Chaitra Navratri 2026: Avoid doing these mistakes this Navratri

The festive season has begun and it’s time to immerse the soul in the devotion of Goddess Durga. This year the Chaitra Navratri began on 19th March and will continue till 27th March, Ram Navami. The 9-day-long festival holds a special place in Hindu culture and is celebrated across the country, wherein the 9 avatars of Goddess Durga are worshipped and devotees observe fasts during this time.

However, there are times when, unknowingly, we end up overlooking age-old beliefs. Here are some common mistakes that one must avoid during Navratri.Avoid non-vegDon't eat non-veg foods during these nine nights; it is believed that one must refrain from eating meat or fish, which can attract negative vibrations during this time, as it is about cleansing of the body and soul. This clashes with the spirit of the festival and makes your prayers weaker.

No alcoholDon't drink alcohol at all; it is believed that alcohol is tamasic in nature and consuming it can cloud the mind and body. This blocks the Goddess's blessings and makes your fast meaningless.

Avoid leatherDon't keep leather things like belts or bags near your puja area. Cows are considered sacred. Their products have energies that don't suit Ma Durga's presence.

Don’t harm plantsBe careful with plants during aarti. Don't. Pluck them. Plants do well under the goddess's watch.

If you harm them, you might face misfortune. Stop good things from happening.No dark colorsIt is believed that colors like black attract negativity, and it is advised to avoid wearing such colors during the puja. Don't wear dark colors when you worship. These colors absorb negativity. They keep the protective blessings from entering the abode.Refrain from argumentsTry to avoid arguments and anger; when you shout, it breaks the peace Ma Durga wants.

This can leave discord even after the festival is over.

No onion and garlicAvoid eating onion, garlic and food from outside. These can make you feel fiery and upset your digestion when you fast. This can also make your mind unclear.Offer prasad with clean handsGive fresh and clean prasad. Don't give or offer sweets with unclean hands. If you give impure gifts, it disrespects the goddess. Her blessings might not come to you.