The auspicious season of Navaratri is approaching, marking a time dedicated to devotion, learning, and the worship of Goddess Saraswati. For families and students across Kerala preparing for the festive rituals, the official dates for Pooja Veppu, Mahanavami (Ayudha Pooja), and Vijayadashami (Vidyarambham) for 2026 have been confirmed.
Navaratri 2026 Key Dates at a Glance
| Ritual / Event | Date (2026) | Significance |
| Pooja Veppu | October 18 (Sunday) | Books, tools, and instruments are placed for worship in the evening |
| Durgashtami | October 19 (Monday) | Dedicated day of Saraswati Pooja and prayers |
| Mahanavami / Ayudha Pooja | October 20 (Tuesday) | Worship of professional tools, machinery, and vehicles |
| Vijayadashami / Vidyarambham | October 21 (Wednesday) | Concluding day; removal of books and initiation of children into learning |
Pooja Veppu (October 18, Sunday)
The sacred rituals begin on the evening of Sunday, October 18. In homes and temples across Kerala, traditional prayer spaces are prepared to place sacred texts, study materials, and professional work equipment before Goddess Saraswati. Once the books and tools are kept for Pooja, traditional customs observe a pause in active studying or professional work until the conclusion of the rituals on Vijayadashami.
Mahanavami & Ayudha Pooja (October 20, Tuesday)
Falling on the ninth day of Navaratri, Mahanavami will be observed on Tuesday, October 20. This day highlights Ayudha Pooja, where vehicles, musical instruments, machinery, and work tools are thoroughly cleaned, decorated, and honored with special offerings.
Vijayadashami & Vidyarambham (October 21, Wednesday)
Navaratri celebrations culminate on Wednesday, October 21, with Vijayadashami. The morning begins with Pooja Edppu (removing the books from the altar). This is followed by Vidyarambham (the initiation ceremony), where young children take their first steps into the world of letters by writing their first syllables—typically Hari Sree—on processed rice or sand in temples and cultural centers.
For more details on upcoming auspicious days, festivals, and monthly dates, check out the Kerala9 Malayalam Calendar.
Note: Pooja timings and rituals may vary slightly depending on local temple traditions and precise Tithi timings. Readers are advised to verify the exact timings with their local or family temples.
