Durga Puja 2026 falls from 18 to 21 October (Shashthi to Navami). Whether you are in Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, or Delhi, here is what to wear across the five days — with colour codes, silhouette suggestions, and what to actually avoid.
What are the Durga Puja 2026 dates?
Durga Puja 2026 dates: Mahalaya is on 14 October, Shashthi on 18 October, Saptami on 19 October, Ashtami on 20 October, Navami on 21 October, and Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra) on 22 October 2026.
What colour to wear on Shashthi (Day 1 of Durga Puja, 18 October)?
Shashthi 2026 falls on 18 October. The associated Navratri colour for this day is Red. For Durga Puja specifically, Shashthi is when the celebrations begin in earnest. Many people wear traditional colours like red, yellow, or white on Shashthi. A cotton tunic set or kurti in red or warm tones works for the pandal visit.
What colour to wear on Saptami (19 October)?
Saptami (19 October) corresponds to Royal Blue in the Navratri colour sequence. At Durga Puja, Saptami is when the idol is opened to visitors. Wear something festive but comfortable — you will be standing and walking. A co-ord set or tunic in deep blue, indigo, or royal blue works well.
What colour to wear on Ashtami (20 October)?
Ashtami (20 October) is Pink in the Navratri colour sequence and is the most celebrated day of Durga Puja. Ashtami is when the main puja and dhunuchi naach happens. Red and pink are both traditionally auspicious for Ashtami. Many women wear red, pink, or white sarees and suits on this day. A handcrafted tunic set in rose, blush, or deep pink is a practical, festive choice.
What colour to wear on Navami (21 October)?
Navami (21 October) is Purple. It is the last full day of Durga Puja before the visarjan. Violet, lavender, or deep purple all work. Navami calls for a complete festive look since it is the farewell day.
What to wear on Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra, 22 October 2026)?
Vijaya Dashami (22 October 2026) traditionally features white with a red border, especially for women who participate in sindoor khela (the custom of applying vermillion). A simple cotton or chanderi kurta in white with red or gold accents is the classic choice.
What are the best fabrics for Durga Puja outfits?
For Durga Puja 2026, the best fabrics are cotton, cotton silk, and chanderi — they breathe well in October heat and drape beautifully. Avoid heavy silk or synthetic fabric for pandal-hopping, where you will be walking long distances. A well-made tunic set or co-ord in cotton or chanderi is more comfortable and still looks festive.
What to wear for Durga Puja if not wearing a saree?
If not wearing a saree, a kurti set, tunic set with palazzo or straight pants, or a festive co-ord set all work for Durga Puja. Handcrafted sets in chanderi, cotton silk, or embroidered cotton are appropriate for puja visits and are easier to manage while travelling between pandals. Browse HOH festive sets — made to order and handcrafted in India.
What is the Dasara colour 2026 in Karnataka?
In Karnataka, Dasara (Mysore Dasara) is celebrated across the same Navratri period — 13 to 21 October 2026, with the royal procession on Vijayadashami (22 October). The colour sequence follows the Navratri chart: Yellow, Green, Grey, Orange, White, Red, Royal Blue, Pink, Purple across the nine days.
What are the Dussehra colours 2026?
Dussehra 2026 falls on 22 October. There is no single prescribed colour for Dussehra itself, but yellow, saffron, and white are considered auspicious. Red is also traditional, particularly in eastern India. Many people wear the previous day's Navami colour (purple) or choose a fresh festive look for Vijayadashami.
All Haus of Handmade pieces are made to order and handcrafted in India. For Durga Puja 2026 (18 to 21 October), order at least 10 to 12 days in advance to allow for making time.