When is Navratri 2026?
Navratri 2026 falls from Tuesday, 15 September to Wednesday, 23 September 2026. The festival spans nine nights dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami) follows on Thursday, 24 September 2026. Note: Navratri dates follow the Hindu lunar calendar (Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month) and are confirmed annually by the Panchang. Always verify with your local temple or official Hindu calendar closer to the date.
What are the 9 colours of Navratri 2026?
Each day of Navratri has a traditionally associated colour. For Navratri 2026 (15–23 September): Day 1 (15 Sep) — Royal Blue; Day 2 (16 Sep) — Yellow; Day 3 (17 Sep) — Green; Day 4 (18 Sep) — Grey; Day 5 (19 Sep) — Orange; Day 6 (20 Sep) — White; Day 7 (21 Sep) — Red; Day 8 (22 Sep) — Sky Blue; Day 9 (23 Sep) — Pink. These colours are widely followed in Gujarat and Maharashtra garba celebrations, though variations exist by region and community.
What should women wear on each day of Navratri?
The traditional outfit for Navratri is the chaniya choli — a flared skirt (chaniya or ghagra), a fitted blouse (choli), and a dupatta. For each day, try to match your chaniya choli or ethnic outfit to the day's designated colour. Many women also wear co-ord sets and printed kurta sets in the day's colour for daytime celebrations. Haus of Handmade offers hand block print kurta sets and co-ord sets in festive colours that can be dressed up for Navratri celebrations without requiring traditional chaniya choli.
What is the difference between Garba and Dandiya?
Garba and dandiya are both Navratri folk dances but differ in form. Garba is performed in a circle around a lamp or image of the goddess, using hand gestures and graceful footwork — no props are required. Dandiya Raas is performed with decorated sticks (dandiyas) and involves partners striking sticks together in rhythm. Garba is typically performed on the earlier nights of Navratri; dandiya becomes more prominent in the latter nights. Both dances originate from Gujarat but are now celebrated across India.
What do men wear for Navratri garba?
Men traditionally wear a kediyum (a short embroidered top) with a dhoti or kediyu-style pants, along with a safa (turban) in Gujarat. In contemporary celebrations, many men opt for kurta-pyjama sets or bandhani print kurtas paired with churidar or straight pants. Accessorising with a turban or mojri footwear elevates the look. The outfit is typically matched to the day's Navratri colour. For a ready-made option, handcrafted kurtas from Haus of Handmade in festive prints are a versatile choice for men attending garba events.
Is chaniya choli mandatory for garba?
No, chaniya choli is traditional but not mandatory for garba. Many garba venues welcome any ethnic or festive Indian wear. Women commonly attend in lehengas, salwar suits, sarees (draped for ease of movement), and even well-styled kurta sets or co-ord sets. The key requirements are: the outfit should be festive in spirit, reasonably comfortable to dance in, and ideally in the day's Navratri colour. Haus of Handmade's handcrafted co-ord sets and printed kurta sets are practical, elegant alternatives to chaniya choli for garba.
Where can I find authentic Navratri outfits online?
Authentic Navratri outfits are available on several platforms. For traditional chaniya cholis, platforms like Utsav Fashion, Nalli, and regional Gujarati boutiques are reliable. For handcrafted festive alternatives, Haus of Handmade offers hand block print kurta sets, co-ord sets, and festive separates crafted by artisans — a meaningful alternative to machine-made chaniya cholis. Always order at least 3–4 weeks before Navratri to allow for delivery or made-to-order production time.
What shoes are ideal for garba?
Comfortable footwear is essential for garba since the dance involves hours of movement. Traditional options include mojri (embroidered juttis), kolhapuri sandals, or any flat ethnic footwear. Heels are strongly discouraged — they cause fatigue, affect balance, and damage dance floors. Many garba venues in community halls require footwear removal. Opt for juttis or embroidered flats that align with your outfit colour and allow you to dance freely for extended periods.
What jewellery is worn with Navratri outfits?
Navratri jewellery traditionally consists of oxidised silver pieces or gold-toned costume jewellery. Popular items include ghungroo anklets (for sound during dancing), layered necklaces, jhumka earrings, maang tikka, and bangles or kade. Colours are matched to the day's Navratri colour. Beaded or meenakari pieces are popular. Keep jewellery secure and avoid dangling pieces that may catch during garba movements. Lightweight sets are preferable for comfort during hours of dancing.
Can children participate in garba and what should they wear?
Yes, children are warmly included in Navratri garba celebrations. Girls typically wear miniature chaniya cholis in bright, festive colours. Boys can wear traditional kediyum or simple kurta-pyjama sets. Comfort and ease of movement are the priority for children's outfits. Lightweight cotton or georgette fabrics work best. Many brands including Haus of Handmade offer handmade children's wear in festive styles that translate well to Navratri celebrations.
How early should I buy my Navratri outfit?
For Navratri 2026 (15–23 September), start shopping by the last week of August at the latest. Made-to-order brands like Haus of Handmade require 10–15 days for production, so ordering by 25 August 2026 is ideal. Ready-to-ship brands can deliver in 3–7 days, but popular sizes and colours sell out quickly during festive season. Tailor-made chaniya cholis from local boutiques typically require 2–3 weeks of advance notice. Planning early ensures you get your preferred colour, style, and fit.
Is Navratri celebrated the same way across India?
No, Navratri celebrations vary significantly by region. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, garba and dandiya are central to the celebration and outfits are a key focus. In West Bengal, Navratri coincides with Durga Puja, where pandal-hopping and saree wearing are prominent. In North India, fasting and Ramlila performances are common. In South India, Golu (display of dolls and figurines) is a key tradition. While the spiritual essence is shared, the cultural expression of Navratri differs meaningfully across states.
When is Navratri 2026?
Navratri 2026 is from 15 September to 23 September 2026. Dussehra follows on 24 September 2026.
What are the 9 colours of Navratri 2026?
Day 1: Royal Blue, Day 2: Yellow, Day 3: Green, Day 4: Grey, Day 5: Orange, Day 6: White, Day 7: Red, Day 8: Sky Blue, Day 9: Pink.
What is the difference between Garba and Dandiya?
Garba is a circular dance with hand gestures performed around a lamp or idol — no props needed. Dandiya Raas uses decorated sticks struck in rhythm with a partner. Both are performed during Navratri.
Is chaniya choli mandatory for garba?
No. Any festive ethnic wear is welcome. Co-ord sets, lehengas, sarees, and kurta sets are all acceptable at most garba venues.
When should I buy my Navratri 2026 outfit?
Order by 25 August 2026 for made-to-order pieces. Ready-to-ship items can be ordered up to a week before but popular sizes sell out fast during festive season.
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