Ashtami Puja Muhurat 2023

According to the Hindu Lunar calendar, the eighth day of Navratri corresponds to the Ashtami tithi (day) of the Ashwin month and is celebrated as Mahashtami or Durgashtami. This day is considered lucky and auspicious. On this day, it is believed that Goddess Chamunda emerged from the forehead of Goddess Durga and slew the demons Chanda and Munda, who supported the demon Mahishasur.

See also: Kal Bhairav puja vidhi to bring peace and prosperity

 

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The Ashtanayika or Asht Shakti comprising of Brahmani, Maheswari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Narasinghi, Indrani and Chamunda, are worshipped on this day along with 64 yoginis and Goddess Durga to seek prosperity, success, good health and protection against evil spirits.

 

Ashtami Puja Muhurat

Durgashtami falls on Sunday, October 22, 2023. Durga Puja can be performed between 21:50 PM on October 21, 2023 and 20:00:57 PM on October 22, 2023.

 

Rituals

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1. In many parts of the country, Mahagauri is worshipped on this day as a symbol of beauty, calmness and motherhood.
2. In Gujarat and parts of Rajasthan, people dress up in colourful clothes and participate in Garba (a folk dance) to express their joy throughout Navratri. Many devotees also perform Astra Pujan ( Worship of weapons) in remembrance of the legendary war of Maa Durga against Mahishasur and wish for strength to fight against evil spirits and hardships.
3. The most important ritual of Ashtami Puja is Kanya Pujan, where small girls or kanya, are invited and welcomed by washing their feet and followed by their aarti. The girls are served fresh food and sweets along with small gifts to attain their blessings.
4. Many devotees open their fasts after Kanya Pujan, while a prominent section opens their fast on Navami (the next day).

 

FAQs

Who is Chamunda the Goddess?

One of the seven Matrikas, Chamunda is a fearsome incarnation of Chandi, the Hindu mother goddess also known as Shakti.

What is Durga Ashtami?

Maha Ashtami, commonly referred to as Durga Ashtami, is a prominent Hindu festival honouring the goddess Durga. It occurs on the festival's eighth day, Navratri.

What day of the week is Durga Ashtami?

Durga Ashtami is observed on the eighth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, which often falls in September or October.

What does Kumari Puja on Durga Ashtami signify?

Known as Kumari Puja, little girls are worshipped. It is regarded as a crucial component of Durga Ashtami festivities in many cultures because it represents the strength and purity connected to feminine energy.

What dishes are traditionally served on Durga Ashtami?

During Durga Ashtami, a variety of vegetarian treats are made and served as prasad. Poori, halwa and chana are some of the most well-known foods.

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