.
In New Delhi, the Ghatasthapana Muhurat on October 11, 2026, is from 6:19 AM to 10:12 AM, lasting approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes. Devotees can also observe the Abhijit Muhurat from 11:44 AM to 12:31 PM.
Since auspicious timings may differ from one city to another, devotees should check their local Panchang for the correct Ghatasthapana Muhurat.
NAVRATRI DAY 1: WHAT IS TODAY’S COLOR AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE?
The Navratri Day 1 colour for October 11, 2026, is orange. The colour is associated with energy, enthusiasm, warmth, and positivity, making it the perfect choice for the start of the nine-day festival. Devotees celebrate the occasion with prayers, puja rituals, Garba, Dandiya and other festive activities.
Orange is also linked with optimism and auspicious beginnings. Many devotees wear orange on the first day to mark the start of their prayers and celebrations. However, wearing a particular colour is a tradition, not a requirement. Devotion and participation in the festival are not dependent on the colour one chooses to wear.
Here’s wishing everyone a very happy Navratri! May Maa Shailputri bless you with everything you want.