Ashadha Gupt Navratri 2026 Observed Across India

Ashadha Gupt Navratri, a secret nine‑day Hindu observance, concluded on 23 July 2026 with the Navami (ninth) day. The period began on 15 July 2026 and involves worship of ten Mahavidyas—forms of the goddess Durga—rather than the nine usual Navratri deities. Religious practitioners are advised to perform special puja on the Navami, including setting up a Durga idol or picture, reciting specific chants, and offering traditional foods.

Guidelines recommend auspicious timing windows for rituals, such as early‑morning (04:15‑04:56 IST), midday (12:00‑12:55 IST), and evening (07:18‑08:20 IST). Many devotees also conduct a “kanya puja,” inviting girls aged 2‑10 and a boy to receive blessings and offerings. The observance is presented as a way to gain the benefits of the nine‑day fast even if earlier rituals were missed, with the belief that sincere worship on Navami can yield the fast’s fruits.