Navratri marks an important period in the Hindu calendar. It holds great significance in the Hindu religion as devotees worship the 9 forms of Goddess Durga over 9 days. The festival is followed by Dussehra on the tenth day, which celebrates the victory of good over evil.
Maha Ashtami is one of the most important days of Navratri. However, this year it is falling across 2 days, October 18 and 19. This has raised questions about when Maha Ashtami will be observed .
In this article, we will clear up the confusion around the date of Maha Ashtami 2026. We will also explore its start and end timings in IST and other important details about the festival.
Maha Ashtami Dates and Key Details
This year, Maha Ashtami Tithi will run from Sunday, October 18, to Monday, October 19, 2026. Below are all the details, including the start and end dates and timings.
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Details
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Main Observance Date
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Monday, October 19, 2026
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Ashtami Tithi Begins
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Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 08:27 AM IST
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Ashtami Tithi Ends
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Monday, October 19, 2026 at 10:51 AM IST
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Sandhi Puja Window (48 mins)
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October 19, 2026 (10:27 AM to 11:15 AM IST)
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Maha Ashtami 2026 Date: October 18 or 19?
Maha Ashtami or Durga Ashtami, will be observed on Monday, October 19, 2026, according to Drik Panchang for Delhi.
The Ashtami will begin on October 18 and continue until the morning of October 19. Since the tithi will be present at sunrise on October 19, the day will be observed as Maha Ashtami during Navratri 2026.
Importance of Maha Ashtami
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Worshipping Goddess Mahagauri: Maha Ashtami is the 8th day of Navratri. This day is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Mahagauri, who is the 8th form of Goddess Durga. She is known for her peaceful nature.
Victory of good over evil: Maha Ashtami is one of the important day for the devotees. The day is dedicated to celebrating the strength of Goddess Durga and symbolises victory of good over evil.
Kanya Puja: Kanya Puja is a very significant ritual that is performed on Maha Ashtami by many people. Young girls are worshipped as Goddess Durga and are offered food and gifts.
Fasting and praying: Many people also fast and pray to Goddess Durga on Maha Ashtami. They pray for their happiness and prosperity.
Regional customs: Maha Ashtami is celebrated differently in different regions of India. In most parts of North India, Kanya Puja is performed. In West Bengal, special rituals of Durga Puja are performed on this day.
Also READ: Navratri Colours 2026: 9 Day-Wise Colours, Dates and Significance