In 2026, Durga Ashtami falls on Sunday 18 October, Maha Navami on Monday 19 and Dussehra on Tuesday 20. Panchang sources can differ by a day depending on the city, so check yours.
Those three days are the crowded end of Navratri. Kanya pujan at home, relatives coming and going, and an evening outdoors. The looks people want are simple: neat, festive, and still fine at nine at night after a day on your feet.
Work backwards from Ashtami
| When | What | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Around 10 to 12 October | Haircut or trim, if the ends need it | ₹299 straight, ₹399 layered |
| Around 13 to 14 October | Fruit facial or cleanup | ₹499 or ₹299 |
| Around 15 to 16 October | Waxing and threading | Full arms and legs honey wax from ₹498, threading ₹29 to ₹149 |
| 17 October, the day before Ashtami | Manicure and pedicure combo, mehndi if you want it | ₹699, mehndi from ₹999 |
| Ashtami morning | Hair and draping if you want them done | Hairstyle ₹599, draping ₹499 |
Kanya pujan day
The person hosting has the hardest job: cooking, welcoming, standing for hours. What holds up: hair pinned or plaited so it stays off the face, minimal makeup or a light base and kajal, and a pedicure done the day before so your feet are comfortable in whatever you wear.
If you are not doing makeup, skip it. A cleaned-up eyebrow, tidy nails and neat hair look more festive than heavy makeup that has slipped by lunch.
Dussehra evening outdoors
Fairs and Ravan dahan mean crowds, smoke, dust and a late night. Two things help: a base that is not heavy, and lipstick that survives drinks and snacks. Carry a small blotting kit. If you are wearing a saree or lehenga, our draping service (₹499) keeps the pleats where you left them through a walk across a maidan.
Our guide on makeup that lasts in Jaipur's heat covers what to ask for. October evenings are cooler than summer but the days can still be warm.
Slots fill early this week
Ashtami, Navami and Dussehra fall within three days of each other, and Karva Chauth and Diwali prep follow soon after. Festival weeks are busy, so if you want a specific time, book early and confirm on WhatsApp.
Tell us which day you need to be ready and what you want done. We will suggest the order and confirm a time.
Common questions
When is Durga Ashtami in 2026?
Sunday 18 October 2026, with Maha Navami on 19 October and Dussehra on 20 October. Check your local panchang, as it can vary by a day.
What should I book before kanya pujan?
A pedicure and manicure the day before, hair done or neatly set, and simple makeup if you want it. Keep it low effort for a day on your feet.
How much is mehndi for Ashtami?
Full hands mehndi starts at ₹999 and takes about 90 minutes. Book the day before.
Do I need to book early for Dussehra week?
It is sensible to. Festival weeks are busy and the run continues into Karva Chauth and Diwali, so booking early gives you a choice of time.
Book what this guide covers
Full price lists and details for the services discussed here.
