Chaitra Navratri is a sacred nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. It marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and is celebrated with immense devotion across India. Among these nine days, Ashtami and Navami hold special significance, particularly for Kanya Pujan, a crucial ritual in Navratri celebrations.
Chaitra Durgashtami 2025 – Saturday, April 5, 2025
Durga Ashtami, also known as Mahashtami, is one of the most important days of Navratri. On this day, devotees invoke the nine forms of Goddess Durga by installing nine sacred pots (Kalash Sthapana). Worshipping all nine forms of the Goddess on this day is considered highly auspicious.
One of the most revered rituals performed on Mahashtami is Sandhi Puja. This ritual is observed during the transition period between Ashtami and Navami Tithi, known as Sandhi Kaal. The last 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami are considered the most powerful moments for seeking divine blessings. Sandhi Puja holds a special place in Durga Puja celebrations, as it is believed that Goddess Durga manifested her fierce form, Chamunda, during this time to defeat the demons Chanda and Munda.
Important Dates and Timings
| Event | Date and Time |
|---|---|
| Chaitra Durgashtami 2025 | Saturday, April 5, 2025 |
| Ashtami Tithi Begins | 08:12 PM on April 4, 2025 |
| Ashtami Tithi Ends | 07:26 PM on April 5, 2025 |
| Mahanavami 2025 | Sunday, April 6, 2025 |
Mahanavami 2025 – Sunday, April 6, 2025
Mahanavami, the ninth and final day of Chaitra Navratri, holds immense spiritual significance. Devotees offer special prayers, conduct Kanya Pujan, and perform Havan to seek the divine blessings of Goddess Durga. The day is dedicated to worshipping Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Goddess Durga, who bestows wisdom and spiritual enlightenment upon her devotees.
Kanya Pujan Ritual on Ashtami and Navami
Kanya Pujan, also known as Kanjak Pujan, is an essential part of Navratri celebrations. It is performed on Ashtami or Navami, where young girls (symbolizing the divine feminine energy) are worshipped as embodiments of Goddess Durga. The ritual involves:
Washing the feet of young girls as a mark of respect.
Offering them traditional food like puri, halwa, and chana.
Giving them gifts and money as blessings.
Seeking their divine blessings for prosperity and happiness.
Significance of Mahanavami
Mahanavami signifies the culmination of Navratri, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The day is observed with grand celebrations, fasting, and cultural events in temples and households across India. The Havan and Kanya Pujan conducted on this day are believed to bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to devotees.
Conclusion
Chaitra Navratri’s Ashtami and Mahanavami are among the most significant days, marked by Sandhi Puja, Kanya Pujan, and Havan. Observing these rituals with devotion is believed to bring immense blessings and fulfillment. Celebrate this Navratri 2025 with unwavering faith and devotion to seek the divine grace of Goddess Durga.
Jai Mata Di!
