Varanasi: Navratri, one of the most revered festivals in Sanatan Dharma, commenced on Monday, 22 September 2025, with grand devotion and rituals across the country.

The first day is dedicated to Goddess Shailputri, symbolising purity, strength, and divine energy.

According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious time for Ashwina Ghatasthapana, marking the beginning of the nine-day festival, falls between 6.11 am and 7.52 am, with the Abhijit muhurat from 11.51 am to 12.39 pm.

The Pratipada tithi began at 1.23 am on September 22 and will conclude at 2.55 am on September 23, while the Kanya lagna coincides with the morning Ghatasthapana muhurat.

Puja Vidhi and Rituals

Devotees performed Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) at their homes, considered the most vital ritual of the day.

A sacred Kalash, filled with Ganga Jal, coins, supari, akshat (turmeric rice) and adorned with five mango leaves and a coconut, was installed on a bed of mud and navadhanya (nine grains).

An oil lamp was lit nearby, symbolising divine energy, and kept burning throughout the nine days.

Offerings of flowers, incense, fruits, sweets, and ghee-based bhog were made to Maa Shailputri, accompanied by devotional chants and hymns seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

Goddess Shailputri

Known as the daughter of the mountains, Goddess Shailputri rides a bull and carries a trident and a lotus. Worshipping her on Day 1 is believed to strengthen the mind, dispel negativity, and pave the way for both spiritual and material progress.

Navratri Day 1 Colour

The colour for the first day is yellow, representing joy, energy, and optimism. Devotees across India dressed in yellow attire, aligning their prayers with the day’s divine vibrations.

As Navratri unfolds, the devotion to Goddess Shailputri sets a spiritual tone for nine days of celebrations filled with faith, rituals, and vibrant traditions.