Navratri is considered one of the most auspicious days of Hindu culture. It is when devotees worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga. As each day is dedicated
to a different avatar, the celebration is considered equally unique due to an auspicious celestial alignment. According to the Hindu Panchang, Chaitra Navratri will begin on Thursday, March 19, 2026, with Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana) performed on the Pratipada tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Chaitra month. The festival will continue for nine days and conclude on March 27, 2026, coinciding with Ram Navami. The final two days- Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami hold immense importance as devotees all across the country observe Kanya Pujan or Kumari Pujan. In this popular and auspicious ritual, young girls typically aged between 2 and 12 are worshipped as the living embodiments of the goddess herself. When Is Maha Ashtami? This year, Maha Ashtami will be celebrated on Thursday, March 26, 2026. This day is dedicated to Goddess Mahagauri. Performing Kanya Pujan in the morning on this day is considered most fruitful. Significance of Maha Ashtami Maha Ashtami is considered to be one of the important days. According to the Vedic Panchang, “Durga Puja on Maha Ashtami begins with Mahasnan and Shodashopachar Puja, which is very much similar to Maha Saptami Puja except Prana Pratishtha, which is done only once on Maha Saptami.” Things To Avoid On Maha Ashtami
- Do not fight or insult anyone at home during these two days.
- Do not consume tamasic things even by mistake.
- Tulsi leaves should be included in the worship of Lord Ram on Ram Navami but do not offer Tulsi leaves to Goddess Durga even by mistake during the Navratri puja .
- On the morning of Ashtami and Navami, one should wake up during the Brahma Muhurta (time of the month of Brahma). Sleeping late does not yield the full benefits of the puja.
Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.
