What is Durga Ashtami ?
Durga Ashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of the nine days of Navratri. Also known as Maha Ashtami , this day symbolizes the power and victorious energy of Goddess Durga in her final manifestations .
Religious significance
- This day is famous for the worship of the nine forms of Maa Durga, especially Kali, Chandi and Rudra .
- On the day of Ashtami, Kumari Pujan and Annakut or Bhog are organised, in which young girls and young women are fed food considering them to be the form of Goddess.
- On this day, special pujas and mantras are chanted to get relief from troubles and gain power .
Cultural significance
- Navratri celebrations reach their peak on the day of Ashtami in rural and urban areas .
- Bali or animal sacrifice is also a tradition in many places (especially in Western India), symbolizing the goddess’s anger and power.
- Through Kumari Pujan at homes, the importance of virtue, devotion and power is taught to children and youth.
Meaning and message in life
- Durga Ashtami teaches us that victory of good over evil, mischief and ignorance is possible.
- This day symbolizes strength, courage, and fearlessness .
- It is said that by observing the Ashtami fast, a person gets victory over troubles and mental strength .
Main Pujas and Rituals
- Kumari Pujan – Honoring 1 to 9 virgin girls.
- Nine-day Navratri fast – its special significance on Ashtami.
- Bhog Arpan – Offering food and sweets to Goddess Durga.
- Mantra and Aarti – Especially chanting “Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayai Vichche”.
Durga Ashtami Vrat Katha
The Durga Ashtami fast is considered a symbol of Goddess Durga’s supreme power and victory over evil . According to the Puranas, at one time, the atrocities of demons on Earth became rampant. In particular, a demon named Mahishasura was troubling both gods and humans.
All the gods began to sing the praises of Goddess Durga, and after performing special yagnas and austerities, she manifested. Goddess Durga fought for nine nights, killed Mahishasura on the eighth day , and established Dharma. This is why the tradition of observing special pujas and fasting on Ashtami began.
Those observing the fast are said to have all their wishes fulfilled , overcome adversity and sorrow , and increase mental and spiritual strength. Performing Kumari Puja on this day is considered highly auspicious, where one to nine young girls are treated as goddesses and fed. This act is not only religiously virtuous but also conveys the message of virtue, devotion, and culture .
Those observing the fast on Ashtami should offer fruits, flowers, red clothing, and offerings . Furthermore, chanting the mantra, especially ” Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundaye Vichche ,” is believed to bring the Goddess’s blessings. This fast not only enhances spiritual strength but also conveys the message of courage, fearlessness, and victory over evil .
Auspicious measures and worship method
- Get up early in the morning , take a bath and wear clean clothes.
- Clean the place and install a picture or idol of the Goddess at home or at the place of worship.
- Kumari Puja :
- Respect girls from 1 to 9.
- Dress them in clean clothes, apply tilak and offer sweets.
- Chant the 108 names of Maa Durga or chant the mantra “Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundaye Vichche”.
- Offering of Bhog : Offer fruits, sweets, halwa or dishes to the Goddess.
- Aarti and lighting of lamps : Light lamps in the evening and perform Aarti.
Benefits of fasting
- Peace and happiness come in home and life .
- The person feels the power of mind and body .
- Evil, negative energy and troubles go away.
- By worshipping Kumari, devotion and values develop in children.
Special Tips
- On the day of Ashtami, offer red colored clothes and fruits and flowers to the Goddess.
- While fasting, worship with a true heart and devotion , this increases success and good fortune.
Summary:
Durga Ashtami is not just a day of religious observance, but also a symbol of strength, courage, and the triumph of good over evil . It reminds us to face life’s challenges fearlessly and follow the path of truth and righteousness.
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