Maha Ashtami, also referred to as Durga Ashtami, marks the eighth day of the Durga Puja festival and is celebrated with fervour across India. The festival is particularly prominent in states such as West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, where the spirit of celebration resonates deeply among communities. Durga Ashtami is one of the most important days in the Durga Puja calendar. This is why searches around Durga Ashtami 2024 date begin early on. So, when is Durga Ashtami 2024? or when is Maha Ashtami 2024? What are the rituals and celebrations falling on Day 3 in the Durga Puja calendar? Let's find answers to all. Durga Puja 2024 Start and End Dates in India: When Is Mahalaya, Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami and Bijoya Dashami? Check Date-Wise Details of Bengali Durga Puja.

Maha Ashtami 2024 Date & Significance

This year, Maha Ashtami falls on Friday, October 11, 2024. In West Bengal, Maha Ashtami is observed with immense enthusiasm and reverence. This day is dedicated to Goddess Shakti, an incarnation of Durga, symbolizing her power and the triumph of good over evil. The ten-armed goddess, depicted riding a lion, is honoured through various rituals that reflect her strength and protective nature.

One of the key rituals on this day is the Astra Puja, where the weapons of the goddess are worshipped, accompanied by the recitation of sacred mantras. This ritual not only honours the goddess but also represents her readiness to vanquish evil. Maha Saptami 2024 Date in Durga Puja Calendar: From Rituals to Significance, Know All About the Day That Symbolises the Triumph of Good Over Evil.

Rituals of Maha Ashtami

Maha Ashtami is considered the pinnacle of the Durga Puja festivities, as devotees express their devotion and seek divine blessings to overcome challenges. Here are some of the key rituals associated with Maha Ashtami:

Mahasnan: The festivities begin with a ceremonial bath, known as Mahasnan, for the idol or image of Goddess Durga. This act symbolizes the purification of both mind and body, preparing devotees for worship.

Shodashopachara Puja: Following the bath, the Shodashopachara Puja is performed. During this ritual, various offerings such as flowers, rice, kumkum (vermilion), clothing, jewellery, fruits, and sweets are presented to invoke the goddess's presence.

Pushpanjali: Devotees offer flowers at the feet of the goddess while chanting prayers. This act signifies deep devotion and the seeking of blessings from the divine.

Kumari Puja: This special ritual involves the worship of nine young girls, representing the nine Shaktis (divine energies). The girls, considered embodiments of the goddess, are honoured with a ceremonial puja and served a sumptuous meal afterwards. In some regions, this ritual is observed throughout the nine days of Navratri.

Maha Ashtami serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience embodied by Goddess Durga. As the day unfolds, devotees come together to celebrate their faith, fostering a sense of community and devotion that resonates through the vibrant atmosphere of the festival. The rituals conducted on this day not only honour the goddess but also inspire individuals to seek courage and righteousness in their own lives.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 30, 2024 11:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).