Maha Ashtami, also known as Durga Ashtami, is considered to be one of the holiest and most sacred dates of Sharadiya Navratri. Focused on the worship of Goddess Mahagauri, who is one of the eight forms of Navdurga and is known to represent peace, purity, and poise, this day is celebrated at its peak. People across the nation celebrate by fasting and worshipping Maa Durga and conducting ceremonies like Mahasnan to receive blessings from her. An important part of the celebration is Kanya Pujan, or Kanjak, which involves inviting little girls into your house in honour of the Goddess.

Durga Ashtami 2026 Date and Tithi Timings

In 2026, Durga Ashtami (Maha Ashtami) falls on Monday, October 19, 2026.

  • Ashtami Tithi Begins: October 18, 2026

  • Ashtami Tithi Ends: Morning of October 19, 2026

  • Udaya Tithi Observation: Because Ashtami Tithi is present at sunrise on October 19, the ritualistic fasts, Kanya Pujan, and Mahagauri Puja will be observed on Monday, October 19.

  • Sandhi Puja Muhurat: Performed during the sacred transition window between the last 24 minutes of Ashtami Tithi and the first 24 minutes of Navami Tithi.

    • Step-by-Step Kanya Pujan Rituals

    Kanya Pujan honours young girls (traditionally aged 2 to 10 years) as representatives of the nine divine forms of Maa Durga.

    • Inviting the Kanyas: Welcome nine young girls accompanied by a young boy (representing Bhairava) into your house with reverence.

  • Feet Washing (Charan Seva): Arrange the seating of these children properly and perform their feet-washing ceremony using pure water or milk from a bowl.

  • Tilak: Put red roli-kumkum tilak on their forehead and tie a red thread (kalava) on their wrists.

  • Prasad Offering: Provide them with the traditional Navratri prasad of halwa, puri, and sukha kala chana (black chickpeas).

  • Gift Giving and Dakshina: Gift these children with some presents (such as stationery, red chunris or bangles) and give them money as dakshina.

  • Blessings: Offer a touch on their feet and pray for their blessing (aashirwad).

    • Significance of Maa Mahagauri Worship

    The goddess Maa Mahagauri is shown with radiant fairness, riding on a bull, and carrying a trishul (trident) and a damru. Worshipping her on Ashtami would help to cleanse one's sins and also fulfil one's heart's wishes.

    Conclusion

    In 2026, Durga Ashtami provides a chance to attain the blessings of Maa Mahagauri through the time-honoured practice of Kanya Pujan. By undertaking these religious activities on October 19, 2026, people bring about peace, prosperity, and spiritual satisfaction in their homes.

    Image credits: Freepik

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