Significance of Ashtami in Sharadiya Navratri: Rituals and Gifts for Young Girls

Prayagraj, October 17 (Daily Kiran) : The eighth day of Navratri, known as Ashtami or Mahaashtami, is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her Mahagauri form. Devotees believe that sincere prayers on this day can alleviate all suffering and bring prosperity into their lives. The goddess is named Mahagauri due to her fair complexion.

In 2026, there is some confusion regarding the dates for Ashtami, which falls on October 18 and 19. The festival holds great significance in Hinduism, with nine forms of Goddess Durga being worshiped over these nine days. Each day is dedicated to a specific aspect of the goddess, and true devotion during this period is said to invite her blessings and bring happiness to the household.

Pandit Shipra Sachdev explained that in some regions, fasting occurs on the seventh day, with Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls) taking place on Ashtami. This year, the seventh day falls on October 17 and 18. On the 17th, devotees can observe the fast all day, while Ashtami begins at 11:36 AM on the 18th. Therefore, worshipers may choose to fast on the 17th and perform Kanya Pujan after the onset of Ashtami.

Furthermore, Pandit Sachdev noted that Navami will commence on October 19 at 7:36 AM. On this day, both Ashtami and Navami Kanya Pujan can be performed. According to the Udaya Tithi, this year, the celebrations for both Ashtami and Navami will take place on the 19th.

As Venus has set this time, it is advisable to present young girls with items related to marital bliss, such as rubber bands, hair clips, and perfumes, to attract wealth and prosperity. The setting of Venus is believed to negatively impact financial abundance, making thoughtful gifts particularly important this year.