Durga Puja is a grand festival dedicated to Goddess Durga and her various forms. Of the nine days of celebration, Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami hold special significance. This year, both of these auspicious days will be celebrated on Friday, October 11, 2024.
Maha Ashtami & Navami Puja 2024: Date and Time
| Event | Day/Date |
| Durgashtami | Thursday, October 10, 2024 |
| Ashtami Tithi Begins | 03:01 AM on Oct 10, 2024 |
| Ashtami Tithi Ends | 02:36 AM on Oct 11, 2024 |
| Maha Navami | Friday, October 11, 2024 |
| Ashwina Navratri Parana | Saturday, October 12, 2024 |
| Navami Tithi Begins | 02:36 AM on Oct 11, 2024 |
| Navami Tithi Ends | 01:28 AM on Oct 12, 2024 |
Maha Ashtami 2024: Importance and Significance
aha Ashtami, also known as Maha Durgashtami, is the second day of Durga Puja and is one of the most important days of the festival. The day begins with Mahasnan (the sacred bath) followed by Shodashopachar Puja, a ceremonial worship involving sixteen offerings. This puja is similar to the one performed on Maha Saptami, but with one key difference: the Prana Pratishtha, or the invocation of life force, is only performed on Maha Saptami.
On Maha Ashtami, nine small pots are placed, and the nine Shaktis (divine energies) of Durga are invoked within them. Each of the nine forms of Goddess Durga is worshipped, making this day a vibrant celebration of femininity and strength.
A significant aspect of Maha Ashtami is the Kumari Puja, where young unmarried girls are revered as manifestations of Goddess Durga. This puja is often preferred to be performed on Maha Ashtami, although it can be conducted throughout the nine days of Durga Navratri.
Durga Navami 2024: Date, Time, and Significance
Maha Navami 2024: Importance and Significance
Maha Navami is the third and final day of Durga Puja, beginning with Mahasnan and Shodashopachar Puja. On this day, Goddess Durga is worshipped in her fierce form as Mahisasuramardini, the slayer of the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The belief is that on Maha Navami, Durga vanquished the demon, restoring balance and harmony.
Another significant ritual on Maha Navami is the Navami Homa, performed at the end of the day’s puja. This homa is an essential part of the celebrations and symbolizes the culmination of the worship.
Ashtami and Navami Falling on the Same Day? Check Navratri Kanya Pujan Date and Timings
The convergence of Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami on October 11, 2024, provides devotees with an opportunity to engage deeply in the rituals that honor Goddess Durga. These days are filled with significance, from the worship of young girls as embodiments of the goddess to the sacred Sandhi Puja. As the festival reaches its peak, the atmosphere is charged with devotion, making these days a highlight of Durga Puja.
Durga Puja not only celebrates the goddess but also fosters a spirit of community and togetherness, as families and friends come together to participate in the rituals, making it a cherished time for all.
Also Read: When is Karwa Chauth fasting this year?
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