Durga Puja 2026 is almost here. For millions of Bengalis in Kolkata, across India and around the world, these are the happiest days of the year. Here are all the dates, what each day means, and a few free phone wallpapers to get you in the pujo mood.
Mahalaya: 10 October 2026
Mahalaya is the day the countdown begins. Pitru Paksha ends and Devi Paksha starts, the time when Maa Durga is believed to begin her journey home. Many families wake up before sunrise to listen to Mahishasuramardini on the radio, a tradition that is now almost a hundred years old.
[Insert wallpaper: mahalaya-2026-dawn-kash-flowers-wallpaper]
Durga Puja 2026, day by day
Maha Shashthi – Saturday, 17 October: Bodhon, the goddess is welcomed.
Maha Saptami – Sunday, 18 October: Nabapatrika snan at dawn.
Maha Ashtami – Monday, 19 October: Kumari Puja and Sandhi Puja, the busiest day.
Maha Navami – Tuesday, 20 October: Navami Homa and the last full night of pandal hopping.
Bijoya Dashami – Wednesday, 21 October: Sindoor Khela and goodbye to Maa until next year.
How Durga Puja links with Navratri and Dussehra
Navratri 2026 runs from 11 to 19 October, and Dussehra falls on 20 October. In Bengal, Bijoya Dashami comes one day later, on 21 October. Different regions, different customs, but the same goddess and the same victory of good over evil.
Our free Durga Puja wallpapers
All wallpapers are free and made for phones (1080 x 1920).
1. Mahalaya Dawn Kash Flowers – white kash grass, shiuli flowers and a dhak at sunrise.
2. Durga Puja Dhunuchi & Dhak AMOLED – golden dhunuchi smoke on pure black. Great for AMOLED screens.
[Insert wallpaper: durga-puja-dhunuchi-dhak-amoled-wallpaper]
3. Durga Maa Trishul and Lotus – a golden trishul rising behind a glowing lotus.
[Insert wallpaper: Durga Maa Trishul and Lotus]
How to set the wallpaper
Android: open the picture, tap the three dots, then "Set as wallpaper".
iPhone: save the picture, open Photos, tap Share, then "Use as Wallpaper".
Share these with your family on WhatsApp using the buttons below. And come back soon, because our Kali Puja and Diwali wallpapers are already on the way.
Shubho Sharodiya!
