Navratri Day 8: Navratri, a vibrant nine-night festival, is celebrated with immense devotion across India, honoring the various forms of Goddess Durga. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a specific form of the goddess, and the eighth day, known as Maha Ashtami, holds particular significance. This year, Maha Ashtami falls on October 10, 2024, and is dedicated to Maa Mahagauri, the third form of Goddess Durga.
Significance of Maha Ashtami: Navratri Day 8
Maha Ashtami is regarded as one of the most auspicious days during Navratri. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and marks the day when Goddess Durga is believed to have vanquished the buffalo demon Mahishasura. On this day, devotees worship Maa Mahagauri, who represents purity, serenity, and spiritual enlightenment. Her worship is believed to bring peace and prosperity into the lives of her followers, helping them overcome obstacles and cleanse their sins.
Navratri Day 8: Who is Maa Mahagauri?
Maa Mahagauri translates to “fair and radiant.” According to Hindu mythology, she was initially dark due to her intense penance but regained her fair complexion after slaying demons Sumbha and Nisumbha and bathing in the sacred Ganges. She is depicted with four arms, holding a trident (Trishul) in one hand while performing Abhaya Mudra with another. Her serene demeanor and radiant appearance symbolize purity and tranquility.
Navratri Day 8: Puja Vidhi (Rituals)
Navratri Day 8: To honor Maa Mahagauri on Maha Ashtami, devotees follow specific rituals:
- Early Morning Rituals: Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and wear clean clothes—preferably white or pink.
- Setting Up the Altar: Place an idol or picture of Maa Mahagauri on a clean altar.
- Offerings: Present offerings such as:
- Fresh flowers (preferably jasmine)
- Fruits (bananas, apples)
- Sweets (kheer, laddus)
- Coconut-based dishes
- Chanting Mantras: Recite mantras dedicated to Maa Mahagauri, such as “Om Devi Mahagauriyai Namah.”
- Performing Aarti: Conclude the puja by performing Aarti while singing devotional songs.
Navratri Day 8: Shubh Muhurat (Auspicious Timing)
The auspicious timings for performing rituals on Maha Ashtami are crucial for maximizing blessings:
- Ashtami Tithi: Begins at 12:31 PM on October 10 and ends at 12:06 PM on October 11.
- Brahma Muhurat: 4:40 AM to 5:30 AM
- Abhijit Muhurat: 11:45 AM to 12:31 PM
- Amrit Kalam: 12:48 AM to 2:26 AM on October 11.
Color of the Day
Each day of Navratri is associated with a specific color that reflects the goddess being worshipped. For Maha Ashtami, devotees are encouraged to wear pink, symbolizing love, affection, and harmony. This choice not only enhances one’s charm but also fosters a positive atmosphere during prayers.
Bhog (Food Offerings)
Food offerings play an essential role in the worship of Maa Mahagauri. Common bhog items include:
- Coconut: Symbolizing purity and cleansing of sins.
- Nawab Bhog: A mix of rice, lentils, and vegetables representing abundance.
- Kheer: A sweet rice pudding made from milk and sugar.
- Fruits: Seasonal fruits like bananas and apples.
- Sweets: Traditional sweets like laddus or barfis.
Kanya Pujan
A significant aspect of Maha Ashtami is the ritual known as Kanya Pujan or Kumari Puja. During this ritual, young girls are revered as embodiments of Goddess Durga. Devotees invite young girls into their homes, wash their feet, offer them food, and present gifts like bangles and dupattas as a sign of respect and devotion.
Conclusion: Navratri Day 8
Maha Ashtami is not just a day for rituals; it’s a celebration of purity, strength, and devotion towards Maa Mahagauri. By following the puja vidhi diligently and embracing the spirit of this auspicious day through offerings and prayers, devotees seek blessings for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The vibrant celebrations during Navratri remind us of the enduring power of faith and community in overcoming life’s challenges.
