Sharadiya Navratri, the nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, is one of the most auspicious and celebrated festivals in India. Every year, devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and engage in cultural festivities to honor the divine feminine energy. Among the nine days of Navratri, Mahashtami and Navami hold special significance, as they are associated with powerful rituals, including Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls as a representation of Goddess Durga).
Understanding Mahashtami and Navami
Mahashtami, the eighth day of Sharadiya Navratri, is considered one of the most powerful days for invoking Goddess Durga. On this day, devotees perform elaborate rituals, including Homa (fire rituals) and Durga Puja, especially in West Bengal, Bihar, and other parts of India. It is believed that observing fast and prayers on Mahashtami brings prosperity, health, and spiritual growth.
Navami, the ninth day, marks the culmination of the Navratri festivities before Dussehra (Vijayadashami). It is the day when devotees intensify their prayers and rituals, seeking blessings for courage, wisdom, and success. Navami is also considered highly auspicious for performing Kanya Pujan, where young girls representing Goddess Durga are worshipped with devotion and love.
Mahashtami & Navami Dates in 2025
In 2025, Sharadiya Navratri will begin on September 22nd (Monday) and end on October 1st (Wednesday). Accordingly, the dates for Mahashtami and Navami are as follows:
- Mahashtami: September 30, 2025 (Tuesday)
- Navami: October 1, 2025 (Wedneday)
These days are considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices, fasting, and Kanya Pujan.
Kanya Pujan – The Heart of Mahashtami and Navami
Kanya Pujan, also known as Kanjak Puja, is a tradition where nine young girls (representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga) are worshipped. Devotees wash their feet, offer new clothes, and serve prasad (special food offerings) to these girls. This ritual symbolizes purity, devotion, and respect for the feminine energy.
The practice of Kanya Pujan not only fulfills religious duties but also promotes humility, charity, and love for all beings. Many households and temples across India conduct Kanya Pujan with great enthusiasm, ensuring that every girl is treated with reverence.
Kanya Pujan Timings in 2025
The timing for Kanya Pujan is crucial to ensure the ritual is performed under an auspicious period, known as Muhurta. In 2025, the Kanya Pujan timings are expected to be:
Mahashtami Kanya Pujan Subh Muhurat
- Abhijit Muhurat: 11:47 AM to 12:35 PM
- Brahm Muhurat: 5:47 AM to 6:14 AM
Navmi Tithi ( Kanya Pujan ) Shubh Muhurat
On the ninth day (Navami Tithi), Kanya Pujan can be performed from 4:53 AM to 5:41 AM. Additionally, Kanya Bhoj can be offered between 8:06 AM and 9:50 AM. However, since Navami Tithi is valid until 7:02 PM on this day, Kanya Pujan can also be performed at other times within this period.
It is recommended to check local Panchang or temple announcements for precise timings, as they can vary slightly depending on your location.
Tips for Observing Mahashtami and Navami
Fasting and Prayers: Many devotees observe a strict fast, consuming only fruits, milk, and vegetarian meals.
Decorate the Puja Area: Clean your home and decorate the altar with flowers, lights, and idols of Goddess Durga.
Offerings: Prepare special foods like kheer, puri, and fruits to serve during Kanya Pujan.
Spiritual Reading: Recite Durga Chalisa or Devi Mahatmya to seek blessings.
Charity: Donating to the needy during these days is considered highly auspicious.
Conclusion
Mahashtami and Navami are not just dates on a calendar; they are opportunities to connect with the divine feminine, seek blessings, and practice devotion. By observing Kanya Pujan during Sharadiya Navratri, devotees honor the power and purity of Goddess Durga in the form of young girls.
