DURGA PUJA: Kumari Puja & Shandhi Puja on Maha Ashtami

Maha Ashtami is the eight day of Durga puja and it is regarded as the most auspicious day, as it is believed that goddess Kali appeared from the forehead of Devi Durga and destroy Chanda, Munda, and Raktabija (the Asuras or Demons who were with Mahishasura). Ashtami consist of two most important elements:

KUMARI PUJA:

Kumari puja or Kanya Pujan is a significant part of Ashtami followed by Anjali, Kumari puja is a ritual that involves inviting young girls and worshiping them as a avatar of Devi Durga.

SHANDHI PUJA:

Shandhi pujo is the most important part of Ashtami it is the juncture of Ashtami and Navami tithe. A yagna is performed at this time. Sandhikkhan (Time of 48 minutes on which sandhi puja is performed) is considered to be the glorious time when the idol of Devi Durga got prana (life) and the spirit blessed Rama when he sought Durga’s blessings before his battle with Ravana. During sandhikkhan, 108 lotuses are offered to the goddess and 108 lamps are lit. Sandhi puja muhurta might fall at any time of the day and sandhi puja is done during that time only.


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Deborika Bhattacharjee,

Content Writer,

BONGAIGAON TIMES