Chaitra Navratri Ashtami 2024: Date, Time, Shubh Muhurat, Puja Vidhi Of Mahashtami Kanya Pujan

Durga Ashtami marks the installation of nine small pots and the invocation of the nine Shaktis of Durga within them. In addition, a special ritual known as 'Kumari Puja' is also held on this day.

Chaitra Navratri Ashtami 2024 ( Image Source :Getty )

Durga Ashtami, also referred to as Mahashtami, marks the installation of nine small pots and the invocation of the nine Shaktis of Durga within them. This day sees the worship of all nine forms of the Goddess during the Durga Ashtami Puja. Furthermore, on Mahashtami young unmarried girls are worshipped in a ceremony known as 'Kuamri Puja'. This is because, they are believed to embody the essence of Goddess Durga herself. It signifies the presence of divine feminine energy across all stages of life, from childhood to adulthood.

Chaitra Navratri 2024: Date & Time

Chaitra Durgashtami on Tuesday, April 16, 2024

• Ashtami Tithi Begins - 12:11 PM on Apr 15, 2024
• Ashtami Tithi Ends - 01:23 PM on Apr 16, 2024

What Happens During Kumari Puja:

During Kumari Puja, each girl is worshipped with a specific Mantra. The ideal child for Kumari Puja should be in good health and devoid of any ailments or physical imperfections. It is believed that Brahmin girls are chosen to fulfill all desires, Kshatriya girls for honour and renown, Vaishya girls for wealth and abundance, and Shudra girls for the birth of a son.

Sandhi Puja 2024:

The Sandhi Puja holds significant importance in the Navratri Puja rituals. It occurs precisely at the juncture when the Ashtami Tithi concludes and the Navami Tithi commences. Legend has it that Devi Chamunda manifested during this pivotal moment to vanquish the demons Chanda and Munda.

The Sandhi Puja spans two Ghatis, approximately lasting for 48 minutes. The auspicious timing for Sandhi Puja may occur at any moment during the day, and it is performed during that specific period only.

Here is the date and time for Sandhi Puja 2024:

Chaitra Sandhi Puja on Tuesday, April 16, 2024

• Sandhi Puja Muhurat - 09:29 AM to 10:17 AM
• Duration - 00 Hours 48 Mins

Considered the pinnacle and most significant ritual of Durga Puja, Sandhi Puja traditionally involves Balidan or animal sacrifice. However, for those who refrain from such practices, a symbolic offering known as Bali is made using vegetables like banana, cucumber, or pumpkin.