Ashtami Navami Tithi 2026: Do Both Festivals Fall on the Same Day? Clear the October 19-20 Confusion

Important Dates and Timings

October 17 marks the seventh day of Sharadiya Navratri. As the festival approaches its final days, devotees are preparing for Maha Ashtami, Mahanavami, Kanya Pujan and the conclusion of their nine-day fasts.

Confusion Over the Dates

This year, devotees are confused about whether Maha Ashtami and Mahanavami should be observed on October 19 or October 20. The confusion arises because both tithis fall on October 19 at different times.

Maha Ashtami

According to the Panchang timings provided, Ashtami Tithi begins at 8:27 AM on October 18 and ends at 10:51 AM on October 19. Maha Ashtami will be observed on Monday, October 19, according to the supplied Udaya Tithi calculation.

Kanya Pujan Muhurat

Devotees planning Ashtami Kanya Pujan can note the following muhurat mentioned in the supplied details: Ashtami: 9:06 AM to 10:35 AM, Navami: 11:41 AM to 12:28 PM

Mahanavami

Navami Tithi begins at 10:51 AM on October 19 and ends at 12:50 PM on October 20, according to the supplied timings. Since the tithi spans two calendar dates, devotees should follow their local Panchang to determine the appropriate day for Navami rituals and Kanya Pujan.

Dussehra

Vijayadashami, popularly known as Dussehra, is listed for Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, commemorating Lord Ramas victory over Ravana and Goddess Durgas triumph over Mahishasura.

Kanya Pujan Importance

Kanya Pujan is an important Navratri ritual in which young girls, traditionally aged two to ten, are worshipped as manifestations of Goddess Durgas nine forms. Many families also invite a young boy, regarded in some traditions as Bhairav or Langura.

Kanya Pujan

Welcome the girls respectfully. Wash their feet and apply a tilak of kumkum and akshat. Serve halwa, puri and black chickpeas as prasad. Offer gifts, dakshina or a red chunri according to your means.

When To Break Navratri Fast?

Devotees observing the nine-day Navratri fast commonly break their fast after completing Kanya Pujan on Ashtami or Navami. The exact paran time depends on the chosen ritual, tithi and local Panchang. Confirm the appropriate timing before concluding your fast.