The Navratri festival started on October 3, 2024. It is believed that during these nine days, Goddess Durga arrives on Earth to relieve her devotees from their troubles. The days of Ashtami and Navami hold special significance during this period. Let’s find out when Ashtami and Navami (Maha Ashtami and Mahanavami Date 2024) will be observed this time and how to perform their rituals.
When are Ashtami and Navami? (Ashtami and Navami Date 2024)
According to the Panchang (Hindu calendar), this year, there is an overlap of dates during Sharadiya Navratri. This means that both the seventh (Saptami) and the eighth (Ashtami) days will fall on the same day, October 10. However, it is considered inauspicious to perform the fast for both Saptami and Ashtami on the same day. Therefore, Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami will be celebrated together on October 11.
How to Perform the Pooja (Ashtami and Navami Puja Vidhi)
This year, Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami will be celebrated on the same day, October 11. On this day, wake up early in the morning and take a bath. After that, clean the area where you will perform the puja and sprinkle Ganga water. Next, light a lamp in front of the Goddess and perform an abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Goddess Durga with Ganga water.
During the puja, offer rice (akshat), red vermilion (sindoor), flowers, and sweets to the Goddess. You can offer simple vegetarian food like kheer (a rice pudding), chickpeas, and puris (fried bread) as prasad (offering). After lighting incense and a lamp, recite the Durga Chalisa (a devotional hymn), and finally, perform the aarti (waving of light) with your family.
Also Read- Navratri 2024 Fasting: Dos and Don’ts for the Festival
Don’t Forget to Worship Young Girls
On Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami (Navratri 2024), worshiping young girls (Kanya Puja) is considered very important. On this day, after your puja, invite 8 or 9 young girls to your home for a meal. Serve them puris, chickpeas, coconut, and halwa as offerings. Before sending them off, make sure to give them some gifts and take their blessings. By doing this, Goddess Durga will be pleased with you and bless you with happiness and prosperity.