Throughout the year, there are a total of five Navratris, each with its unique significance and observances.
The primary Navratris, celebrated with great fervor, are Chaitra Navratri, which falls in March or April, and Shardiya Navratri, occurring in September or October.
These Navratris are marked by vibrant festivities and are dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga.
In contrast, the two secretive Navratris, known as "gupt" Navratris, take place during the month of Ashadh (June/July) and Magh (January/February).
The Varahi Navratri and Matangi Navratri are not widely known and are primarily observed by practitioners of Tantra Sadhana.
The fifth Navratri, called Shakambhari Navratri, is relatively lesser-known but equally significant.
It falls in the month of Paush, typically December or January, and deviates slightly from the standard nine-day Navratri tradition.
Shakambhari Navratri lasts for eight days, commencing on Paush Shukla Ashtami, which is the eighth day of the bright half of the lunar month.
This unique Navratri culminates on the auspicious day of Paush Purnima, known as "Shakambhari Purnima," with special prayers and rituals to honor the goddess.