Maha Ashtami 2026: What Indian sources say about the date and timing

1. What happened

   Maha Ashtami, also called Durga Ashtami, is a Hindu festival day in the Navratri period. Indian media published 2026 explainers on its date, rituals and greetings.

2. When it started

   According to The Times of India's weekly panchanga, Durga Ashtami falls in the 19–25 October 2026 period. The Economic Times reports that Maha Navami is on October 19 or 20, and the exact Ashtami date and time are not stated in the material provided.

3. How it spread

   Festival dates in India are set by the lunar calendar (tithi) and vary by region and by panchang. Check a local panchang or temple calendar for the exact start and end times of Ashtami.

4. Why it matters

   The date is trending as Navratri 2026 approaches, and people are searching for puja timings and festival greetings. Sources here cover dates, rituals and wishes rather than any news event.