Navratri 2026: Why Maha Ashtami is considered the most powerful day? Know timings and Kanya Pujan rituals

Maha Ashtami, one of the most significant days of Navratri, is being observed with devotion across India. Dedicated to Goddess Durga’s Mahagauri form, the day holds special importance for Kanya Pujan rituals.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 26 March 2026, 8:25 AM IST

Devotees Celebrate Maha Ashtami with Special Prayers to Goddess Durga

New Delhi: On the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Navratri, Maha Ashtami is being celebrated with reverence and devotion today. This day is considered especially significant for the worship of Maa Mahagauri, the eighth form of Goddess Durga. According to religious beliefs, worship performed on this day reaches the Goddess directly and bestows special benefits upon devotees.

Date and Significance of Maha Ashtami

This year, Navratri began on March 19th, and Maha Ashtami is being celebrated on March 26th. According to the calendar, Ashtami Tithi began at 1:50 pm on March 25th and ended at 11:48 am on March 26th. Based on the Udayatithi, the Maha Ashtami fast and puja are being observed today. Worshiping Maa Mahagauri alleviates life's hardships and brings happiness and prosperity.

Special Importance of Kanya Pujan

Kanya Pujan holds special significance on Maha Ashtami. Little girls are considered to be the embodiment of Goddess Durga. Worshiping girls on this day brings happiness, peace, and prosperity to the home. Devotees feed the girls and receive their blessings.

Auspicious Time: Consideration of Auspicious Time

The time between 6:18 am and 7:50 am is considered the most auspicious for Kanya Pujan. Performing puja during this time brings special virtuous results. It is important to know the correct timing so that the puja can be performed properly.

Pay Attention to Direction During Worship

According to astrological beliefs, girls should be seated facing east or north-east (Ishan Kon). Performing puja in the correct direction transmits positive energy and increases the results of the puja.

Method and Offerings for Kanya Pujan

Keeping the home and place of worship clean before Kanya Pujan. Respectfully welcome the girls, wash their feet, and apply tilak (tilak) with roli (rice) and rice. Afterward, offer them puris, gram, and halwa. Finally, complete the puja with their blessings.

Along with devotion, caution is also necessary

Maha Ashtami is not only a day of devotion, but also of ritual and timing. Properly performed worship bestows the blessings of Goddess Durga. Therefore, along with devotion, it is also essential to follow the rules to reap the full benefits of the puja.