New Delhi | October 19, 2026
Maha Navami has brought a calendar puzzle for devotees celebrating Shardiya Navratri 2026. With Navami Tithi spanning October 19 and October 20, many families are asking one important question: When should Kanya Pujan be performed? Dussehra is also scheduled for October 20 in many parts of India, adding to the confusion around the festival calendar. Before preparing offerings for the nine forms of Goddess Durga, devotees should check the local Panchang, the relevant Tithi timings, and their family’s traditional practices.
Why the Dates Matter
The confusion stems from the difference between a Hindu lunar date and the corresponding English calendar date. According to the supplied timings, Ashtami ends at 10:51 AM on October 19, when Navami Tithi begins. Navami continues until approximately 12:50 PM on October 20.
This means the same Tithi can fall across two calendar days. The date followed for Kanya Pujan may depend on local religious traditions and the Panchang used by a family.
When Is Kanya Pujan?
Kanya Pujan, also known as Kanjak Puja, is a key Navratri ritual in which young girls are honored as representations of the divine feminine. Families traditionally offer food, gifts, and prayers as an expression of devotion.
An auspicious time listed for the ritual is 11:43 AM to 12:28 PM on October 19 and October 20. However, these timings should be checked against the Panchang for the specific city before publication or use, as muhurat timings can vary by location.
When Is Dussehra 2026?
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is observed on October 20 in many parts of India. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and is associated with Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and, in many traditions, Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura.
According to the supplied Tithi schedule, Dashami begins at approximately 12:50 PM on October 20 and ends at 2:11 PM on October 21. Local observance can differ according to regional traditions and the rules used to determine the festival day.
The Bottom Line
For devotees, the key question is not simply whether Navami falls on October 19 or 20, but which day and time their local Panchang recommends for Kanya Pujan. Check city-specific timings before finalizing the ritual schedule, and follow established family or regional customs.
