Maha Ashtami, also known as Durga Ashtami, holds immense significance during the nine-day Hindu festival of Navratri, dedicated to the worship of Maa Durga and her nine avatars. Here is some information about Maha Ashtami, its history, significance, auspicious times, and traditions:
Date of Maha Ashtami 2023: Maha Ashtami falls on the eighth day of Navratri or the second day of Durga Puja. In 2023, it is celebrated on October 22, which is a Sunday.
Shubh Muhurat and Kanya Puja Time:
Ashtami Tithi starts on October 21 at 9:53 PM and ends on October 22 at 7:58 PM.
Brahma Muhurat: 4:45 AM to 5:35 AM.
Vijaya Muhurat: 1:59 PM to 2:44 PM.
Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga: 6:26 AM to 6:44 PM.
Kanya Puja can be performed on October 22 from 6:26 AM.
History and Significance: Maha Ashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of Navratri, where devotees worship the eighth form of Maa Durga, known as Maa Mahagauri. This form symbolizes purity, serenity, and tranquility.
For the Bengali community, which celebrates Durga Puja starting from Shashti, the Chamunda incarnation of Goddess Shakti is worshipped on Durga Ashtami. It is believed that on this day, the Goddess appeared and defeated Mahishasura’s demon associates Chanda, Munda, and Raktabija.
The day typically begins with Mahasnan, a ceremonial bath. Devotees perform Shodashopachar Puja, involving the installation of nine small pots at places of worship, each representing one of the nine Shaktis of Maa Durga. All nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped during Maha Ashtami Puja.
One of the prominent traditions on this day is the worship of young unmarried girls, as they are considered divine avatars of Maa Durga. This ritual is known as Kumari/Kanya Puja and is observed in many regions throughout the nine days of Navratri.
Another significant observance is the legendary Sandhi Puja, which falls on Maha Ashtami. During this ritual, devotees offer animal or vegetable and fruit sacrifices to the deity. The last 24 minutes of Ashtami Tithi and the first 24 minutes of Navami Tithi are considered the Sandhi Time or the holy juncture during Durga Puja. It is customary to light 108 earthen lamps during this time.
Maha Ashtami is a day filled with devotion, puja rituals, and celebrations that honor the divine power of Maa Durga and her victorious battles against evil forces, making it a significant and revered part of Navratri and Durga Puja celebrations.
