New Delhi:As soon as the name of Navratri comes, colorful clothes, decorated pandals and the tune of Garba start playing before our eyes. The most special tradition of this festival is wearing a different color every day for nine days. Shardiya Navratri 2026 has started from 11th October and will continue till 19th October. The next day, on Tuesday, October 20, Vijayadashami i.e. Dussehra will be celebrated. Every day a form of Goddess Durga is worshiped, which is called Navadurga. A color has also been associated with each form, which reflects their qualities. This year the following order is generally being followed: orange, white, red, navy blue, yellow, green, grey, purple and peacock green. The color list may vary slightly from region to region, so consider this as a general guidance, not a rule.
First three days: orange, white and red
On the first day, October 11, the color orange is worn, which symbolizes energy and new beginnings. This day is of Maa Shailputri, the daughter of Himalaya, who rides on a bull and holds a trident and a lotus in her hand. On this day, Kalash is installed in homes. Orange color is believed to give enthusiasm and courage.
The next day, October 12, is the turn of white, which is associated with peace and simplicity. This day is dedicated to Mother Brahmacharini, who is the embodiment of penance and restraint. She is shown walking barefoot with a garland and kamandal in her hand. Many devotees wear cotton or plain traditional clothes on this day.
On the third day, October 13, red color is worn, which symbolizes strength and enthusiasm. This day is of Maa Chandraghanta, who has an hourglass-shaped crescent moon decorated on her forehead. She appears as a warrior riding on a lion, yet gives peace to the devotees. Red color is also associated with celebration, so the atmosphere looks especially colorful on this day.
Fourth to sixth day: blue, yellow and green
The fourth day, October 14, has significance in the color dark blue, which symbolizes depth and stillness. Mother Kushmanda is worshiped on this day. It is believed that when there was nothing, he created the universe with his light smile. He has eight hands. Blue color is considered to give peace and stability to the mind.
On the fifth day, October 15, yellow is worn, which is the color of happiness and hope. This day is of Mother Skandamata, who is seen holding her son Kartikeya in her lap. It is considered a day of affection and care. This day is very bright with marigold garlands and yellow clothes.
On the sixth day, October 16, it is the turn of green, which symbolizes growth and coordination. On this day, Mother Katyayani is worshipped, who killed the demon named Mahishasura. She rides on a lion and has weapons in many of her hands. The color green adds a sense of balance and new beginnings to their fiery look. This color is very popular among new brides and girls.
Seventh to ninth day: grey, purple and peacock green
On the seventh day, October 17, gray is worn, which represents balance and restraint. This day is of Maa Kalratri, who is considered to be the most terrifying form of Durga. His complexion is dark and his hair is scattered. It is believed that she destroys darkness, ignorance and fear. On this day, people enhance their look by wearing bright scarf or jewelery with grey.
On the eighth day, October 18, Ashtami, purple color is worn, which symbolizes wisdom and dignity. On this day, Mother Mahagauri is worshipped, who is shown in a calm form riding on a white bull. It is believed that she washes away the sins of the devotees. Many families also perform Kanya Puja on Ashtami, hence the atmosphere is both serious and happy.
On the ninth and final day, October 19, peacock green is worn, which is associated with compassion and perfection. This day is of Mother Siddhidatri sitting on a lotus. It is said that she bestows knowledge and accomplishments on those who worship her with true heart. This is the day of expressing gratitude and concluding the puja.
Importance of colors and how to adopt them
These nine colors are not a strict religious rule, and the tradition of each home or area may be different. For most people, these are an easy way to connect with the goddess of the everyday and share the joy of the festival. For this it is not necessary to buy nine new pairs of clothes. Dupatta, bindi, bangles or even a small flower can show the color of the day. What really matters is the puja, the time spent with family and the feeling of new beginnings.