Attaining happiness and good fortune through the worship of Navdurga during Sharadiya Navratri

The worship of Shakti (Divine Power) has been practiced since time immemorial. Humans have always required inner strength; without Shakti, one cannot move even a blade of grass. Humans accomplish the tasks of the world through the strength of three proportional forces: Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic. A balanced integration of these forces forms the foundation of the entire universe's creation.

Shakti herself assumes the masculine aspect in the forms of Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra—as stated in the Devi Atharvashirsha: "She is the embodiment of Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra." That singular Shakti unites with Brahman to create the entire universe; she joins Lord Vishnu to sustain all living beings; and, in the form of Gauri, she partners with Lord Rudra to bring about the dissolution (Pralaya) of all things in the universe.

Shakti (divine power) manifests in many forms such as mother, sister, daughter, grandmother, wife, devotion, strength, knowledge, wisdom, faith, service, and support. This divine energy is present everywhere and at all times. To maintain purity, good values, and harmonious relationships in life, everyone should perform Shakti worship and cultivate positivity through spiritual practices.

All the initiated disciples of our revered Sadgurudev Shri Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj, living in India and abroad, observe fasting, Guru Mantra chanting, and worship during the Navratri of both the spring (Vasant) and autumn (Sharad) seasons to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga. Through these spiritual practices, the grace of Bhagwati Durga, the divine motherly power, and the blessings of Sadgurudev Ji remain with all of us always.

May every initiated disciple of our revered Sadgurudev be blessed with creative and positive energy. Therefore, by becoming a Yajman (devotional participant) in the worship during Vasantik Navratri, one can receive the divine grace and blessings of Maa Bhavani.

While a spiritual seeker should worship the supreme power, Goddess Durga, every day, there are two primary *Navaratri* festivals in the year: *Chaitra* (Spring) *Navaratri* and *Ashwin* (*Sharad* or Autumn) *Navaratri*. *Sharad Navaratri* is considered the most significant period for the worship of the Goddess; it is during this time that many new seekers begin their fasts and spiritual observances.

This year, Goddess Durga is arriving at the homes of devotees riding an elephant—a form that brings happiness, prosperity, peace, and abundance in food and wealth. May the Divine Mother bestow all forms of happiness upon all of us, the devotees of the Guru.

This year, *Sharad Navaratri* is scheduled—according to the Panchang (almanac)—to commence on Ashwin Shukla Pratipada (Sunday, October 11, 2026) and conclude on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 (spanning ten days), facilitating the worship and the fulfillment of devotees' heartfelt wishes. You should certainly arrange for the worship of the Goddess's nine forms—Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri—to be performed over these ten days by the learned Brahmins of your Gurudham. 

Such worship leads to liberation from disease, sorrow, affliction, and poverty, while bestowing happiness and good fortune. This year, the Vijayadashami (Dussehra) festival will be celebrated on October 20.