Navratri 2026: Puja mistakes to avoid

Don`t begin Puja without preparation

New to Navratri puja? Begin by preparing your puja space, diya, flowers, incense, offerings & other essentials. You don`t need an elaborate setup to begin.

Keep the temple clean

Clean the temple before arranging everything. Beginners focus on decorations & forget basic preparation. Wash puja utensils before starting your worship.

Get "Kalash Sthapana" right

Don`t rush this important ritual simply by copying a random online picture. Follow a trusted family practice or a reliable guide for the specific method.

Stop treating every offering as the same

Flowers, fruits, sweets & other offerings are common during Navratri, but specific preferences can differ. You don`t need to collect every possible offering.

Never leave a diya unattended

Lighting a diya is a familiar part of Navratri puja, but safety matters. Don`t leave a burning diya unattended. If you need to leave, extinguish it safely.

Don`t confuse the 9 days` rituals

Navratri is associated with the worship of nine forms of Maa Durga. Before beginning, check which form of the Goddess is worshipped on each day.

Don`t let dress-code myths confuse you

Some devotees choose the colour associated with the day as part of puja. Don`t feel that you cannot pray because you lack a particular outfit or colour.

Check bhog rules before offering

Bhog is offered to the Goddess according to the customs of the household. Keep offerings clean & handle them respectfully, rather than assuming anything.

Don`t rush through the mantra

You needn`t memorise every mantra on your 1st day. If you are learning a new mantra, check its pronunciation & traditional usage through a trustworthy source.

Don`t forget daily altar care

If you maintain a Navratri altar for 9 days, give it regular attention. A little maintenance helps you begin each morning without unnecessary clutter.